Wolff's big surprise

Political observers should not be surprised by anything three-time mayoral candidate Kevin Wolff says. Still, last night's announcement that he was dropping out of the race was a stunner.

Wolff, who had run ads urging Matt Czajkowski to drop out of the race, said with two moderates running, it had just become clear to him that neither could win. Here's what he told his fellow candidates at last night's WCHL forum:

TO MARK KLEIINSCHMIDT: "Mark, I do expect you will win this race and become mayor due to the strength of the Democratic Party in Orange County."

TO MATT CZAJKOWSKI: "Matt, I encourage you to the run the very best campaign you can. But be mindful that you are running against the designted mayoral candidate of the Democratic Party, which should not be taken lightly. When you return to Town Council, I hope you will work to make allies with all the other members and work as a team toward common visions and common goals. Good luck."

TO AUGUSTUS CHO: "Augustus, I encourage you to join me and bow out of the race and let these two candidates compete against each other for the good of our town."