To view our videos, you need to
enable JavaScript. Learn how.
install Adobe Flash 9 or above. Install now.

Then come back here and refresh the page.

CHARLOTTE – Early Wednesday morning County Commissioner Jim Pendergraph had a room full of applause and support as he announced his intentions to run for the 9th Congressional District.

"The stars just kind of lined up and everywhere I went to try to make a decision said 'Yes.'" said Pendergraph, a Republican.

Congresswoman Sue Myrick announced Tuesday she wouldn't seek re-election and in the past day, the who would run for the 9th District seat has been much talked about.

"Of course the priorities right now are the economy, uncontrolled spending, taxes, government interference and private business," said Pendergraph.

But reporters lobbed questions at him about immigration, in part because of Myrick's tough stance, but also because Pendergraph built his own reputation. The former sheriff admitted fighting illegal immigration is part of his platform.

"Immigration is a huge issue in this district and I think it's a huge issue across the country,” he said.

Meanwhile, Pendergraph will join two other Republicans who intended on facing Myrick in the primaries.

"I felt like we needed somebody who was fiscally more conservative," said Mike Steinberg, a self-proclaimed Republican who leans libertarian.

While Steinberg admits, the game has changed without Myrick in the race, he said the issues are the same – “reducing the size of federal government, reducing the debt and really reining in the runaway expenses because this country is on the brink of bankruptcy, we really are."

Marine Corp Veteran Michael Shaffer announced in January he would seek the Republican 9th District nomination. And with Myrick's retirement official, other candidates are considering or deciding they will seek the office.

Wednesday afternoon, conservative Republican Jon Gauthier announced he would file Monday and run for 9th District. Gauthier makes the fourth official candidate who has announced so far.