Experienced Republicans continue to emerge in the race to succeed Republican Rep. Nathan Deal. The latest is Republican state Sen. Lee Hawkins, who told The Gainesville Times Thursday he hopes to add his voice to health care reform from his seat in Congress.

Lee Hawkins

“I’m used to taking care of people, and this health care debate has just been going in the totally wrong direction,” Hawkins, a dentist, told the newspaper. “… I feel a responsibility to work on this issue along with other issues, like our lake issue, so I’ve announced to run for Congress.”

CQ Politics confirmed with Hawkins’ office that the lawmaker is preparing his candidacy for Georgia’s 9th District. The Times reported he will make an official announcement Aug. 4.