U.S. Rep. Jim Gerlach (PA-6th District) issued the following statement Monday after the White House outlined its health care reform proposal that the American people have already rejected:

"After the House and Senate crafted legislation in secret last year, the American people demanded a second opinion on health care reform," Gerlach said. "But the White House proposal offers the same $1 trillion prescription that House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid have been trying unsuccessfully to get the American people to swallow.

"While I am pleased the President has proposed removing the sweetheart deal known as the 'Cornhusker Kickback' for Nebraska, it is disappointing that higher taxes and more invasive government remain the backbone of this plan," Gerlach added. "Workers would pay a new tax on employer-provided health insurance and payroll taxes would climb under the White House plan. The constituents in my district – along with most Americans -- have made it clear that approach is unacceptable."

The New York Times reported that under the White House plan, a family earning about $88,000 a year would pay as much as 9.5 percent of their income toward annual health insurance premiums, or about $8,380 annually. That does not include out-of-pocket costs, such as co-payments or deductibles, according to the paper. And The Morning Call of Allentown cited a statewide poll showing 60 percent of Pennsylvanians want to scrap the House and Senate proposals and consider alternatives. In addition, a majority do not support the government requiring every citizen to buy health insurance.

Gerlach is a co-sponsor of a bipartisan proposal – known as the Small Business Options Health (SHOP) Act – that would increase competition among insurers by allowing consumers to purchase policies across state lines and permitting small businesses to form statewide pools to buy coverage for their employees.

Gerlach also supports the House Republican Medical Rights and Reform Act, which includes provisions to end costly lawsuit abuse and allows doctors and patients to continuing making decisions about the best treatments.

With a new poll in hand showing incumbent Congressman Jim Gerlach holding a commanding lead over GOP primary challenger Steve Welch, the Gerlach campaign is urging Welch to drop out of the race.

A poll released by the Gerlach for Congress campaign shows a 61-point lead over Welch, with the four-term Republican Congressman leading in a head-to-head match up by a 71% to 6% margin.

With Gerlach securing party support and holding a monetary advantage, the only purpose Welch can serve by staying in the race is to help a potential Democratic opponent in the fall, the Gerlach camp argues.

From the Gerlach for Congress campaign:

"Republican voters in southeast Pennsylvania know Jim very well and they have already reached the conclusion that he is doing a good job in Congress and should be returned to Washington for another term," said Chris Wilson, the campaign's pollster. "With solid numbers like these, Jim is a virtual lock to win the Republican primary. Any primary challenge to Jim Gerlach at this point would only serve Nancy Pelosi and Democrats in Washington."

Among the data, Wilson Research Strategies found that Gerlach's Republican support is strongest among the most conservative voters, making it nearly impossible to challenge him "from the right." Additionally, Republican primary voters who disapprove of Congress (87%) do not blame Jim Gerlach for the problems in Washington, since 86% of those voters approve of Gerlach's job performance in Congress. Therefore, this is not an anti-incumbent electorate.

"Even among those voters who have heard of Steve Welch, Gerlach is leading 67-15%," added Wilson.

Since Jim Gerlach's decision to seek re-election January 8th, a number of national publications have written that Pennsylvania's 6th District seat is now more likely to stay in Republican hands, with one commentator stating that Gerlach "saved that seat for Republicans ... I think they would have lost it otherwise." Still, Democrats are ecstatic after learning of Welch's decision to challenge Gerlach in the primary. The National Journal said it forces Republicans into a "potentially costly, and damaging, primary" that could be "damaging to the GOP hopes of holding the seat." Pa2010.com wrote the news of his primary challenge was "a lift for Democrats."

Despite having to start virtually from scratch after winding down his federal campaign account last year in anticipation of a campaign for Governor, Gerlach announced at the end of January that he had secured more than half a million dollars in financial commitments in just three weeks for his primary election campaign, a number that has grown each day.

For more on the poll, click here.

For more on Gerlach, visit his campaign Web site.

The Pennsylvania Conservative Council, a non-partisan grassroots organization based in West Chester, Pa., will host a debate among Republican candidates vying to represent Pennsylvania's 6th Congressional District.

Incumbent Rep. Jim Gerlach and challengers Walt Hufford, Pat Sellers and Steve Welch are expected to participate in the forum, scheduled for Saturday, Feb. 6, from 4 to 6 p.m. at Great Valley High School, 225 Phoenixville Pike, Malvern.

Superior Court Judge Paul Porreca of Millville, N.J., will moderate the debate.

"This is a great opportunity to have the candidates speak directly to the constituents of District 6 and for voters to become engaged in the political process in its very earliest stages," said Greta Scriboni, executive director of Pennsylvania Conservative Council.

"Voters know that there is a lot at stake and they really want the chance to get a closer look at the candidates. They want to hear first hand what the candidates have to say about how they are going to get our state and country headed in the right direction," said Bud McCullough, one of the event coordinators.

To pre-register for the debate see the events registration form at http://paconservativecouncil.com/about/upcoming-events/event-registration

Attendance is free and open to the public; seats will be assigned on a first-come basis.

For more information, visit the Pennsylvania Conservative Council Web site or call Greta Scriboni at 610-517-4170.

Steve Welch, who doesn't even live in PA's 6th Congressional District, is not going to make many friends in the Republican Party by challenging a popular incumbent Republican in U.S. Rep. Jim Gerlach. Welch doesn't have a chance of defeating Gerlach but could do serious damage to his own political future.

Welch: I'm not stepping aside for Gerlach - Politico Staff - POLITICO.com

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.

A day after he announced he was dropping out of the race for Pennsylvania governor, Republican Congressman Jim Gerlach says he will seek re-election to Pennsylvania's 6th Congressional District seat, which Gerlach has held since 2003.

From a press release issued Friday afternoon by the Jim Gerlach for Congress Committee:

"Less than 24 hours ago, I announced that I was ending my campaign to become Pennsylvania's next governor and would continue working hard each day serving the public. Almost immediately, hundreds of concerned constituents and long-time supporters made phone calls and sent e-mails urging me to consider running for Congress again and offering to help in any way they could to keep me in this seat. I am extremely humbled by the response and grateful for the outpouring of kindness and encouragement. The overwhelming response let me know that the best way to continue serving the public is by protecting taxpayers and fighting for our families. And it has reinforced the decision I have made - after exhaustive deliberation with my extremely supportive wife, Karen and our children -- to seek another term representing the great people of the 6th Congressional District.

