A Cape Girardeau school administrator publicly announced his candidacy for county auditor Saturday.

Pete Frazier, an assistant principal and former government teacher at Central High School, told a large crowd at the GOP Pig Roast in Cape County Park Saturday that he'll seek the office held by David Ludwig. Frazier is currently treasurer of the county Republican Central Committee.

Frazier said his experience with budgets as a school administrator and in organization memberships has prepared him for the seat. Frazier, who lost the party nomination for 158th District state representative to Nathan Cooper in 2004, said he had reached a career crossroads after five years as a school administrator and felt now was the time to pursue a career in politics.

Current auditor David Ludwig said he was surprised by Frazier's public announcement, and that he's made no plans yet on whether he will run for office next year. Ludwig said it may be several months before he makes a decision on whether to seek re-election.

-- Southeast Missourian