Democratic Senator Elizabeth Warren has announced her plans to run for the US presidency in 2020.
She's confirmed she's forming an exploratory committee - a key first step for those hoping to fundraise for a White House bid.
It makes the Massachusetts senator the most prominent Democrat to announce 2020 plans, with 13 months still to go until the first major primary vote in Iowa.
In a video to supporters, Senator Warren said: "I’ve spent my career getting to the bottom of why America’s promise works for some families, but others, who work just as hard and slip through the cracks into disaster.
"What I’ve found is terrifying: these aren’t cracks families are falling into, they’re traps. America’s middle class is under attack... billionaires and big corporations decided they wanted more of the pie, and they enlisted politicians to cut 'em a fatter slice.
"[But] if we organise together, if we fight together, if we persist together... we can win. We can and we will."
Every person in America should be able to work hard, play by the same set of rules, & take care of themselves & the people they love. That’s what I’m fighting for, & that’s why I’m launching an exploratory committee for president. I need you with me: https://t.co/BNl2I1m8OX pic.twitter.com/uXXtp94EvY
— Elizabeth Warren (@ewarren) December 31, 2018
The Democratic primary is expected to see a crowded field - with high-profile politicians such as Joe Biden and Bernie Sanders among the expected front-runners at this early stage.
Other senators reported to be considering a bid include Kamala Harris, Cory Booker and Kirstin Gillibrand.
However, other less well known nominees are also expected to run, including officials such as mayors and governors.
Beto O'Rourke - who put in an unsuccessful but surprisingly competitive Senate bid against Ted Cruz in Texas last month - has been tipped as another potential candidate.
Whoever is chosen is likely to go up against Donald Trump - although the US President himself could face a Republican primary contest.
Senator Warren is considered one of the more progressive Democratic senators.
While one of the most established politicians likely to seek the final nomination, she's also likely to face criticism - including over her controversial claims of Native American heritage.
Donald Trump has attacked Senator Warren as 'Pocahontas' as a result of her claim.
