State Rep. David Hawk, of Greeneville, has filed a qualifying petition to run for re-election in the 5th State House of Representatives District in the Aug. 5 state Republican primary.

The 5th District includes all of Unicoi County, as well as Greeneville and those portions of Greene County to the east and north of the city.

Hawk, 41, a businessman and former clothing retailer, is seeking his fifth two-year term. He is a member of the House Education Committee, chairman of the subcommittee on higher education, and a member of the Joint Select Committee on Education, made up of state senators and representatives.

Hawk is also a member of the Conservation & Environment Committee.

Asked why he is seeking re-election, Hawk said, "I've truly enjoyed the challenge of serving the people of Greeneville and Greene County, and I look forward to continuing the work that I've begun."

Greene County Administrator of Elections Donna Burgner said Hawk turned in his petition late Thursday afternoon, and it was verified Friday morning.

The deadline to file a qualifying petition for the state primary is noon on Thursday, April 1.