DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) — A longtime Republican activist who serves as the head of a pro-ethanol trade group is entering the race for the U.S. House seat being vacated by retiring Rep. Tom Latham. Monte Shaw announced Thursday that he will step down from his role on the GOP State Central Committee so that he can pursue the seat. The 41-year-old Shaw says he must leave because he promised to remain politically neutral while in a party office.

Shaw, an Iowa native who lives in West Des Moines, serves as executive director of the Iowa Renewable Fuels Association. He has worked on GOP campaigns in the past. Shaw says the race presents an opportunity to work for Iowa.

Latham announced last month his plans to retire after finishing his 10th term.