Specter says switch to Democratic Party was a ‘painful decision’

Specter calls switch a ‘painful decision’

WASHINGTON — Veteran Sen. Arlen Specter says his switch to the Democratic Party was a “painful decision,” but he found himself increasingly at odds with a Republican Party that has moved to the right.

Speaking to reporters Tuesday, the Pennsylvania lawmaker said his philosophy was more in line with the Democratic Party. He said in the last few months he surveyed the sentiments of the GOP and found prospects for winning next year’s primary looked bleak.

Specter faced a tough challenge from former GOP foe Pat Toomey.

Specter stunned Capitol Hill with word that he would switch parties. At the news conference, he told Democrats that he won’t be an automatic 60th vote. He said he will follow his own approach to legislating.