Burton R. LeFlore has announced his intentions to run for the open seat in the U.S. House of Representatives, 1st Congressional District. This district includes Escambia, Mobile, Baldwin, Clarke and Monroe counties.

LeFlore, who is running as a Democratic candidate, is seeking the seat previously held by Jo Bonner, who resigned Aug. 2. LeFlore is one of two Democratic candidates who have joined the race. There are also nine Republicans and an independent candidate.

LeFlore, of Mobile, is the grandson of John LeFlore, a noted civil rights leader in Alabama. Burton LeFlore works in real estate.

In a press release announcing his candidacy, LeFlore noted that he would especially focus on bringing jobs to south Alabama.

“There are some major industries located here and there are more to come,” LeFlore said. “Jobs are on the radar for District 1 and we need to work to bring about those jobs.”

No Democratic candidate has held the District 1 seat for almost 50 years, but LeFlore said he hopes to break that trend.

“Forty-seven years of Republicans dominating this congressional district is enough,” LeFlore said. “It’s time for a change. It’s time for something new — it’s time for a Democrat.”

The primary election to determine the Democratic candidate is Sept. 24.

If no runoffs are required following the primary election, the general election will be held on Nov. 5. If runoffs are required, they will be held Nov. 5 and the general election will be held Dec. 17.