Former chief public defender running for Hennepin County attorney

Former Hennepin County chief public defender Mary Moriarty is running to be the county's top prosecutor.

What she's saying: Moriarty announced her campaign to succeed retiring County Attorney Mike Freeman on Twitter Monday, calling for "transformational reform in the criminal legal system."

State of play: Expect a crowded race next year. Several other candidates, including House Majority leader Ryan Winkler, are weighing a run.

Background: Moriarty, the first woman to serve as the county's chief public defender, received a $300,000 settlement this year after a clash with leadership resulted in her contract not being renewed.

• Her public profile rose during the trial of former Minneapolis officer Derek Chauvin, when she provided legal analysis for local and national TV coverage.