Jim Gilmore has launched his presidential bid for the US presidency.

The former Virginia governor joins the 16 other Republicans vying for the White House.

Although Jim Gilmore intends to officially announce his campaign in August, he filed the necessary paperwork with the Federal Election Commission on July 29.

It is unclear whether Jim Gilmore will join the other Republicans in a series of forums on Fox News next week.

The top 10 candidates, based on national poll results, will appear in the main debate, but Fox News will air an earlier forum featuring the remaining candidates.

Based on recent polling, Jim Gilmore is unlikely to qualify for the main debate.

A former army intelligence officer, Jim Gilmore served as Virginia governor for one term from 1998 to 2002.

Jim Gilmore briefly ran for president in 2007, but his campaign folded after it failed to raise enough money and support in early primary races.

He told the Richmond Times-Dispatch earlier this month that his campaign will focus on foreign policy issues.

Jim Gilmore told the publication: “I don’t think we’re addressing the threat to the country.

“I bring to the table experience that others don’t have.”