Hafer pulls out for 2006

Casey declares, PA dems put pressure on Hafer, and she backs out. MyDD has the full story.

I've not much to add, but this is an important seat for Democrats to win in 2006 to help put the brakes on any perceived backslide. A lot of time, money, and effort will be put into bringing down Rick Santorum, and if this fails, it could perhaps be more debilitating than Kerry's lose last year.

Strong armed tactics by the party to muffle debate seems silly to me. Instead a friendly, open primary would help name recognition and put Democratic issues at the forefront of the debate. Hopefully Chuck Pennacchio's candidacy will be enough to accomplish that.

By the way, for those craving more on Pennsylvanian politics including the upcoming Senate race, check out the well run and highly informative PoliticsPA.