Maya Rockeymoore Cummings has made her intention to run for the Maryland congressional seat previously occupied by her late husband Elijah Cummings.
She announced the move during an exclusive interview on MSNBC.
Ms Cummings, the chairperson of the Maryland Democratic Party, said that she has what it takes to succeed her husband, having learnt from Elijah Cummings.
"I believe very strongly that I have the background and the focus and the commitment and the ability to take the reins and to make a good run for this seat," she said during the MSNBC interview. "I fought right along Elijah for the last 12 years."
The primaries will be held on 4, February with the general election being held on 28 April.
I've been on this path for fighting for the soul of our democracy, for fighting for health care, education, for a better America for all," Rockeymoore Cummings said. "He wanted me to continue this fight and I'm going to continue this fight and run the race and prayerfully win, " she added.
Elijah Cummings died on 17, October after what was described as long-standing health complications.
He was at the forefront of the impeachment inquiry against the president of the United States of America Donald Trump.