A Bowling Green state representative announced his candidacy for governor this morning at the Warren County courthouse.

House Speaker Jody Richards, D-Bowling Green, said he would run for the state’s top executive spot. His running mate is John Y. Brown III, the son of former Gov. John Y. Brown Jr.

Richards said education would be a top priority if he becomes governor. Richards has a long history with Western as a former journalism faculty member and former College Heights Herald adviser.

“My love and devotion for Western has never waned,” Richards said.

The speaker said he would continue working with Western to get more projects and more funding to enhance the university.

Richards has served in the state House since 1976 and has been speaker since 1995. Richards owns Superior Books in Bowling Green.

Richards and Brown will be campaigning throughout Kentucky today and tomorrow.

Reach Alex Fontana at news@wkuherald.com.

Check Thursday’s Herald for more on this story.