Former United States Senator and Mount Vernon resident George Allen (R-Va.) has announced his plans this afternoon to run for re-election in 2012. 

Allen, a longtime Mount Vernon resident, signed the formal declaration of candidacy this afternoon. He will run against current Senator Jim Webb (D-Va.), who won the 2006 election. Allen first notified supporters via an e-mail that included a link to a video on his website.

“It’s time for an American comeback with leaders who listen to ‘We The People,’ adhere to foundational principles, rein in spending and start creating opportunities for more jobs," said Allen in a statement released on his website. "To get there we’ll need to listen to Virginia voices – and fight to repeal the government mandated healthcare plan, pass a balanced budget amendment and line-item veto, and reduce our families’ energy costs by unleashing our American resources and creativity."

Allen left the Senate in 2006 after representing Virginia for six years. Prior to his Senate term, he served as the governor of Virginia from 1994 until 2000.

Allen plans an official kick-off tour slated for late 2011.