NORTHAMPTON — Daniel Carey has submitted nomination papers for Hampshire County clerk of courts, moving him a step closer to getting his name on the ballot for the Democratic nomination.

Carey, a Democratic state representative from Easthampton since 2018, is looking to succeed Harry Jekanowski as clerk magistrate of the courts. Jekanowski is stepping down this year after almost 30 years in the job.

“Dan has collected almost twice the number of signatures required, including signatures from every one of the 20 cities and towns of Hampshire County,” campaign manager Mike Messer said in a statement.

“Local city and town clerks have already certified the 500 signatures necessary for the office of Clerk of Courts.”

Carey said in a statement that he appreciated the support he’s received so far.

“We have been having a blast collecting signatures, meeting with voters, and crisscrossing the county,” he said. “I’m looking forward to continuing to talk with folks about this important position.”

State Sen. Jo Comerford, D-Northampton, praised her legislative colleague as honest and dependable.

“He believes that justice should work for everyone, that government should work for everyone, that everyone approaching our legal system should have a fair shake,” she said at his campaign kickoff.

Carey serves on the Joint Committee on the Judiciary. Before joining the Legislature, he served as an assistant district attorney and a district court administrator for Northwestern District Attorney David E. Sullivan. He also served previously on Easthampton’s City Council and School Committee.