Former state Sen. Kevin Raye announced late last week that he is running for Maine’s open 2nd District, according to a local newspaper, becoming the fourth GOP candidate in an increasingly crowded primary contest.

This is Raye’s third congressional bid: He tried twice, unsuccessfully, to beat Democratic Rep. Michael H. Michaud, once in 2002 and again last cycle. Michaud is vacating the 2nd District to run for governor in the Pine Tree State.

“I feel like it’s the right time,” Raye told the Portland Press Herald.

Raye joins Assistant House Minority Leader Alex Willette, former state Treasurer Bruce Poliquin and Navy veteran Blaine Richardson in the Republican primary.

State Sens. Emily Cain and Troy Jackson, as well as former Navy officer Alden Smith, are seeking the Democratic nomination.

The 2nd District seat is rated a Democrat Favored contest by Rothenberg Political Report/Roll Call.