NEW BERN, Craven County — he field to fill the spot in Congress left open by the death of Walter Jones has grown by two candidates on Monday.

Dr. Greg Murphy made his announcement Monday morning. He made the announcement in a press release and formally announced the news Monday morning at Greenville Town Common. He is currently serving in the N.C. State House.

Also on Monday, Jeff Moore of Carteret County made his announcement via press release. He is a small businessman who also describes himself as a "government and market watchdog."

Murphy is vocal about his Christian faith and his desire to hold the federal government accountable in managing the budget He also said he is open about his support for securing America's borders.

"One of the greatest issues facing our country today is illegal immigration," Murphy told NewsChannel 12's Merrilee Moore during a campaign stop on Monday in New Bern. "Our president campaigned on that issue and he is keeping his word.

"The people of Eastern North Carolina and the people in our country overwhelmingly support his initiatives in trying to secure our borders and so do I."

Moore also said in his press release he works as a geo-political risk adviser who offers expert consulting on international affairs and capital markets. His work on politics and markets has appeared on Fox Business, CNBC, CNBC Tokyo, and the BBC.

"Washington desperately needs a heaping dose of Eastern North Carolina values," Moore said. "That's why I'm running to represent the third district -- to make sure the good people from the coast of North Carolina have a strong voice in D.C.

"I was raised in this district, soaking up the history, culture, and values of Eastern North Carolina. I've always been proud to call this place home because I am fully invested in those values. Unfortunately, our values are under attack."

Murphy and Moore now make six Republican candidates in the field. The others include State Rep. Michael Speciale of New Bern, Rep. Phil Shepard of Onslow County, Onslow County businessman Phil Law and Vice Chairwoman of the N.C. Republican Party Michele Nix.

It is up to Gov. Roy Cooper to calla special election to fill the vacant Congressional seat.