RALEIGH, (AP) — North Carolina Lt. Gov. Walter Dalton is all in for succeeding fellow Democrat and Gov. Beverly Perdue.

Dalton announced Thursday he'll run for governor now that Perdue announced earlier in the day she's not seeking a second term. He's a former Rutherford County senator elected in 2008 to the No. 2 position in the executive branch.

Dalton accused likely Republican nominee Pat McCrory and the Republican leadership of doing "lasting damage" to North Carolina by cutting education and overlooking economic development. He said his campaign is based on a future committed to public education.

Here is the text of Daltion's announcement:

“I believe that our future economy and better jobs depend on our historic commitment to education. After all, education is in North Carolina’s DNA – it's what sets us apart and it's what will determine our future. However, you can’t make progress if you are pointed in the wrong direction. Pat McCrory and the Republican leadership are facing the wrong way by cutting teachers, reducing scholarships and abandoning economic development. They are doing lasting damage to our state. I’ve dedicated my career to improving education at all levels and making North Carolina a great place to do business.

“Today, I'm announcing that I am running for Governor. Lucille and I love this state and we understand tough political races. I am the only candidate who has run and won statewide and I look forward to waging an aggressive campaign. Elections are about choices. As a state we must decide the direction in which we will turn. With this campaign, I choose to look ahead to a brighter future. I choose progress. I choose a future where public education is the foundation of our economy.”

State Rep. Bill Faison is also expected to seek the Democratic nomination, setting up a May primary. Former State Treasurer Richard Moore, Charlotte Mayor Anthony Foxx and Winston-Salem Mayor Allen Joines also are considering potential bids.