This spring, Pete Hoekstra announced he would not seek the Republican nomination for U.S. Senate.  Today, Hoekstra has changed his mind and filed papers to officially launch a campaign for U.S. Senate.

Hoekstra is a resident of Holland and served in the U.S. House of Representatives for West Michigan from 1993 - 2011.  He says pressure from supporters and Republican leaders helped change his mind. Hoekstra further explains his decision:

After a good deal of reflection, I've decided that I cannot sit on the sidelines while the President and U.S. Senate mortgage our children and grandchildren's future.  For these reasons, I have made the decision to file the appropriate paperwork to build an organization and begin a campaign for the U.S. Senate.

If Hoekstra wins the Republican nomination, he will face a tough challenge against two-term Democratic Senator Debbie Stabenow.  Stabenow's campaign already has more than $4 million, while Hoekstra raised under $2.5 million for his run for the Republican nomination for governor in 2010.

Hoekstra talks about replacing Stabenow:

Over the last couple of years the spending in Washington has spun out of control.  Michigan needs a U.S. Senator who will cut spending without raising taxes and help create jobs.  Replacing Debbie Stabenow means we'll be one step closer to the economic recovery our state's working families deserve.

The race for U.S. Senate in Michigan 2012 has already begun and it is sure to be an interesting one.

More From Mix 95.7