2 Democrats withdraw from race in Alabamaâs 2nd district

The crowded race for the Democratic nomination in Alabama’s 2nd congressional district is less crowded after the withdrawal of two candidates.

Dr. Brian Gary, a Montgomery surgeon, withdrew on Dec. 13, said Sheena Gamble, director of communications for the Alabama Democratic Party.

Darryl Sinkfield, a top official with the Alabama Education Association, announced his withdrawal on Wednesday, the Alabama Political Reporter reported. Sinkfield said he decided the campaign was taking him away from other obligations and responsibilities.

The withdrawals leave 11 candidates in the Democratic race. There are eight Republicans running.

Gary and Sinkfield were probably longshots in the Democratic race, a field that includes five members of the Alabama Legislature.

The 2nd District race drew the unusually large number of candidates after a three-judge federal court approved a new map that changed it from a strong Republican district to one where Democrats have a chance to win.

The district, which previously covered southeast Alabama, now stretches from the Georgia line to the Mississippi line, incorporating Montgomery at the north end and much of Mobile at the south end.

The primary is March 5.