"Seeking re-election to the 6th Congressional District rather than running for governor will change my position on the ballot. However, my principles remain the same. I am committed to helping families keep more of their hard-earned paychecks, giving small businesses the freedom they need to create jobs and remain competitive and making sure the government lives within its means and works for the people.

"These are the same principles that guided me as a state lawmaker working with Gov. Tom Ridge to trim waste from the Pennsylvania budget and to pass historic Welfare reform legislation, which empowered millions of Pennsylvanians to cash paychecks rather than collect welfare checks. These are the same principles that guided me as a member of Congress to support tax cuts that have saved the average Pennsylvania family more than $2,000 per year and helped make prescription drugs more affordable for our seniors. And these are the same principles that guided me in 2009 when I stood up to House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and voted against the largest spending increase in our history, a misguided cap-and-trade bill that jeopardizes thousands of Pennsylvania manufacturing jobs and a health care scheme that would give the federal government unprecedented control over the daily lives of consumers, doctors and employers. I am energized, and will continue to be the best public servant I can be.

"I truly believe that I represent the best chance for Republicans to not only hold this seat, but play a major role in regaining control of the U.S. House of Representatives. I have held this seat in the face of fiercely competitive elections in which opponents and liberal interest groups have spent millions against me in the worst political environments for Republicans in a generation. This year, taxpayers certainly have a lot on the line if Speaker Pelosi and Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid are allowed to pursue their agenda of higher taxes and infinitely expanding government and wasteful spending. I am determined to make sure that does not happen and look forward to the campaign ahead and continued support of the voters."

I was expecting Congressman Jim Gerlach to drop his bid for Pennsylvania governor before the May primary, I just wasn't sure when he would bail out.

Today's announcement that he's dropping out of the race doesn't surprise me at all. I've talked about his odd decision to give up Pennsylvania's 6th Congressional seat for an uphill shot at Pennsylvania governor on various radio shows and at this blog throughout 2009.

Gerlach, who has a long history of public service, including experience in the Pennsylvania Legislature, would have made a good governor.

The problem comes down to money.

The GOP establishment is lining up behind Attorney General Tom Corbett and most of their money is also going to Corbett.

Gerlach acknowledge the money issue in his statement today:

"While we have successfully raised over $1 million, traveled thousands of miles all across this Commonwealth and signed up more than 19,000 supporters eager to help us win, today's media-driven campaigns require four times that amount to wage a successful primary. That left me with two choices: either spend all of my time raising money with little time left for meeting with voters; or withdrawing my candidacy and working even harder to serve the public. I am choosing to serve the public -- many of whom have graciously rewarded me with their support for nearly two decades."

The big question now is whether Gerlach will change his mind about Congress. If he gets back into the race, he's a shoo-in for re-election.

Read Gerlach's full statement here.

U.S. Rep. Jim Gerlach (PA-6th District) issued the following statement in response to the U.S. Senate's rush to pass a health care bill before Christmas:

"While Mother Nature was dumping a record-setting amount of snow on southeastern Pennsylvania this weekend, Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid and his Democrat leadership colleagues unleashed a blizzard of taxpayer dollars in a frantic attempt to pass a health care bill that has more to do with scoring political points than making insurance affordable and improving the quality of health care. And American taxpayers will be paying for these deals aimed at paving the path to government-controlled health care long after the snow melts.

"After promising Louisiana Senator Mary Landrieu $300 million in taxpayer dollars last month in exchange for her vote, Reid struck backroom deals that will force Pennsylvania taxpayers to help finance a $1.1 billion Medicaid bailout over the next 10 years for Nebraska, Massachusetts and Vermont. That is in addition to an estimated $2.2 billion Pennsylvania taxpayers will have to cover during the next decade if the Democrats’ health care proposal becomes law. Reid also slipped in a $100 million earmark for an unidentified hospital in an unidentified state to build a new facility.

"This avalanche of spending would be bad enough. But the Senate bill also retains the same job-crushing taxes and big government bureaucracy contained in the House health care bill, which I voted against on November 7. Taxes would climb by about $400 billion per year. That includes a $2 billion per year tax on medical testing products that help detect ovarian, breast and pancreatic cancer; products used in hip-replacement surgery and to help patients heal broken limbs; heart stents used in life-saving operations; and other medical devices. This tax would hit Pennsylvania particularly hard because of the approximately 600 medical device manufactures in the Commonwealth that employ roughly 20,000 people in jobs that often pay more than $50,000 per year.

"All of this taxing and spending will result in a bill that the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office confirmed would raise health insurance premiums by $300 per year for individuals and $2,100 per year for middle-class families. That’s unacceptable.

"Rather than buying votes, leaders in the House and Senate should be working on medical malpractice reforms that could save patients up to $140 billion per year and other bipartisan measures that would increase competition among private insurers to lower the cost of premiums and give consumers greater freedom and choices in buying coverage. I will continue working with colleagues on both sides of the aisle to achieve these goals."

Chester County state Rep. Curt Schroder, a Republican candidate for Pennsylvania's 6th Congressional District, announced Tuesday he has raised more than $100,000, exceeding his fundraising goals over the past six weeks.

"I am humbled by the outpouring of local support that I have received," Schroder said in a press release. "Over 320 individuals helped us raise nearly $110,000, the overwhelming bulk of which came in during the last 30 days."

Schroder emphasized that the bulk of his contributions came from individuals within the 6th District and not from far flung national PAC's representing special interests or a personal check.

"Clearly the taxpayers in our region know me, my record and what I stand for. They know that as their Congressman I will go to Washington and place their interests first"

Taking a shot at one of his opponents, Steven Welch, who doesn't live in the 6th District, Schroder noted: "I have lived in the 6th District since its inception and the Downingtown area my entire life. I understand the values, needs and priorities of the people who live here. The out-pouring of grass roots support clearly demonstrates that the people who live here recognize that"

Schroder has represented Chester County's 155th District in the state Legislature since 1994.

The 6th District Republican nomination is up for grabs in 2010 after incumbent Republican Jim Gerlach announced he would not seek a fourth term. Instead, Gerlach is running for governor of Pennsylvania.

For more on the campaign, visit Schroder's Web site at http://vote4curt.com/

Jim Gerlach, a Republican candidate for governor, said on Thursday that Pennsylvania's broken budget process has become a national embarrassment.

On the 100th day of the state's budget impasse, Gerlach said this would never happen if he was sitting in the governor's mansion.

