Columbus - Ohio State Senator Charlie Wilson wants to fight for southern Ohio.

Wilson announced Tuesday that he will seek the seat in Congress that U.S. Representative Ted Strickland is vacating.

Wilson, a state legislator since 1997, said his work the past nine years in Columbus for Ohioans, and his experience as a successful small-businessman, will help him be an effective Congressman.

"As your voice in Washington, I will fight to rebuild communities hard-hit by lost jobs, fight to make our schools world-class and fight to make health care accessible and affordable," Wilson said.

The state senator representing the 30th district vowed to wage an aggressive campaign, criss-crossing the 6th congressional district, which includes parts or all of Mahoning, Columbiana, Jefferson, Belmont, Noble, Monroe, Washington, Athens, Meigs, Gallia, Lawrence and Scioto counties.

In addition to serving as state senator, he owns Wilson Funeral and Furniture Co., Inc., and Wilson Realty Company in Bridgeport.