Two candidates have launched bids to replace Allen West as chairman of the Republican Party of Texas.

Following West’s announcement that he would be stepping down from his role this summer as he considers either a statewide or congressional campaign for 2022, two candidates launched their bids to seek his seat. Former State Rep. Matt Rinaldi launched his bid for West’s seat on Friday, followed by an announcement David Covey, an oil and gas consultant and party county chairman from Orange, who launched his bid on Saturday.

Covey and Rinaldi are perhaps just the first of several candidates who will enter the contest, as rumors have circulated regarding other party officials who might seek West’s job.

The replacement for West will be selected by members of the State Republican Executive Committee during a meeting on July 11.