"We do not need to waste any more time playing political games and pointing fingers," Gerlach said in a written statement. "This dysfunctional process has resulted in a 100-day delay in enacting a budget. The Harrisburg culture of putting self-interest ahead of the public interest must end. The families of Pennsylvania understand the importance of paying your bills on time and not spending more than you can afford. For far too long Harrisburg has ignored these basic principles.

"That's why I was the first candidate for governor to propose moving to a a two-year budget cycle to cut costs, increase accountability and avoid the annual budget soap opera, which for the last seven years has resulted in increased government spending and higher taxes. And we must stop rewarding politicians in Harrisburg for failure. If the state cannot meet the Constitutional requirement of enacting a budget by July 1st of each year, then the Governor, his Cabinet and lawmakers should lose a day's pay for every day the fail to pass a budget."

In September, Gerlach released a 17-point "Pledge to Pennsylvania" that is a contract to protect taxpayers and send a very clear message that the days of rewarding failure, ignoring runaway spending and tolerating a lack of accountability in Harrisburg are over.

The entire "Pledge to Pennsylvania" is available at his campaign Web site, www.gerlachforpa.com

U.S. Rep. Jim Gerlach is one of 28 members of Congress who signed a letter sent to the Inspector General of the Housing and Urban Development asking for a review of how the liberal activist group ACORN used taxpayer funds.

Gerlach (PA-6th District) wants HUD officials to make sure ACORN is held accountable for every dollar of taxpayer funding it has received, according to a press release issued Monday.

From Gerlach's press release:

In a letter to HUD Inspector General Kenneth M. Donohue, Gerlach requested a comprehensive audit of ACORN's finances to give the public some peace of mind that their hard-earned tax dollars have not subsidized corrupt or illegal activity.

"In the wake of new, but not unfamiliar, reports of criminal and illicit activity involving ACORN, I believe it is imperative that this organization’s finances be reviewed and investigated by your Department to determine whether improper and illegal use of federal dollars has occurred since ACORN first began receiving federal funds in 1994," Gerlach wrote.

The letter signed by 26 Republican members of the House Financial Services Committee and GOP Congressmen Mike Pence of Indiana and Pete Sessions of Texas.

Video of ACORN employees in New York and Maryland giving illegal advice to two filmmakers posing as a prostitute and a pimp prompted the U.S. Census Bureau to end its partnership with ACORN on Friday. The Senate voted 83-7 on Monday to cut off Housing and Urban Development funding slated for ACORN.

ACORN – which stands for the Association of Community Organizations for Reform Now -- has been the focus of voter-registration fraud investigations in recent years.

Locally, two ACORN workers in March 2008 pleaded guilty in Berks County Court and were sentenced to jail for creating phony voter-registration forms in order to collect cash from the organization, according to the Reading Eagle.

In July, Dauphin County election officials have investigated over 100 suspicious voter-registration applications submitted by ACORN

And In September 2006, nearly 100 fraudulent voter registration applications were filed in Delaware County, prompting the District Attorney’s Office to issue an identity theft alert. All 100 applications were filled out by four individuals working for ACORN.

State Rep. Curt Schroder has added Kyle Whatley as campaign manager in his bid to win the Republican nomination in the 6th Congressional District.

Whatley has held leadership positions in or managed four congressional campaigns, a mayor's race and two city council offices. He led a statewide non-profit organization and has consulted Fortune 500 companies.

Originally from Texas, Mr. Whatley came to Pennsylvania specifically to work on
Curt Schroder's campaign.

"My wife and I would not have moved almost 2,000 miles if I was not absolutely certain Curt Schroder was going to win this race," Whatley said. "He is in an exceptional position to not only prevail in the primary but to win the election next
November. I am grateful for the opportunity to be part of this campaign and look forward to playing my role in Curt Schroder being the next Congressman representing the 6th District of Pennsylvania."

Schroder added, "I am pleased to announce the hiring of Mr. Whatley. This team is fast becoming one of the most skilled in the country."

Schroder previously announced that addition of two consulting firms, Strategy Group for Media and Hallowell & Branstetter as part of his campaign team.

"The Strategy Group for Media has consistently won awards for excellence, Hallowell & Branstetter has a combined 50 years in Pennsylvania politics and we have now added an experienced campaign manager," Schroder said. "I am extremely confident in the professional team we have assembled and am excited about the race to come."

Schroder was first elected to represent the 155th District of Pennsylvania in the State Assembly in 1994.

He and his wife reside in Downingtown with their two children.

The 6th District Congressional seat will be open in 2010 because incumbent U.S. Rep. Jim Gerlach is not seeking re-election to Congress, opting instead to run for Pennsylvania governor.

For more on Schroder, visit his campaign Web site, http://Vote4Curt.com

State Rep. Curt Schroder, R-155th, issued the following statement in response to the news that 7th Congressional District resident Steve Welch will seek the Republican nomination in the 6th Congressional District:

"The 6th Congressional District was always expected to be a hotly contested race. The interest of Republican candidates from across the state proves how competitive it will be. Over my 15 years in the State Assembly I have been a consistent advocate for fiscal restraint and I have the record to prove it. The support and encouragement I have received for my candidacy from voters in the 6th Congressional District has been overwhelming.

I am confident that my record and my broad support across the district will carry me through the primary."

Schroder was first elected to represent the 155th District of Pennsylvania in the State Assembly in 1994. Prior to his time in the House, Schroder was Prothonotary for Chester County.

He and his wife reside in Downingtown with their two children.

Schroder's campaign Web site is www.vote4curt.com

You can also follow Schroder on Facebook and Twitter

Steven Welch is about to shake up the 6th Congressional District race.

Welch had been planning to run for the 7th Congressional District, but with former U.S. Attorney Pat Meehan expected to announce Monday he will seek the 7th District Republican nomination in 2010, Welch believes he has a better chance of winning in the neighboring 6th Congressional District.

Pennsylvania's 7th Congressional District seat is held by Democratic Rep. Joe Sestak, who opted to challenge Sen. Arlen Specter in the Democratic primary instead of seeking re-election. Pennsylvania's 6th Congressional District is currently held by Republican Rep. Jim Gerlach, who is running for Pennsylvania governor instead of seeking re-election to Congress.

From Welch's announcement:

"When I decided with my family to run for public office, I did so knowing the uphill battle I faced against an incumbent with over $4 million in his campaign account. I am running for Congress because I believe that we need elected officials who have experience creating jobs, balancing a budget and meeting a bottom line," Welch said. "Having been raised in Chester County and building my businesses and creating good jobs here in the 6th District, I know the great potential these communities have to lead the charge in turning around our economy.

