Retired Lt. Gen. Ric Sanchez filed the paperwork for a U.S. Senate run, saying he'll seek the Democratic nomination in next year's race to succeed Kay Bailey Hutchison.Here's his press release:

Retired Lt. Gen. Ric Sanchez today filed the paperwork necessary to begin building a campaign to represent Texas in the United States Senate. He released the following statement: “I want to speak plainly about why I am running. Here in Texas, too many families are struggling to get ahead. Jobs are hard to find, our schools simply aren’t good enough and increasing food and gas prices are breaking household budgets. We need to make sure small businesses that drive the economy can grow and prosper. Unfortunately, Washington is mostly focused on scoring partisan points and winning elections. I believe Texas needs a strong, independent voice to address the enormous challenges we are facing -- leadership that focuses on results rather than politics. I’ve spent my entire career serving our country. I can think of no better way to continue my record of public service than to represent Texas in the Senate. Today I filed the paperwork necessary to build a campaign to help change the political environment in Washington, and I will make a more formal announcement in the coming weeks. “As long as exploiting political opportunity for a few in Washington is more important than protecting and expanding opportunity for all, we will not achieve our God-given rights of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. I believe that men and women of good character must work together to build and grow a nation that is secure and at peace and remains dedicated to democratic ideals.” Ric Sanchez is a leader committed to giving back to Texas. A retired three-star general, Sanchez dedicated his life to our nation, rising to become the commander of U.S. forces in Iraq. Throughout his career, he has put service over self. Growing up in South Texas, he earned an ROTC scholarship and committed his life to his country, rising through the ranks to become one of the highest ranking Hispanics in U.S. military history. Sanchez will bring his common-sense approach and his Texas values to the U.S. Senate, where he will fight to make Washington focus on results for Texas.