Sestak says he’s not dropping out

There was rush of speculation recently that Pennsylvania Congressman Joe Sestak would withdraw from the Democratic primary for U.S. Senate and instead seek re-election to his congressional seat.

There was rush of speculation recently that Pennsylvania Congressman Joe Sestak would withdraw from the Democratic primary for U.S. Senate and instead seek re-election to his congressional seat. [audio:100212spsenate.mp3]

Congressman Sestak says the rumors are unfounded. But after the Democratic State Committee voted to endorse his rival, newly minted Democrat Arlen Specter, some say pressure is on the retired Admiral to stick with a sure thing, and save his Congressional seat from a tough Republican challenge.

Not so say the folks down in D-C with the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee, they’re backing Delaware County State Representative Bryan Lentz, who’s running for Sestak’s seat against Republican Pat Meehan.

Many party leaders have urged Sestak to withdraw, but Delaware County Democratic chair Cliff Wilson says it’s just not in Sestak’s character to give up.

Wilson: Pressure would be counter-productive because he doesn’t respond to pressure. Now he does respond to intelligent thoughtful consideration and discussion if they want to have that with him. But we did that a year ago, and he’s not gonna respond to pressure at all.

Congressman Sestak is behind in the polls, and both state and national party leaders are backing Specter.

If Sestak does decide to run again for Congress, he needs to make his choice soon. Tuesday marks the day to start circulating nominating petitions.