Former Rep. Melissa Hart (R) became the latest 2006 casualty to attempt a comeback, telling the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette on Saturday that she hopes to oust Rep. Jason Altmire (D) in 2008.

“Obviously, I still have a commitment to public service, despite the elections of last year,” Hart said.

National Football League Hall of Famer and 2006 gubernatorial candidate Lynn Swann (R), who was considering a 2008 bid for the 4th district, has decided against running, the Post-Gazette reported.

Altmire beat Hart by nearly 4 points last year in a race that broke late for the challenger and was considered an upset.

Before making it to a rematch, Hart will have to get by former Allegheny County Commissioner Ron Francis in the Republican primary.
— David M. Drucker