CANTON -- Philip Paige of Madrid resigned from his position as assistant county administrator on Friday with plans to run for the 118th Assembly District seat, which is currently held by Republican Marc W. Butler, Newport.

“The communities of the 118th District deserve a full-time candidate and assemblyman,” Paige said in a prepared statement. “It's my intention to prove myself as the most qualified, knowledgeable, and energetic candidate in this race.”

After almost a quarter of a century, Butler announced last month that he does not plan to see reelection in 2018. The 118th Assembly District includes towns from Norfolk and Madrid south to Colton, Clifton and Fine.

“I'll be presenting my vision for turning our regions’ economic decline around,” Paige said. “With a set of detailed conservative policies, we can and will find our best days lie ahead. Reversing the decline starts by empowering the private sector through property tax cuts—achievable only through mandate relief—and throwing our overly complex income and corporate tax law—written by and for the special interests in Albany—right in the trash bin. A broadened tax base, dramatically reduced rates, and common sense regulations will allow us to maximize the potential of our communities.”

Paige planned to official announce his candidacy at 9 a.m. today at the St. Lawrence County Courthouse steps with other announcements taking place across the district during the day.

“Turning our regions’ economy around is going to take a concerted effort on our part—we must elect and support public servants, not career politicians. I support term limits, and will fight to enact them into law, but unlike the standard candidate, I'm also going to walk the walk and impose term limits (10 years maximum) on myself. It’s time for our representatives to lead by example and get the job done.”