Speaker of the Nebraska Legislature Mike Hilgers announced that he will run for attorney general with the endorsements of many prominent Republicans.

Hilgers is looking to replace fellow Republican Doug Peterson, who announced last week that he won’t seek a third term in office.

In a news release, Hilgers said he would “fight against federal overreach, stand with law enforcement, defend our constitution, and protect our communities and families.” He said the Biden administration “has stretched beyond the law.”

Hilgers, who lives in Lincoln, was elected to the Nebraska Legislature in 2016 and became the speaker earlier this year. He works as a private practice lawyer and ran unsuccessfully for attorney general in 2014. He founded the law firm Hilgers Graban, with offices in Lincoln, Omaha and several major cities.

Hilgers enters the race with the endorsements of several major GOP leaders, including Gov. Pete Ricketts, members of Nebraska’s congressional delegation, and former Govs. Dave Heineman and Kay Orr.

Another Republican, Larry Bolinger, has announced plans to seek the office after losing the GOP primary for Nebraska’s 3rd Congressional District in 2020. No Democrats have announced a candidacy.

If Hilgers wins, he would leave an open seat in the Legislature to be filled by the governor. Lawmakers would also have to elect a new speaker.