Michael van Hoek, one of four Democrats running for the congressional seat now held by GOP Freshman Rep. Gus Bilirakis, is leaving the race and endorsing former Plant City Mayor John Dicks.

Van Hoek, of Valrico, said he’s dropping out because of a back problem he’s had since a car crash in 1991, which has worsened because of the campaign’s rigors.

He said he and Dicks “share a common interest in public service and public safety, and he’s held public office and has run a classy campaign.”

Van Hoek, a paramedic and a member of the Hillsborough Democratic Club, said he plans to stay active in local politics and could run again for public office.

Tampa lawyer William Mitchell and Anita de Palma are also in the race for the Democratic nomination to run against Bilirakis.

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