Melissa Gilbert, who came to fame starring as Laura on the long running '70s TV series 'Little House On The Prairie', has dropped out of the race for the 8th District Congressional seat from Michigan. She cited health concerns as the main reason.

Gilbert, who resides in the Lansing area with her husband, actor Timothy Busfield (30something, Field of Dreams), had announced her intention to run in August of last year. The seat is currently held by Republican Mike Bishop.

Gilbert told the Detroit Free Press injuries to her neck and head from accidents suffered in 2012 weighed into her decision to drop out.

"While I have received the best treatment and therapy I could have asked for, those injuries have only gotten worse," Gilbert said. "As much as it breaks my heart to say this, my doctors have told me I am physically unable to continue my run for Congress."

"My doctors said there's no way for me to continue to deal with the incredibly rigorous demands of a congressional campaign without continuing to do harm to my body," Gilbert told People magazine.

Gilbert's vacating her run could possibly mean that Bishop will run unopposed in the 8th, which consists mainly of the south central Michigan counties of Clinton, Ingham and Livingston.

Democrat Linda Keefe of Lansing, as of today, has yet to get enough signatures to get on the primary ballot August 2. But the Michigan Democratic Party says county parties in the 8th District can put another candidate on the ballot.

Gilbert has run into a couple of issues since declaring her candidacy, including tax liens filed against her, and comments she made regarding Director Roman Polanski, who is facing statuatory rape charges in the United States.

The actress previously served as President of the Screen Actors Guild from 2001-2005. Busfield recently accepted a teaching position at Michigan State University. 

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