Hoeffel faces cleared Democratic field as he kicks off tour

U.S. Senate hopeful Rep. Joe Hoeffel faces a cleared field for the Democratic nomination as he launches a statewide tour Tuesday in his campaign to retire incumbent GOP Sen. Arlen Specter.

Hoeffel's primary challenger, Charlie Crystle, a Lancaster software developer and political newcomer, said in an interview Monday night with The Associated Press that he would "take one for the team" and step aside for Hoeffel.

"There really is only enough money for one candidate to go forward against Specter," said Crystle, adding that he hopes to advise Hoeffel and Democratic Gov. Ed Rendell on trade issues.

"I decided to take one for the team," Crystle said. "I'll only do it once, but I think it's appropriate. I don't want to be the spoiler."

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