Essex County’s Republican committee has endorsed Dan Stec, currently a state assemblyman, to be the region’s next state senator in Albany.

Stec,  R-Queensbury, was first elected in 2012 to represent the Assembly district that includes Essex County. He is now vying to succeed longtime Sen. Betty Little, R-Queensbury, who is not running for reelection this November.

So far, Stec is one of three declared candidates running for the Senate seat. Kevin Beary of Colton is also running as a Republican, and Clinton County Treasurer Kimberly Davis is running as a Democrat.

“Essex County Republicans have been thrilled with Dan Stec’s representation in the Assembly the last seven years,” Essex County Republican Chairman John Gereau said in a statement. “His hard work, responsiveness and ability to get results are a few of the reasons the Republican committee overwhelmingly endorsed his candidacy for Senate tonight.”

“Dan Stec has been a wonderful partner in the state Legislature advocating for Essex County,” county Board of Supervisors Chairman Shaun Gillilland said. “All my fellow town supervisors and I have been impressed by his dedication to and love of the North Country. He has been a great assemblyman, and he will be an amazing senator.”