"Pat Meehan's decision to seek the nomination in the 7th District provides our region twice the opportunity to elect leaders who will restore fiscal responsibility to Washington," said Welch. "This campaign has never been about me, it has been about engaging new voters in this process and effectively communicating the need for fiscal responsibility and how we can create good jobs in the Delaware Valley.

"The 6th District requires proven experience to recharge our economy and craft policies that lead to job-creation. I will work tirelessly to earn the respect of 6th District voters and ensure that Southeastern Pennsylvania and our country get back on track so that the American dream is within everyone's reach," added Welch.

Welch, a political newcomers will have to face two seasoned Republican opponents in the 2010 GOP primary. State Rep. Curt Schroder and Chester County Recorder of Deeds Ryan Costello are also seeking the 6th District nomination.

Welch is the founder & former CEO of the Mitos Group, a leader in biotechnology solutions. Welch is also the co-founder of DreamIt Ventures, a unique venture firm that helps technology start-ups get off the ground. Over the past two years DreamIt has funded over 20 small businesses and helped nearly 100 entrepreneurs.

In 2008, Welch was selected as a member of the Philadelphia Business Journal's 40 under 40, as well as being named its Entrepreneur of the Year. Most recently, Welch was awarded the prestigious Eisenhower Fellowship to build bridges internationally in small business communities to drive job creation and economic development.

Welch and his wife, Nicole, live in Upper Providence with their daughter and son.

His campaign Web site is http://www.welchforpa.com/

The West Chester Daily Local News is reporting that popular Chester County state Sen. Andy Dinniman will not seek the Democratic nomination for the 6th Congressional District in 2010.

Most political observers familiar with the 6th District agree that the nomination was Dinniman's for the taking.

But Dinniman told the Daily Local News he's afraid the 6th District, now held by Republican Jim Gerlach, would be gerrymandered out of existence after the 2010 Census is completed.

"If you ran in the 6th District, you would work hard to get elected, and then your district might disappear," Dinniman told the newspaper.

In other words, Dinniman could have won the seat, but might be out of a job in 2012 or 2014. There has been speculation that those very same concerns led Gerlach to announce he will not seek re-election, opting instead for a run for the GOP nomination for Pennsylvania governor.

The question I have is this: What does Dinniman know about the 2010 Pennsylvania legislative elections? The Pennsylvania Legislature will decide how to redraw the 6th District lines and if Republicans control the Legislature, they can change the 6th to make it easier for a Republican to win.

Is Dinniman conceding that Republicans will take back control of the state House next year? Sure sounds like it.

With Dinniman out, the only announced Democratic candidate is former newspaperman Doug Pike, who has never held elected office.

On the Republican side, longtime state Rep. Curt Schroder and Chester County Recorder of Deeds Ryan Costello have announced their candidacy for the 6th Congressional seat.

Read more about Dinniman's decision in the West Chester Daily Local News' Web site.

Just because your Congressman hasn't bothered to read the 1,000-plus pages of the Obamacare bill doesn't mean you can't.

U.S. Rep. Jim Gerlach is making it possible for his constituents to spend what's left of their summer reviewing the Democrats' health care bill by dropping off copies of the bill at his district offices and selected libraries.

From a Gerlach press release:

Looking for something to read in addition to a dog-eared paperback novel in the waning days of summer?

Congressman Jim Gerlach (PA-6th District) has provided copies of the House Democrats' Health Care legislation to his district offices in Berks, Chester and Montgomery counties as well as seven public libraries throughout the district.

"This 1,017-page tome may not be as exciting as the titles topping the New York Times Best Sellers List, but the public deserves a chance to read the legislation before Congress votes this fall," Gerlach said. "That's why I believe it's important to make copies of the bill available throughout communities in the 6th District.

"I hate to spoil the ending for readers. However, the plan House Democrat leadership proposes would allow the federal government, rather than doctors and patients, to make more decisions about treatments ranging from knee-replacement surgery to chemotherapy for cancer patients. The plan also will impose higher taxes and burdensome mandates on small business owners, family farmers and other job creators as they attempt to shrug off the effects of the worst recession in more than two decades. That's why I oppose this attempt to usher in an era of government-controlled health care that the Congressional Budget Office, the nonpartisan researchers for Congress, concluded would fail to stem the rising cost of health care and balloon our national debt to staggering levels.”

Below is a list of locations where you can read a copy of the health care bill:

Narberth Community Library
80 Windsor Avenue
Narberth, PA 19072
610-664-2878

Montogomery County – Norristown Public Library
1001 Powell Street
Norristown, PA 19401
610-278-5100

Pottstown Public Library
500 High Street
Pottstown, PA 19464
610-970-6551

Mifflin Community Library
6 Philadelphia Avenue
Shillington, PA 19607
610-777-3911

Louisa Gonser Community Library
70 Bieber Alley
Kutztown, PA 19530
610-683-5820

Honey Brook Community Library
687 Compass Road
PO Box 1082
Honey Brook, PA 19344
610-273-3303

Treddyfrin Public Library
582 Upper Gulph Road
Strafford-Wayne, PA 19087
610-688-7092

Congressman Gerlach's Chester County Office
111 East Uwchlan Avenue (Route 113)
Exton PA 19341
610-594-1415

Congressman Gerlach's Montgomery County Office
580 Main Street, Suite 4
Trappe PA 19426
610-409-2780

Congressman Gerlach's Berks County Office
840 North Park Road
Wyomissing PA 19610
610-376-7630

A copy of the bill can also be found online at http://thomas.loc.gov/

State Rep. Curt Schroder is gearing up his Congressional campaign with the launch of a new Web site and the hiring of direct-mail and media consultants.

Schroder, who has represented the 155th House District in Chester County since 1995, is seeking the Republican nomination for the 6th Congressional District, which is being vacated by U.S. Jim Gerlach.

From a press release:

Schroder for Congress today announced the launch of its official Web site, Vote4Curt.com. The site provides biographical information and will also serve as a portal to connect visitors to the campaign's Twitter, Facebook and YouTube pages.

Visitors to the site can browse news items, sign-up to volunteer and contribute to the campaign.

Also today, the campaign announced that it has hired Hallowell, Branstetter & Long and The Strategy Group for Media as consultants.

Based in Harrisburg, Hallowell, Branstetter & Long is one of the nation's premier Republican mail firms and Pennsylvania's leading political consulting firm. Over the past decade, HBL has successfully handled over 200 major Pennsylvania campaigns, from statewide to county-wide races.

