VIDALIA — At least two former co-workers will square off as candidates in the October election for the Seventh Judicial District’s District Attorney.

First Assistant District Attorney Brad Burget has officially announced his candidacy, and Assistant District Attorney Ronnie McMillin confirmed he plans to run for the position.

District Attorney John Johnson, who will have served as DA for 24 years when his term expires, has previously stated publicly that he does not plan to seek re-election.

Burget said he made the decision to run when Johnson informed him he was not going to run again.

Though he will stay at the office until June 7 to work on a case, Burget tendered a letter of resignation to Johnson May 6.

After that, Burget will work at Smith, Taliaferro and Purvis, where he is a partner.

“I am sure the majority of my focus will be out campaigning, meeting people and sharing my ideas about how the DA’s office can be improved,” Burget said.

McMillin said he was caught off guard when the DA made his announcement, but that there was no hesitation on McMillin’s part about running.

“The question is not why I decided to run, but why would I not?” McMillin said. “I’ve been with the DA’s office for 24 years, and I was first ADA for 16 years.”

In the meantime, McMillin said he would continue to work at the DA’s office until closer to when he officially announces his candidacy.

Qualifying for the Oct. 4 election will be July 9 to 11.

The Seventh Judicial District encompasses Catahoula and Concordia Parishes.