Just several minutes ago, Ryan Costello, our Recorder of Deeds, announced that he will withdraw from the crowded 6th District Republican Primary.

I have to interview Pat Toomey in five minutes. After I'm done, Imma call Costello and ask why. (By the way, I beat Dan Hirschhorn on this scoop. Take that, Dan.)

Here's Costello's statement:

Today, I am withdrawing my candidacy for Congress.

I want to thank the committee people and donors who have supported my candidacy over the past several months. I intend on remaining active in Republican politics and public service.

While I believe I would have made a strong and respectable showing during the endorsement process, and would have been able to present myself as a strong standard-bearer for the Republican Party in the general election, at this point I have determined that it is not in the cards for me for the 2010 election cycle.

It is crucial to our State and Country that the 6^th Congressional District remains in the Republican column, and I will enthusiastically support the Republican candidate who wins the 2010 primary. Thank you.