State Sen. Dianne Byrum filed the paperwork Thursday to run for a seat in the state House.

“I’m forced to leave the Senate because of term limits,” the Onondaga Democrat said. “But what encouraged me was the excitement and the comments that the people in the district gave me.”

The district seat is open because of redrawn district lines.

If successful, Byrum would represent south Lansing, Holt, Mason and most of rural Ingham County.

The area is represented by Rep. Paul DeWeese, R-Williamston, and Rep. Virg Bernero, D-Lansing. DeWeese will be seeking a seat in the state Senate this coming election.

Byrum said she plans to focus on health care, education and technology.

Byrum ran for a seat in the U.S. House in 2000, but was narrowly defeated by now U.S. Rep. Mike Rogers, R-Brighton.

Ed Sarpolus, vice president of EPIC/MRA polling, said a close race could be a sign of a strong race by Byrum.

“The key is if she is liked and respected by the public,” he said. “And based on her results against Mike Rogers she would be considered the favorite.”

Sarpolus said despite the Republican turnout for DeWeese last election, Byrum shouldn’t be running in an unfriendly area.

“The district has shown that it will vote for a Democrat and it will vote for a woman,” he said. “They voted for Debbie Stabenow before.”

State Rep. Larry Julian said despite the effects of a Byrum victory - the loss of a Republican seat - working with Byrum wouldn’t bother him.

The Lennon Republican said he would work with whomever wins the seat. He also said despite Byrum’s strong showing in the U.S. House race, the Michigan House seat hasn’t been decided, yet.

“My initial reaction is that I think these seats are open to anyone,” he said. “No matter whatever seat is open, to whatever person who wants it, it’s a matter of who works hard to get there.”