Jack C. Jackson, Jr., a member of the Navajo Nation, announced his candidacy for the Arizona Legislature on Monday.

Jackson wants to represent Legislative District 2 in the state Senate. He previously represented the district in the state House until he was named executive director of the Arizona Commission of Indian Affairs in 2005. Currently, he has serves on the Navajo Nation Gaming Enterprise Board.

“Our state faces some tough challenges,” Jackson said in a press release. “Our budget is out of balance, our education system is being decimated and tribal communities are being hit especially hard."

Jackson's father, Jack C. Jackson, Sr., used to represent the district in the state Senate. The elder Jackson retired and now serves as vice chairman of the Dine Development Corporation, a tribal entity.

"My father worked tirelessly for twenty years addressing similar issues. I can no longer sit idly by watching his legacy get dismantled. I am once again compelled to continue the fight for our community and our state," Jackson Jr., said in the press release.

The district is currently represented by Sen. Albert Hale (D), also a tribal member.