By JULIE BYKOWICZ, Associated Press

WASHINGTON (AP) — The Republican presidential contest has grown to 17 candidates with Wednesday's entry of Jim Gilmore.

The former Virginia governor told The Associated Press earlier this month that he would announce his candidacy in early August. On Wednesday, he filed the necessary paperwork with the Federal Election Commission.

Gilmore, a former Army intelligence officer, completed one term as governor in 2002. He joins a robust presidential field that also includes former Florida Gov. Jeb Bush, Wisconsin Gov. Scott Walker, Florida Sen. Marco Rubio, Kentucky Sen. Rand Paul, celebrity businessman Donald Trump and former technology CEO Carly Fiorina.

The top 10 Republicans in national polls will meet for their first debate August 6 in Cleveland, Ohio.