Butler County Commissioner Jim Eckstein today announced he will run for re-election.

Eckstein, 58, of Butler Township is vying for one of two Democratic nominations in the May 19 primary.

According to Eckstein, he's seeking a second term in office to continue representing the man on the street.

“I feel like I can relate to the working class and small business,” he said.

Eckstein said he brings experience and knowledge to the table.

He cited being the first Butler County commissioner to complete the County Commissioners Association of Pennsylvania Academy of Excellence and graduate from CCAP's Advanced Academy.

Eckstein also is the first county commissioner in the state to be certified through the Pennsylvania Association of Public Employee Retirement Systems.

Eckstein said taxpayers can rely on him to remain consistent.

“It's one thing to say you'll do it, but it's another to carry it out,” he said.

Eckstein said he maintained his stance against the privatization of the Sunnyview Nursing and Rehabilitation Center and the construction of a new office building next to the government center.

According to Eckstein, he represents an independent voice rejecting the political clique.

He said he would limit campaign donations to a maximum of $150 per person.

Eckstein lives in the township with his wife, Stacy. They have three children: Kira, 23, Ian, 21, and Wesley 18.