(Rep. Dowling Official Photo)
UNIONTOWN, Pa. (AP) — Pennsylvania state Rep. Matthew Dowling is removing himself from the ballot following a drunken driving charge filed against him last week. The three-term Fayette County Republican faces charges of misdemeanor driving under the influence and traffic offenses. A spokeswoman for the Department of State says Republicans have until Aug. 25 to nominate a substitute to run against the Democratic candidate, Richard Ringer. Dowling’s blood alcohol content was found to be .27%, which is more than three times the legal limit for driving in Pennsylvania. Dowling said he entered a voluntary, month-long treatment program in a Pennsylvania rehabilitation facility the day after the wreck.