Republican State Sen. Tony Hwang announced he will be running for Fairfield first selectman this morning.

He joins the race for former First Selectman Bill Gerber's seat who died of complications from a brain tumor last month.

Acting First Selectman Christine Vitale said she is interested in filling the job permanently.

Fairfield's other remaining selectman, Republican Brenda Kupchick, failed to endorse the idea opening up the possibility for Hwang to run.

However, 5% of registered voters have to sign a petition for a special election.

Right now, Democratic town leaders are supposed to appoint a Democrat to the position by Aug. 25.