In more Toomey-moves-to-the-center news…

Former Rep. Pat Toomey (R-Pa.) appears to be cementing himself as the GOP candidate in Pennsylvania’s Senate race, and now come more signals that the former Club for Growth head is moderating.

Toomey released a statement Monday morning praising four Democratic members of the state’s delegation for voting against the House-passed energy bill on Friday.

“Along with 40 other Democrats, these Pennsylvania Democrats had the courage to stand up to one-party rule in Washington,” Toomey said. “They understand that protecting the environment is an important goal, but they are not willing to sacrifice American prosperity and hardworking taxpayers in the process.”

Of course, Toomey took the requisite shot at potential general election opponent Rep. Joe Sestak (D-Pa.) for voting ‘aye,’ but that emphasis was on the praise for the Democrats in the delegation.

“It is a shame Rep. Joe Sestak (PA-07) couldn’t muster up the same courage,” Toomey said. “Instead, he voted to support Nancy Pelosi’s extreme agenda. The question is, will Senator Specter choose the same path?”

Toomey began the race as a right-winger looking to upend Sen. Arlen Specter in the GOP primary. With Specter now a Democrat, Toomey has taken care to broaden his appeal.