Former state Rep. Ben Rodefer will challenge state Sen. John Sapien of Corrales in the Democratic primary.
"I am humbled by the many community leaders who have asked me to serve this district again. I look forward to a spirited campaign with Senator Sapien," Rodefer said in a news release. "Elections are about choices, and I think there is a clear choice for voters to make this year."
Rodefer was elected to the Legislature in 2008 but was defeated in 2010 by Republican David Doyle.
If Rodefer is successful in the primary, he will face Doyle -- who recently announced he's seeking the GOP nomination for the District 9 seat -- once again in November.