Hoffman to stay in race if he loses GOP primary

Douglas L. Hoffman pledged to run a "full, committed campaign" through Election Day to state Conservative Party Chairman Michael R. Long, ending speculation about what the 23rd Congressional District candidate would do if he lost a Republican primary.

Mr. Hoffman has declined repeatedly for months to say whether he would actively campaign, but his pledge to Mr. Long was confirmed Tuesday by the state party chairman and Robert H. Ryan, the candidate's spokesman.

Mr. Long said Mr. Hoffman would keep his word, but added: "I have no concerns because Doug's going to win the Republican primary."

Mr. Hoffman faces Matthew A. Doheny, Watertown, in the Sept. 14 primary.