Ending months of speculation, Hillary Rodham Clinton announced via social media that she will run for the presidency in 2016. In the announcement posted on YouTube, Clinton said: “Everyday Americans need a champion, and I want to be that champion.”

Clinton, 67, will be the third major party candidate to announce an official 2016 campaign. Should she win, the former first lady would be the first U.S. female president.

The former secretary of state is making her second bid for the White House. In 2008 she withdrew from the contest after Barack Obama took the lead in the primary elections.

A campaign insider told CNN that following the announcement Clinton will travel to New Hampshire and Iowa to woo voters. Both are paramount to presidential races as early-voting states. In 2008 Clinton finished third in Iowa.

A recent Quinnipiac University poll suggests a tight race for Clinton in Virginia, Colorado, and Iowa. Those swing states would be crucial for the Democratic frontrunner. The polling suggests a slight weakening in Clinton’s lead in comparison to her potential GOP contenders since polling in February.

While speaking to reporters Saturday in Panama President Obama said Clinton “will be very clear about her direction for the country” during her campaign.

To date she faces two Republican opponents, Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) and Sen. Rand Paul (R-K.Y.), but that field is expected to widen as early as tomorrow when Sen. Marco Rubio (R-Fla.) is expected to announce his candidacy. As many as 10 other potential GOP candidates may be waiting in the wings. Democrats who may enter the fray include former Maryland Gov. Martin O’Malley, former Virginia Sen. Jim Webb, and former Rhode Island Gov. Lincoln Chafee.

Clinton has faced a wave of criticism in the months leading up to her announcement regarding the use of her personal  email account while serving as secretary of state. House Republicans have been investigating Clinton over the deadly Benghazi attacks in 2012.

Related:

• Clinton’s official web site.