Ramaley bows out

Current state Rep. and now former state Senate candidate Sean Ramaley announced Thursday he is dropping out of his Senate race, ending weeks of speculation about his political future.

Earlier this month, Ramaley was one of 12 people implicated in "Bonusgate." He surprised some immediately following the allegations when he said he wanted to stay in the Senate race. 

Whoever replaces Ramaley faces an uncertain campaign. Beaver County Democrats, including former House Minority Whip Mike Veon, are heavily implicated in the Bonusgate charges, and the candidate would already have to make up for lost time on the campaign trail.

Further complicating matters is the potential candidacy of Jay Paisley, who is trying to collect enough signatures by Friday's deadline to be placed on the ballot. The former Democrat would likely siphon votes from whoever replaces Ramaley, potentially opening the door for Republican Elder Vogel Jr. 

Replacement speculation has centered on Beaver County Commissioner Joe Spanik and Ramaley's rival for the  Democratic nomination this April, Jason Petrella.