“I have decided to run for re-election in 2010 in the Democratic primary,” said Specter in a statement. “I am ready, willing and anxious to take on all comers and have my candidacy for re-election determined in a general election.”

He added: “Since my election in 1980, as part of the Reagan Big Tent, the Republican Party has moved far to the right. Last year, more than 200,000 Republicans in Pennsylvania changed their registration to become Democrats. I now find my political philosophy more in line with Democrats than Republicans.”

That is what Pennsylvania Senator Arlen Specter had to say about his switch from the Republican party to the Democratic Party.  If nothing else, you have to consider this guy a survivor – he has been a Senator since 1980 and has survived cancer on more than one occasion.  But this still seems to be a cop out of sorts.

Specter is probably comfortable in his role as Senator and all the perks that go along with it.  Additionally, he wants to be on the ticket with the majority of voters in his state.  If not, he could find himself looking at retirement or another occupation after the next election.  He may say his philosophy is more in line with Democrats, but more than likely he is just smart enough to know where his bread is buttered.

He was behind in the polls and now he will have a better chance.  His victory would give Democrats a 60 seat filibuster proof majority in the Senate assuming Democrat Al Franken is eventually sworn in as the next senator from Minnesota.  Again, Specter must be pretty smart because that possibility is probably enough for the Democrats to give him their full support.

President Obama has already welcomed him with open arms.  You gotta love (really hate) politics.