Christie Vilsack, former first lady of Iowa, released a statement Wednesday announcing her intention to move in May to Ames to “continue to explore the possibility of representing Iowa in the U.S. House of Representatives.”

This would make her the first Democratic challenger to current Rep. Steve King.

The 2010 U.S. Census showed slower growth in Iowa compared to other states, resulting in the loss of one representative in the U.S. House. The redistricting plan signed into law Tuesday by Gov. Terry Branstad eliminated the 5th Congressional District.

Ames now falls within the 4th Congressional District.

King also announced his intention to run for the House seat Friday in the new 4th District.

King said in a statement he is “pledged to represent all the people of the 5th District” and that he will continue to do so to the best of his ability. He also said he has “strong and effective relationships in the current 5th District” and is “looking forward to establishing similar relationships with residents of the new 4th District” as the 2012 election approaches.

Vilsack said listening to Iowans about issues they are concerned about is of great importance to her.

“More than anything, this should be a discussion about Iowa values — the value of work, the value of opportunity and the value of community,” Vilsack said.

James McCormick, professor and chairman of the political science department, expects Vilsack running will make for a very competitive race in the new district.

“It will be a very expensive campaign on both parts,” McCormick said. “There will be lots of outside interest, both within and outside of the district.”

McCormick also said that despite Vilsack’s earlier high-profile status as first lady, she is going to have to reintroduce herself to much of the district. He also expects that her and U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack’s — her husband — Washington connections will bring in a lot of prominent politicians.

However, King won’t be without big-name support either.

“Rep. King’s ties with the Tea Party will also bring in a lot of politicians and campaign money,” McCormick said.