The Strategy Group for Media (SGM) is one of the nation's leading Republican media consulting companies. Based in Columbus, OH, the Strategy Group for Media has helped to elect more new Republican members to Congress in the last decade than any other media consulting group in the country.

The Strategy Group for Media has produced winning ads for dozens of candidates in Pennsylvania, including Rep. Joe Pitts. In recent years, the company has also served as media consultants to the Pennsylvania Republican Party, the Pennsylvania Senate Republican Campaign Committee and the Pennsylvania House Republican Campaign Committee. The American Association of Political Consultants has awarded SGM numerous "Pollie" awards for creative television and radio advertising, including five awards for work done during the 2008 election cycle.

Web site: Vote4Curt.com

Twitter: twitter.com/vote4curt

YouTube: youtube.com/vote4curt

CQPolitics is reporting that Democrat Doug Pike has kicked in $510,000 of his own money to finance his run for Congress in Pennsylvania's 6th District.

From a story by reporter Greg Giroux:

Pike, who is vying to succeed Republican Rep. Jim Gerlach, a 2010 candidate for governor, gave his campaign $510,000 in this year's second quarter, or about 77 percent of his total receipts of $664,000. That was the most money raised in the reporting period by a non-incumbent 2010 candidate for the House.

When Pike, a former editorial writer for The Philadelphia Inquirer, announced his candidacy in early April, Democratic officials said that he would be willing to part with $1 million of his own money on the race.

Although this is his first run for political office, Pike is a son of former New York Rep. Otis G. Pike (1961-79), a Florida retiree who, according to Giroux, gave $1,000 to his son's campaign.

Pike is the first, and so far, the only announced Democratic candidate, but that won't last much longer. An opportunity to run for an open Congressional seat doesn't come around too often.

The only announced GOP candidate for the 6th Congressional District is Chester County state Rep. Curt Schroder, but the field is expected to increase as we get closer to 2010.

Read the full story, "Personal Money Spikes Pike's Fundraising," at CQPolitics

For more about the Pike, visit his official campaign Web site, www.pikeforcongress.com

Another Chester County Republican officeholder is interested in running for Jim Gerlach's Congressional seat.

A day after state Rep. Curt Schroder, R-155, announced he is a candidate for the seat now held by Gerlach, Chester County Recorder of Deeds Ryan Costello said Wednesday he is exploring a run for Congress.

Gerlach announced Tuesday he will no seek a fifth term so he can pursue the GOP nomination for Pennsylvania governor in 2010.

Costello, an attorney in Phoenixville, was elected Chester County Recorder of Deeds in 2007. He is also the former chairman of the East Vincent Township Board of Supervisors.

"I have a serious interest in the 6th District Congressional seat, and in the coming weeks I'm going to continue to talk to the taxpayers and community and party leaders who I know are equally concerned about the excessive spending in Washington and the ramifications for future generations," Costello said in a prepared statement. "We need to create jobs and promote economic development in the Tri-County region by eliminating regressive business taxes and reducing health care costs for employers so they can begin to grow and prosper again. As Recorder I see first-hand the impact of regional real estate trends on families and seniors and the only way to stimulate the housing market is to stimulate the job market."

Costello used the announcement that he is thinking about running for Gerlach's U.S. House seat, to take a few shots at the big-government atmosphere in Washington, D.C.

"I think the stimulus bill was too much money, spread over too long a period of time, and has been ineffective in lowering unemployment and getting the economy moving again because a majority of the dollars didn't go to a failing transportation and infrastructure system and small businesses who are struggling to keep the lights on," Costello said. "I don't think expansion of government welfare programs is the correct response to our current problems."

More from a press release issued by Costello:

An attorney with the O'Donnell, Weiss & Mattei, P.C., law firm, practicing in their real estate and business departments, Costello also emphasized he has familiarity with the 6th Congressional District.

Born in Phoenixville, and a graduate of Owen J. Roberts high school, Ursinus College, and Villanova law school, Costello remarked, "I am familiar and know the Chester, Montgomery and Berks county region well. My experience as an attorney advocating for economic development projects, and understanding how to get projects done, is a positive attribute to a congressional candidacy in these times. And my elective office experience as a countywide Republican elected official is one I am proud of."

"I know this district well, and having volunteered on each of Congressman Gerlach's campaigns, I know what it will take to keep this a Republican district. I have the energy to run an aggressive campaign, and the experience and intelligence to be a strong, thoughtful candidate with common sense ideas that reflect this diverse district."

Just hours after U.S. Rep. Jim Gerlach announced he will not seek re-election to Pennsylvania's 6th Congressional seat, a fellow Chester County politician announced plans to run for Gerlach's seat.

State Rep. Curt Schroder, R-155th Dist., is seeking the Republican nomination for the 6th Congressional District, which includes portions of Berks, Chester and Montgomery counties and a sliver of Lehigh County.

"I have decided to enter this race to ensure that the values that built our country remain for our children, that we encourage the policies of entrepreneurism, limited government and to preserve the economic future of our nation," Schroder said in a written statement.

Schroder added, "America's greatness comes from free enterprise and hard working families, not government bailouts and bureaucracy. I will bring my passion for public service and Pennsylvania values to Washington to better our community and nation."

Gerlach, who is giving up a shot for a fifth term in Congress to run for Pennsylvania governor in 2010, first won the 6th District seat in 2002 but has had a difficult time holding the seat against well-financed Democratic opposition.

Gerlach typically loses the Montgomery County portion of the district, but does well in the more conservative areas of Chester and Berks counties.

Schroder, a fiscal and social conservative, will probably employ the same strategy if he wins the GOP nomination. He's already taken shots of the growing deficits of the Obama administration.

"This binge of bailouts and borrowing will come to an end if I have anything to say about it!" Schroder said.

Here's some background information about Schroder released by his campaign:

A lifelong resident of Chester County, Schroder grew up in the Downingtown area and now lives in East Brandywine with his wife, Deanna, and two children, Mark and Kristen.

After graduating from Downingtown High School in 1979, Curt attended Indiana University of Pennsylvania (IUP). Summers were spent working in the steamy environs of the Davey Paper Company where he earned money for the next year of college. After graduating from IUP in 1983, Curt went to Widener School of Law’s evening division in Wilmington Delaware at night while working for the Philadelphia law firm German, Gallagher and Murtagh during the day. Schroder practiced law with German, Gallagher after graduating law school and passing the bar exam.

