Preston Democratic Selectman Timothy Bowles said today he will seek his party's nomination for the 42nd state House of Representatives seat being vacated by four-term incumbent Tom Reynolds, who will run for state Senate.

Bowles, 62, said he has contacted state Democratic officials and party leaders in the district towns of Ledyard, Montville and Preston and believes he has support to seek the nomination at the May 22 district convention.

“Tom Reynolds leaves some mighty big shoes to fill, but I am willing to serve if nominated and elected in November,” Bowles said.

In November, Bowles narrowly lost to incumbent Preston Republican First Selectman Robert Congdon for the second consecutive municipal election. Bowles remains on the Board of Selectman and said he would at least complete his second term as a selectman if elected as a state legislator.