Former Rep. Danny Guice has thrown his support behind his cousin, who is one of the candidates seeking to fill the House seat he left vacant.

Republican businessman Jeff Guice announced his candidacy on Monday on the steps of the Jackson County Courthouse.

Danny Guice resigned from the post earlier this month and accepted an appointment to the Mississippi Parole Board. A special election has been set for Sept. 23 by Gov. Haley Barbour. William “Bill” Kulick and Michael Santobianco have also qualified for the race.

Danny Guice said in a news release that Jeff Guice is a capable, “conservative man” who has his wholehearted endorsement.

District 114 includes portions of St. Martin, Oceans Springs and Vancleave, as well as parts of Harrison County.