ONEONTA, N.Y. (WKTV) - Senator James Seward (R) has announced his bid for re-election for the 51st state senate.

According to Seward, he has more than 4,400 signatures on a nominating petition.

“I am truly humbled and energized by the outpouring of support I have received for my candidacy,” said Seward. “As I meet with people from across the nine county district I am excited to hear the widespread level of support- it is the enthusiastic encouragement from constituents that keeps me going.”

The newly-formed 51st senate district is made up of all or parts of nine counties including: Cayuga, Chenango, Cortland, Delaware, Herkimer, Otsego, Schoharie, Tompkins, and Ulster. Republican committees in each of the counties that offered a formal endorsement have backed Seward.

“Much of my current district is contained within these boundaries - the main additions come in Delaware County, which borders my home county of Otsego where residents share many of the same concerns, and in Cayuga County, where I have served previously and welcome the chance to become reacquainted with many old friends.

Ithaca Attorney Howard Leib, a Democrat, has announced his plans to run against Seward.