Dan Wholey won't be the Democrat taking on Republican incumbent Tim Murphy in the 18th Congressional District this November.

Mr. Wholey, an owner of the Strip District seafood emporium, said yesterday he is bypassing the Democratic race in the sprawling district that includes parts of four counties.

"Though it would be an honor to represent the 18th District, my family comes first," he said. "An issue with my immediate family has come to the forefront, and my wife and I must pay full attention to it."

He said he would not rule out a run in the future. Mr. Wholey, like Mr. Murphy, is from Upper St. Clair.

Other Democrats who have said they'll run include Erin Vecchio, a Penn Hills school director; Beth Hafer, a former teacher who is the daughter of Barbara Hafer, former state treasurer and auditor general; Brien Wall, an Upper St. Clair businessman; and Steve O'Donnell, a Monroeville businessman.