Former Culture Minister Dale Butler today announced he will officially launch his campaign to be Premier later this month.

The backbencher — who revealed his intentions to go for the top job seven months ago — said on his Facebook page this morning: “Just thought I would let you know that on August 23rd I will announce where I will launch my campaign to be Party Leader and Premier of Bermuda on August 24th.”

It follows favourite Paula Cox’s official announcement yesterday, and former Energy Minister Terry Lister’s last week.

Mr. Butler has long been one of Bermuda’s most popular parliamentarians, but he acknowledges much of his support comes from outside the Progressive Labour Party, giving him an uphill task when party delegates pick their new leader at October’s annual conference.

For more, see tomorrow’s Royal Gazette.