Ga. Democrat files paperwork for gubernatorial bid

ATLANTA - A former Georgia lawmaker and DeKalb County commissioner has filed the necessary paperwork to officially begin her campaign for governor.

Connie Stokes said in a statement Thursday that she'll begin her statewide campaign tour in the next few weeks. Stokes, a former senator became the first Democratic candidate to announce a bid for governor in August.

Stokes, a business management consultant from Lithonia, served 10 years in the state Senate and later became a DeKalb County commissioner. Stokes served as floor leader for former Gov. Roy Barnes.

Two Republicans have already announced plans to challenge Deal in a GOP primary.

State Education Superintendent John Barge and Dalton Mayor David Pennington have both entered the race.