At least nine Democratic candidates are already running to replace Rep. Ty Harrell who resigned Sunday amid a campaign finance investigation.

Wake County Democratic Party Chairman Jack Nichols said nine candidates have declared so far for the District 41 seat:

-- Chris Heagarty, former director of the N.C. Center for Voter Education

-- Janet Schanzenbach, lobbyist for mental health programs and rehabilitation facilities

-- Gale Adcock, Cary Town Council member

-- John Shaw, a retired electrical engineer and Democratic Party activist

-- Matt Danielson, former county Democratic Party vice chair

-- Linda Gunter, former state senator and lobbyist for N.C. Association of Educators

-- Christopher Headen, executive director of Meals on Wheels of Durham

-- Steve Rao, director of business development at Datacraft Solutions

-- Terry L. "Doc" Thome

Democratic Party precinct chairs and party leaders within the district will meet by Oct. 20 and vote on Harrell’s replacement. When a lawmaker resigns, his or her party selects the replacement, and the governor must appoint that person.