CANTON — St. Lawrence County Republicans will target Democratic-held seats on the Board of Legislators — which come up for election in two years — and the district attorney’s race next year, according to the incoming county chairman of the GOP.

Thomas L. Jenison, Canton, was tapped by fellow Republicans on Sept. 27 to take over from Nancy K. Martin. Mrs. Martin will become an assistant secretary, regional chairwoman and communications director.

Mr. Jenison is chairman of the county Planning Board. He is a landlord and owner of Jenison’s Books & Antiques.

Party members will work in the near future on building up committee participation to look for candidates to run against Democrats on the Legislature. All of the board’s 15 seats are up for election in 2014. Democrats control the board 8-7.

“The Republicans had a good shot at gaining control two years ago,” Mr. Jenison said. “The Democrats and Republicans on the board work well together, but we could certainly utilize more Republicans for fiscal security.”

The party needs to talk to potential candidates now to make sure they have the time and interest to serve, he said.

“We’re saying you can’t wait until three months before the election,” Mr. Jenison said. “We’d like to have strong candidates in all the races, although I know there’s some we probably will not take over.”

The other focus will be on District Attorney Nicole M. Duvé, a Democrat, who faces re-election next year. Ms. Duvé first took office after winning a 2005 race against Gary W. Miles to succeed Jerome J. Richards, who was elected county judge in 2004. She was unchallenged for her second term.

“We actually believe we have one, if not two candidates,” Mr. Jenison said. “They have let it be known they’re interested in talking. They feel that office has some room for improvement.”

Mr. Jenison declined to name the possible candidates.

Republicans have earmarked money raised for the races.

“Next year, we’re going to add to it,” Mr. Jenison said. “We do have some money to assist.”

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