LITCHFIELD — Rachel Sukeforth, a lifelong town resident, has announced her candidacy for the House of Representatives from District 80.

That seat is currently held by Melvin Newendyke, R-Litchfield.

“I will be a consistent and strong voice for the residents of Litchfield, Monmouth and Wales in Augusta,” Sukeforth said in a written statement. “I know how hard the past few years have been economically and it’s time we turn a corner and look toward building a prosperous future for Maine.”

She said her focus will be on fostering good paying, long-term jobs, rebuilding her fellow Mainers' faith in their economic security, and proving that state government does indeed work for and benefits all Mainers.

Sukeforth attended Litchfield public schools and graduated from Hebron Academy. She received her Bachelor of Science degree in environmental science from Hobart and William Smith Colleges in Geneva, N.Y. She is employed by Woods End Laboratories in Mount Vernon.

A campaign kickoff celebration will be held at 3 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 12, at the Route 197 Diner in Litchfield. Coffee and desserts will be available.

The event is open to the public and all are welcome to attend.