PA-12 field grows, but Joyce Murtha won't run

Joyce Murtha won't run for her late husband's House seat, according to media reports. The late Rep. John Murtha's (D-Penn.) campaign committee made the announcement in an email Monday. "She feels that it is too soon after his death to be on the campaign trail," the committee said.

While Joyce Murtha opted not to run, his district director, Mark Critz, is getting in. Critz made the announcement via the message on his personal cellphone. "Yes, I am running to be the next congressman representing the 12th District of Pennsylvania. And I need your vote. And I need your support,” he said in the message.

Critz resigned today from his district director post and said he "will be making an announcement tonight or tomorrow."

Meanwhile, Cambria County Controller Ed Cernic Jr. (D) also announced Monday he's seeking the Democratic nod. He joins former Lt. Gov. Mark Singel, former state treasurer Barbara Hafer, and Navy veteran Ryan Bucchianeri in the race.

The special election is set for May 18.