WASHINGTON - Former secretary of state Hillary Clinton formally launched her second presidential bid with a video on her website, putting her forward as a champion of everyday Americans.

The 2-minute video was a stark contrast from the stodgy one that she used in her 2008 campaign. While the previous video focused on her speaking to the camera while seated in her living room, Sunday's version takes the focus off the candidate.

The clip is dominated by a series of normal Americans getting back on their feet after the global financial crisis.

Towards the end of the video, Mrs Clinton makes an appearance to say: "I'm getting ready to do something too. I'm running for president."

She adds: "Americans have fought their way back from tough economic times but the deck is still stacked in favour of those at the top. Everyday Americans need a champion. I want to be that champion."

The video was put up on her website, www.hillaryclinton.com, five minutes after Mrs Clinton's campaign manager John Podesta sent an email to donors announcing her decision to run.

She also sent a tweet stressing that she wants to be a champion for everyday Americans.

Mrs Clinton is now expected to make campaign stops in Iowa and New Hampshire, two early primary states. She concludes her video by saying: "So I'm hitting the road to earn your vote. Because it's your time and I hope you will join me on this journey."

The 67-year-old is the first Democrat to enter the race.

Only two Republicans have officially declared their runs for the Oval Office thus far - Texas Senator Ted Cruz and Kentucky Senator Rand Paul. Florida Senator Marco Rubio is expected to announce his own run tomorrow.