(INDIANAPOLIS) – Governor Pence is expected to formally announce his bid for re-election next month. Pence will make the announcement during the Indiana Republican Party’s spring dinner on June 18.

Pence could have his first challenger on the Republican ticket when he runs for re-election in 2016. Indiana businessman Bob Thomas who last week announced he was exploring a run for either Governor or Indiana‘s 3rd Congressional District. Thomas says that he is focusing on the governor’s seat because it is the best position to be in if you‘re goal is to make people’s lives better.

Democrats John Gregg and Sen. Karen Tallian have already formally announced campaigns to run for governor. Superintendent of Public Instruction Glenda Ritz is also considering a campaign.