GARY, Ind. (AP) – A state senator from northwestern Indiana says he will continue his campaign for governor rather than seek the congressional seat being given up by Democratic Rep. Pete Visclosky.

Sen. Eddie Melton of Gary announced Friday he is “firmly committed to becoming the next governor of Indiana and fighting to improve the quality of life of every Hoosier.” Melton is one of three candidates for the Democratic nomination to challenge Republican Gov. Eric Holcomb in the 2020 election.

Visclosky announced Wednesday he isn’t seeking reelection in the heavily Democratic district where he’s won since 1984.

Numerous Democrats could enter the congressional race. Those who’ve already announced are Hammond Mayor Thomas McDermott and Frank Mrvan, a Lake County township trustee whose father is a longtime state senator.