First elected to the state House in 1994, Schroder has been an effective advocate for legislative issues and a champion for our communities in Harrisburg. During his time in the legislature, Curt has been a leader in many issues including health care and government reform. Schroder lead efforts to reform medical malpractice and preserve our health care system. Schroder also spearheaded efforts to reform the PA General Assembly and preserve the secret ballot rights of workers.

Schroder believes strongly in community service and serves in a number of community organizations. He serves on the Boards of Brandywine Hospital and Brandywine YMCA. He previously served on the Chester County Drug and Alcohol Advisory Board and as a member of the East Brandywine Township Planning Commission.

Schroder has received numerous honors for his work in the House and here at home. He was presented with Leadership Awards from both the Hospital and Healthcare Association of Pennsylvania (HAP) and the Delaware Valley Health Care Council, the 2004 Friend of Family Medicine Award from the Academy of Family Physicians, and Legislator of the Year from the Pennsylvania Orthopedic Society.

Schroder received the first Matthew J. Ryan Legislator of the Year Award in 2004 from the Chester County Chamber Foundation. He was named Legislator of the Year by the TriCounty Chamber of Commerce in 2002 and again in 2006. Schroder was honored as the Outstanding Citizen of the Year in 1998 by the Downingtown Chamber of Commerce for his work in revitalizing the Borough. In 2007, Curt was named the first recipient of the Sen. Robert. J. Thompson Public Service Award by the Exton Region Chamber of Commerce and was also presented with the Citizenship Award from the Pennsylvania VFW for his commitment to fostering patriotism. More recently Curt Schroder received recognition from the Upper Uwchlan and West Vincent Township Police Departments for his work on the Route 100 Safety Corridor Project.

No word yet on a "Schroder for Congress" Web site, but you can learn more about his tenure in the state House of Representatives at www.curtschroder.com. You can also follow Schroder on Facebook.

I like Jim Gerlach. He's been my Congressman for the past 7 years. I voted for him in 2002, 2004, 2006 and 2008. He's done a good job. I've met him on several occasions. He's smart and affable. He knows the issues and has done a good job taking care of his constituents. I'd vote for him for just about any political office.

Having said that, I believe Gerlach is making a huge mistake giving up his 6th District Congressional seat to run for Pennsylvania governor in 2010. It's not that he wouldn't make a good governor. He'd be a big improvement over Ed Rendell, the current tax-and-spend liberal occupying the governor's mansion. The problem with Gerlach's decision is that he has no chance of winning. He'll never make it past the GOP primary next spring.

Tom Corbett will be the Republican nominee for governor in 2010. Corbett has proven himself in two statewide runs for Attorney General. Gerlach is not known outside SE Pennsylvania and can't raise the kind of cash Corbett can to make a successful run for statewide office.

Gerlach may be testing the waters in 2010 for a future statewide run for governor or Senate, but in the meantime, he's is going to give up a Republican seat in Congress to a Democrat.

That's the part that bothers me about Gerlach's decision. The 6th Congressional District (parts of Montgomery, Chester and Berks counties) has been trending Democratic in recent years and only Gerlach, a fiscal conservative with moderate social views, can hold the seat.

Without Gerlach on the ballot, Democrats will have the edge in winning the 6th Congressional seat in 2010 ... and Republicans may never get it back.

Here is the press release issued today announcing Congressman Jim Gerlach's decicion to run for Pennsylvania governor:

Gerlach Pledges to Create Jobs, Cut Government Spending & Waste and Make Pennsylvania the Leader in America's Energy Independent Future

Exton, PA - Jim Gerlach, a western Pennsylvania native and four-term United States Congressman from Chester County, will run for the Republican nomination for Governor of Pennsylvania next spring. Gerlach is the only Republican to formally declare his candidacy for Governor.

"The economic challenges Pennsylvania faces over the coming years demand proven, fiscally conservative leadership, and a successful record of dealing with a wide-range of tough issues. From cutting state spending, income taxes and welfare rolls, I have been on the front lines for years fighting for smaller government and greater efficiency in Harrisburg and Washington. Our next Governor must employ those values and put them to work in Harrisburg, and make Pennsylvania a competitive place to do business so we can create jobs and put families back to work. It's that simple," said Gerlach.

"The debate in Harrisburg of raising state income taxes by 16 percent, creating a new tax on one of the most promising energy industries in Pennsylvania, and increasing spending in one of the worst budgets in a generation show the need for new leadership. I cannot sit back and Pennsylvania taxpayers cannot afford to allow the proponents of larger, unsustainable government to prevail. One of my top priorities will be to enact results-based budgeting with performance benchmarks on state spending. This will insure that taxpayers aren't funding failing government programs year after year without seeing any return on the investment of their hard-earned dollars. My campaign will focus on restoring fiscal sanity to Harrisburg, increasing accountability and cutting waste, creating jobs and making Pennsylvania the leader in America's energy independent future," Gerlach continued.

"It has been a privilege and an honor to serve the residents of the 6th Congressional District for more than six years. But I believe the best place for me to improve the lives of Pennsylvania's taxpayers, families and seniors is as Governor. It is not a decision I made lightly. However, it became clear after careful deliberation with my wife Karen, our six kids, friends, constituents, party leaders and grassroots folks across the state who want to re-energize our state Republican Party, give voters a choice next spring and create a bright economic future for the next generation of Pennsylvanians."

To date, Congressman Gerlach has secured over $1 million in financial commitments for his gubernatorial run on top of the $200,000 in exploratory funding raised since February. In addition, 100% of his federal campaign funds are transferable to his statewide gubernatorial campaign committee. A formal statewide announcement tour and kick-off fundraising events are being planned for the near future.

"I did not want to wait any longer to make this announcement. I know our team will need plenty of time to formalize our support and organize the campaign's infrastructure. In addition, I know full well how competitive a 2010 open seat congressional race will become, and I owe it to our Party's candidates to ensure they have enough time to raise the money and support to be successful," added Gerlach.

Gerlach is in Washington, D.C. as debate begins on Democrat plans to put government bureaucrats in charge of the nation's healthcare system. Back in February, Gerlach voted against the bloated federal stimulus package and was the first in Pennsylvania to call on Governor Ed Rendell to establish a stimulus oversight commission to protect and monitor billions of dollars in federal aid from waste, abuse and mismanagement.

For more on Gerlach, visit his campaign Web site, http://www.gerlachforpa.com/

Congressman Jim Gerlach, R-6th Dist., is hosting a forum Tuesday morning to provide constituents an opportunity to learn how cap-and-trade bill and other issues before Congress could affect jobs and utility rates

WHAT: Energy Roundtable Discussion

WHEN: Tuesday, June 23 at 9:00 A.M.

