Kathy Watson has announced she will run for National Republican Committeewoman. The spot is being vacated by Karen Raye, who has decided to resign.

Watson, a former state party chair, said in her announcement that she was inspired to run by the renewed enthusiasm by party activists.

“I have worked on elections for the last 30 years and I believe that it is that experience which will provide me with the unique insight in helping the Republican National Committee understand that their efforts need to be geared toward assisting county and municipal committees throughout Maine.  Elections are won at the local level.  They are won by recruiting great candidates and then working hard to get them elected,” Watson wrote.

She said she has worked with political candidates on all levels, and in that time she’s helped the party elect a Republican president and a Republican Maine Senate President. Support came from grassroots activities.

“I want to continue working with the Republican National Committee and our delegation to build upon our base of support.  I will work diligently with candidates, activists and donors to make sure we have the resources necessary to pick up seats in this election cycle and beyond,” she wrote.