Democrat Jim Barber on Monday is set to announce his bid for the 51st Senate District in central New York.

Barber is running for the seat currently held by Republican Sen. James Seward, which includes Cortland, Otsego, and Schoharie counties and parts of Cayuga, Chenango, Delaware, Herkimer, Tompkins, and Ulster counties.

Barber, a fifth-generation farmer, has worked for both the federal and state governments, including seven years as the state executive director for the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Farm Service Agency and for two years as the state Department of Agriculture and Markets special assistant to the commissioner.

“For generations, my family has been proud to live in this region, to run our family farm, and to invest in our communities,” Barber said in a statement. “I am going to bring that work ethic, love of community, and ability to get results to Albany as this region’s next state senator. Over the coming months, I look forward to discussing important issues with residents and small business owners throughout the 51 st Senate District and earning their support for my state Senate campaign.”

His campaign plans a formal launch event at his family farm on Dec. 14.