State Rep. Curt Schroder will not seek the Republican nomination for Pennsylvania's 6th Congressional District now that incumbent U.S. Rep. Jim Gerlach has announced he will seek re-election to a fifth term.

No surprise here. Schroder entered the race after Gerlach announced he will run for governor instead of defending his Congressional seat. With Gerlach back in the picture, Schroder will not force a primary fight.

This is a critical year for both state and federal elections. Republicans must take back control of the state House in Harrisburg and the House of Representatives in Washington, D.C., to reverse the failed policies of Ed Rendell and Barack Obama. Party unity is crucial.

Republicans have to rally behind Gerlach and Schroder could be a strong voice for reform in Harrisburg if Republicans regain majority control of the state House.