INDEPENDENCE, Ohio -- A local politician is celebrating President's Day by announcing his run for Ohio's Secretary of State.

Jim Trakas is a lifelong resident of Independence and he's a four-term state representative. He's been in politics for many years, ranging from City Council to chairman of Cuyahoga County's Republican Party.

Trakas said as Ohio's chief election official, his goal is to keep voting in Ohio fair and equal, NewsChannel5 reported.

He said he's going to be pro-active in getting more people to vote and give Ohioian's more confidence as they head to the polls.

Trakas also said he's ready to take over where current Secretary of State Ken Blackwell left off.

"I can say this, Secretary Blackwell had his style and I would have a different style and a different approach. I think many decisions he made were backed up by law, which is important. I think the federal courts backed the decisions the secretary made. Maybe it was just the manner and style which they were presented that brought people some concern," Trakas said.

He said his plan also includes improving the quality of Ohio's schools and how they're funded and improving tax and health care plans.

He'll make the formal announcement of his candidacy Monday in Columbus.