Darlene Hooley wont seek re-election. Mitt Romney ends race.

Two important candidates announced they are ending their campaigns.

Congresswoman Darlene Hooley has announced that she will not run for re-election. This puts a very mixed congressional seat into the national spotlight (again). Republican challenger Mike Erickson spent a lot of money last election and has been early campaigning this cycle. This begs the question on whom from the Democratic side will step up, especially on such short notice? Will more Republicans join in? Filing day is March 11th.

In national news, Mitt Romney told CPAC conference he is stepping aside. Video here on cnn.com.