George Flinn

MEMPHIS, Tenn. - Former congressional candidate George Flinn says he is joining the ranks of challengers to Lamar Alexander in the Republican primary for the U.S. Senate.

The Memphis Commercial-Appeal reports that the radiologist and radio station owner pulled a petition last week to enter the race. The deadline to file petitions to run for office is Thursday.

Flinn is a former county commissioner who made has made largely self-financed congressional bids in the past. In 2010, he spent $3.7 million, and in 2012 he spent $1.6 million. He lost both races.

Flinn told the paper that his candidacy would focus on health care issues.

Alexander, a former two-term governor, is seeking a third term in the Senate. His most prominent challenger so far has been state Rep. Joe Carr of Murfreesboro.