WHERE: Chester County Economic Development Council
Eagleview Corporate Center
737 Constitution Drive
Exton, PA 19341

CONFIRMED ATTENDEES INCLUDE:
· Pennsylvania PUC Commissioner Robert F. Powelson
· Nancy Keefer, President & CEO, Chester County Chamber of Business and Industry
· Exelon Energy
· PPL

Brad Bumsted of The Pittsburgh Tribune-Review has an interesting story about a possible Tom Corbett/Pat Meehan "dream ticket" for Pennsylvania governor/lieutenant governor in 2010.

Both men have announced interest in running for governor, but only one will get the Republican Party nomination. The lieutenant governor is elected separately.

Allegheny County Republican Chairman Jim Roddey is pushing a Corbett/Meehan ticket.

From Bumsted's article:

In the letter made public today, Roddey said: "I strongly believe the two of you would make a winning ticket — two tough prosecutors to clean up and reform state government. Based on Tom's ability to win in a tough political environment, I am asking you to refocus your efforts and running with him for lieutenant governor."

Both candidates have geographic bases and records as prosecutors, but Roddey noted that Corbett twice has been elected statewide, including a 380,000-vote victory in November during a Democratic sweep.

Meehan trails badly in most polls of perspective GOP gubernatorial candidates and isn't widely known outside the Philadelphia area, but he does make an attractive lieutenant governor candidate.

And keep in mind that there's no law that a governor or lieutenant governor has to run for re-election to a second term.

Bob Casey Jr.'s U.S. Senate term ends in 2012 and a high-profile Republican will be needed to challenge Casey.

Corbett could serve one term as governor and then take on Casey, clearing the way for a Meehan run for governor. Or Meehan could end up challenging Casey if Corbett wants a second term as governor.

The other high-profile Republican expressing an interest in running for governor is Congressman Jim Gerlach, who represents Pennsylvania's 6th District. Gerlach has the same weakness as Meehan; he is a relative unknown outside Southeastern Pennsylvania.

Unlike Meehan, who resigned last year as U.S. Attorney for SE Pennsylvania, Gerlach has a job and party leaders are worried that the GOP would lose the 6th District seat if anyone other than Gerlach ran.

Read the Bumsted's full story at the newspaper's Web site.

A state lawmaker from Chester County is interested in running for Congressman Jim Gerlach's 6th Congressional District seat if Gerlach ends up running for Pennsylvania governor in 2010, according to CQ Politics.

State Rep. Curt Schroder, R-155, has been a member of the Pennsylvania House since 1995. A staunch conservative and thorn in the Harrisburg establishment, Schroder has organized a campaign committee with the Federal Election Commission to allow him to raise money for a possible Congressional bid, says CQ Politics.

From the CQ Politics post:

Schroder, who couldn't be reached for comment Thursday, was first elected in 1994 from a legislative district in Chester County, which is one of four counties from which the 6th claims territory. The Democrats haven’t fielded a candidate against Schroder in any of his seven re-election campaigns.

But Schroder would be put to the test in the 6th District, where Barack Obama took 58 percent of the vote in the 2008 election. Pennsylvania's 6th is one of just six districts that voted for Obama and also for John Kerry in 2004 that is presently represented in the House by a Republican.

Gerlach bucked the Democratic trend in his district, but just barely: he took 51 percent of the vote in 2002, 2004 and 2006 and 52 percent of the vote in 2008.

Here's the scoop on Gerlach. Although he has set up an exploratory committee, he will not run for governor, but will seek reelection to his 6th District seat for three reasons: 1) Gerlach trails Pennsylvania Attorney General Tom Corbett in the polls and is unlikely to make up any ground; 2) Gerlach has never run a statewide race is a virtual unknown in most of Pennsylvania; 3) Gerlach is the only Republican who can hold the 6th District seat and will be under tremendous pressure from GOP leadership to seek another term.

As for Schroder, there's nothing wrong with being the first announced Republican to show interest in the seat on the very slim chance Gerlach decides not to seek reelection, but Schroder's future is in a House leadership position should Republicans regain control of the state House in 2010.

For more on Schroder, visit his web site, http://www.curtschroder.com/

For more on Gerlach, visit http://www.gerlachforpa.com/

From Congressman Jim Gerlach's office:

Gerlach Invites Constituents to Follow Him on Twitter

Washington – Congressman Gerlach has a new way to communicate what's going on in the 6th District and in Washington thanks to the social-networking site Twitter.

The congressman will begin posting messages -- or tweets – starting today. Visit the congressman's Web site at www.gerlach.house.gov for a link to Twitter to follow the congressman and receive updates on legislation, key votes, events and other items.

"I am excited about the chance to share information about the work we do each day with the people of the 6th District," Gerlach said. "Twitter offers a great opportunity to speak directly to constituents and hopefully enhances the service we provide to the district."

Twitter users can also find Congressman Gerlach's page at http://twitter.com/JimGerlach

Salena Zito, writing in the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, says Patrick Meehan, the former U.S. Attorney for Southeastern Pennsylvania, has moved closer to announcing a run for Pennsylvania governor.

From Zito's post:

Former U.S. Attorney Pat Meehan for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania just did the closest to declaring his candidacy for the Republican candidate for Governor by posting a Web site called www.meehanforpa.com

Since he does not hold an elected office, this is as coy as he can get to putting it out there that he wants to run.

Congressman Jim Gerlach, R-6th, got the jump on the other GOP hopefuls a couple of weeks ago by announcing formation of an exploratory committee.

Pennsylvania Attorney General Tom Corbett is the leading GOP contender in the governor's race.

The House of Representatives just voted 246-183 to approve Barack Obama's $787 billion "stimulus" plan, without a single Republican supporting the massive pork bill.

The 1,071-page bill goes to the Senate, where Democrats will approve it with the help of the three RINOs (Republican In Name Only), including Sen. Arlen Specter of Pennsylvania.

U.S. Rep. Jim Gerlach, a Republican who represents Pennsylvania's 6th Congressional District, voted against the biggest federal spending increase in U.S. history and said the bill is so massive that Washington could send a check for more than $10,000 to every family of four in the 6th District.

I live in the 6th District and I'd love to get my hands on a check for $10,000.

From a press release issued by Gerlach's office:

"Instead of getting checks from Washington, generations to come will be giving more of their hard-earned paychecks to the federal government to pay for this spending plan that tops $1.1 trillion when debt costs are added," Gerlach said. "It's fitting that this bill is being rammed through the House on Friday the 13th because it's truly a nightmare for our children and grandchildren who will be stuck paying off the mountain of debt. What started out as a process to get Americans working again degenerated into a big-government spending spree.

