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CHARLEVOIX -- Former Charlevoix County Commissioner, Connie Saltonstall, is withdrawing from the race for the 1st District seat of retiring Democratic Congressman Bart Stupak.

The Democrat said Monday she was being opposed by the Michigan Democratic Party and didn't think she would be able to raise enough campaign money.  She said party leadership was favoring state Rep. Gary McDowell of Rudyard.  Asked about the announcement, party Chairman Mark Brewer said Saltonstall has been a great activist and local party leader.

Democrats in the race include McDowell and former state Rep. Matt Gillard of Alpena.

Republicans include state Sen. Jason Allen of Alanson, Dan Benishek of Iron River, Linda Goldthorpe of Helmer, Don Hooper of Iron River, and Tom Stillings of Antrim County's Torch Lake Township.