Ex-Miss America Winner To Run For Downstate Congressional Seat

(CBS) -- An Illinois woman who once sat on Miss America's throne now wants a seat in Congress.

Erika Harold who reigned as Miss America ten years ago is now going into politics. Harold, a Harvard-trained lawyer says she is challenging freshmen incumbent Rodney Davis in next year's Republican Primary. She made her announcement at Urbana High School and on her website.

As Miss America, Harold had a platform against bullying and stirred some controversy with a message promoting sexual abstinence.

In a statement, Congressman Davis who was just elected last November, says that it is unfortunate that in today's political environment campaigns never end. He says he is focusing on his work in Congress.