US Senator John Edwards has said he plans to seek the Democratic Party nomination for the 2004 presidential elections.

Democratic contenders

Howard Dean: Vermont governor since 1991; keen on health, green issues John Edwards: First-term senator for N Carolina; millionaire former trial lawyer John Kerry: Massachusetts senator in third term; Vietnam veteran

The millionaire former lawyer made the announcement on US television, saying he would be a "champion for regular people".

Senator Edwards, a first time senator, is the third Democratic politician to declare his intention to contest the party ticket.

The way was cleared after 2000 presidential candidate Al Gore said last month that he would not stand next year.

No surprise

Speaking on NBC television network, Senator Edwards said he was setting up an exploratory committee to assist his presidential bid.

Other likely runners

Tom Daschle: South Dakota senator since 1986; Senate majority leader Dick Gephardt: Missouri congressman; recently quit as House Democratic leader Joseph Lieberman: Connecticut senator elected in 1988; ran for vice-president in 2000

The North Carolina senator offered few policy ideas, but promised to be "a champion for regular people in the Oval Office every day".

Senator Edwards told guests at a party on Wednesday night that he would stand, indicating his campaign would focus on civil rights, the Associated Press news agency reported.

His announcement was widely expected, after he criticised US President George W Bush's tax policy and called for a new intelligence agency in a speech in December.

Public appeal

Observers say Senator Edwards' appeal seems to be that he is new and untainted by scandal.

Earnest and telegenic, Senator Edwards made his money as a courtroom lawyer.

As a senator, he has specialised in issues affecting people's daily lives, like health.

Senator Edwards joins Vermont Governor Howard Dean and Massachusetts Senator John Kerry, who have also declared their intention to run.

Connecticut Senator Joe Lieberman and Senate Democratic leader Tom Daschle are also expected to seek the party nomination.