When voters ousted John Lovick as Snohomish County executive three months ago, it marked his first loss in 13 elections.

As much as it hurt, he said no one should write his political obituary quite yet.

That’s because he’s not done.

Lovick announced Monday he’s running for the state legislative seat occupied by his friend and fellow Democrat, Rep. Hans Dunshee of Snohomish. If successful, Lovick would return to Olympia where he served as a lawmaker from 1999-2007.

“I’m just really itching to get back in the game,” Lovick said Tuesday. “You lose elections. I lost the last one. That’s the way it is.”

But the seat’s not vacant, at least not yet.

Dunshee is pursuing an appointment to the Snohomish County Council and if appointed, is expected to give up his seat in the 44th Legislative District. Lovick expressed absolute confidence it will play out that way.

Meanwhile, Republican Party leaders say they can win the seat in 2016 and the odds improve if no incumbent is competing. There’s no GOP candidate yet.

Marysville City Councilman Rob Toyer, who lost narrowly to Dunshee in 2014, might try again. Others considering a run are said to be waiting until it’s clearer who the Democratic candidate is going to be.

Herald writer Noah Haglund contributed to this report.

Political reporter Jerry Cornfield’s blog, The Petri Dish, is at www.heraldnet.com. Contact him at 360-352-8623; jcornfield@heraldnet.com and on Twitter at @dospueblos