Jen Tooker, the former Westport Republican first selectman, announced Friday that she is seeking the Republican nomination for state comptroller.

Tooker said she is running to serve as an independent watchdog for taxpayers, citing rising daily expenses, energy costs and property taxes facing Connecticut families and businesses.

“The comptroller’s job is to make sure the state treats your tax dollars with the same discipline you must use,” Tooker said in a statement. “I’m running to be the independent watchdog who protects taxpayers, demands answers, and makes sure the government earns back your trust.”

Tooker previously campaigned for governor but dropped out of that race.

She is challenging Democratic state Comptroller Sean Scanlon.

Tooker has more than 14 years of experience in elected office and nearly 25 years in business.