Nicole Wadsworth, a commercial real estate developer in north Alabama and wife of a state representative, has announced she is running for the Republican nomination for lieutenant governor.

Wadsworth becomes the third announced candidate for lieutenant governor in next year's Republican primary.

Secretary of State Wes Allen and Opelika pastor Dean Odle had previously announced.

There is no incumbent. Lt. Gov. Will Ainsworth is term-limited and announced this week he has decided not to run for governor and will return to the private sector.

Wadsworth announced her campaign Thursday in Montgomery.

Wadsworth is from Huntsville.

In a news release, Wadsworth stressed her experience and credentials as an economic developer and said she had been to every county in Alabama at least 25 times.

"Every Alabamian deserves the opportunity to have a good job without having to leave the place they call home," Wadsworth said.

"We must strengthen workforce development so every Alabamian - from the high school student to the veteran - has a clear path to a good paying job."

Wadsworth said her priorities include business recruitment and retention, statewide infrastructure improvements, the expansion of telehealth in rural areas, a quality and skilled workforce, defending the unborn, promoting public safety, and fostering a business climate that cuts red tape for job creators and positions Alabama for growth.

"We must ensure that every community has a seat of the table. That means working together businesses, educators, law enforcement, local leaders, and citizens - to build an Alabama that works for us all," Wadsworth said.

Wadsworth's husband is Rep. Tim Wadsworth, R-Arley, a lawyer who is vice chair of the Alabama House Judiciary Committee. They have a college-age son and daughter.