"Some have tried to claim that this legislation is crucial to rebuilding our roads, bridges, and highways and giving a boost to our public transit systems. However, just 3.5 percent of the $787 billion will be spent on highway and bridge projects. And nearly twice as much -- $15 billion -- will be spent on giving $1,000 tax breaks to individuals who do not pay a penny in federal income tax as will be spent on public transit -- $8.4 billion. With spending priorities like that, it's no wonder that nearly 60 percent of the people in a Jan. 23 Rasmussen Poll feared too much government spending would occur in the next two years.

"I understand that this is a time of extreme economic uncertainty and that we have an obligation to work on policies that help American workers collect paychecks instead of pink slips. However, I am confident that most of my constituents are just as puzzled as I am about how many jobs will be created by spending $650 million on digital television converter box coupons."

"Congress has missed an historic opportunity to roll up our sleeves and work together with President Obama on a bipartisan bill. Republican proposals to ease the tax burden of the unemployed by eliminating the federal income tax on unemployment benefits were brushed aside. And legislation that I have sponsored to reward American companies that provide health insurance and retirement benefits to workers and keep their headquarters on U.S. soil was never considered."

U.S. Rep. Jim Gerlach, who represents Pennsylvania's 6th Congressional District, announced today has formed an exploratory committee to run for governor of Pennsylvania in 2010.

In addition to filing the necessary paperwork establishing a committee to help him raise money, Gerlach also launched a new Web site, www.GERLACHFORPA.com

"We are taking this process one step at a time," Gerlach said in a statement. "At this early stage we are very excited about the support we've received, and that's why I've decided to move forward with the exploratory committee. Although this isn't a declaration of my candidacy, it will allow us to ratchet up our travel around the state to speak with political, business and community leaders, help our 2009 statewide judicial candidates, conduct polling and determine if there is a clear path to victory. I suspect that by late spring we'll know whether to formally move forward with a campaign for governor."

Gerlach said his decision to take the next step toward the governor's mansion came after discussions with longtime friends, supporters, family members and political leaders across the state.

"I believe Republicans in Pennsylvania are looking for a winner and a leader who has the experience and ideas to solve the problems faced by the taxpayers, families and seniors of Pennsylvania," Gerlach said. "The exploratory committee and I are dedicated to the governing principles of smaller and smarter government, creating good paying jobs, ensuring retirement security, cutting government waste and no new taxes."

Gerlach spokesman Mark Campbell said his boss has shown he can attract voters in a highly-contested part of the state.

"Congressman Jim Gerlach is a proven winner, surviving two Democrat wave elections in one of the most difficult congressional districts in the country and winning this past fall with his largest margin of victory ever," Campbell said. "Gerlach also earned more votes in his district than any other Republican candidate on the ballot. All this despite an overall net gain of 50,000 Democrat registrations and President Obama carrying the top of the ticket with 59% of the vote."

Gerlach has been one of the few bright spots for Republicans in Pennsylvania, holding the 6th District seat despite major efforts to unseat him by the Democratic Party.

In 2006, after national pundits counted him out and Democrats spent $7.3 million to defeat him, Gerlach won by 3,000 votes in the same year Democrat Gov. Ed Rendell carried Gerlach's district with 66% of the vote, Campbell notes.

Does Gerlach have a chance? Gerlach is well known to voters in the nine counties in the Philadelphia and Allentown TV media markets, which accounted for nearly 40% of all votes cast in the last gubernatorial election, Campbell says.

And remember that little-known congressman from Erie by the name of Tom Ridge? He ended up winning two terms as Pennsylvania governor.

Gerlach will continue to operate his congressional fundraising committee until a final decision is made on his 2010 statewide bid, according to his staff.

Gerlach has said he will run for only one office in 2010, so it's likely he will give up his Congressional seat.

I know why this man is smiling.

With less than three weeks to go until Election Day, Republican Congressman Jim Gerlach (PA-6th District) is sitting on a $700,000 campaign war chest.

That doesn't bode well for his Democratic challenger, Bob Roggio, whose campaign has failed to catch on with voters in Gerlach's suburban SE Pennsylvania district.

Gerlach, who is seeking his fourth two-year term in the House of Representatives, has just launched a district-wide television campaign highlighting his independent record in Congress.

From the Jim Gerlach for Congress Committee:

The campaign of Congressman Jim Gerlach will file its quarterly finance report Wednesday with the Federal Election Commission, showing nearly $2.2 million raised for the cycle, $300,000 of which was raised recently, and over $700,000 available for the final three weeks of the campaign. The campaign also launched a new television advertisement district-wide.

The television ad running on network and cable highlights the Congressman's long record of being rated one of the most independent Republicans in Washington by two non-partisan publications, National Journal and Congressional Quarterly.

The ad also contrasts with Bob Roggio, who stated earlier this year that the very first thing he would do in Congress is repeal tax cuts that have saved Pennsylvania families over $2,000 per year, a disastrous economic policy during a recession and economic downturn.

Second, despite "candidate" Roggio claiming that the environment is a top priority, the ad informs voters of official Environmental Protection Agency records filed by Roggio's company between 1989 and 1996 showing that the corporation released over 245,000 pounds of toxic chemicals into the air.

Finally, "candidate" Roggio says he wants to bring jobs to Pennsylvania. The problem is, numerous press reports beginning in 1995 show that Roggio's company accepted millions in corporate welfare and tax breaks to close its Pennsylvania plant and move over 500 jobs out of state.

It's report card for members of Congress.

The Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America has released its 2008 Congressional Report Card, rating members of Congress on their support of veterans who served in Iraq and Afghanistan.

U.S. Rep. Jim Gerlach (PA-6th District) earned an "A" from the group, his campaign reports today.

"IAVA Action's 2008 Congressional Report Card recognizes those lawmakers who refused to compromise on the most important issues facing Iraq and Afghanistan veterans," said Paul Rieckhoff, executive director of Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America (IAVA). "From passing a new GI Bill to increasing VA funding by over 10 billion dollars, the 110th Congress has made tremendous progress on behalf of America's newest generation of heroes. Over the last two years, Congressman Gerlach has demonstrated that he is a great friend to Iraq and Afghanistan veterans and their families.IAVA Action is proud to give Congressman Gerlach an A and would like to thank him for his leadership on these critical issues."

From a press release issued by Jim Gerlach For Congress:

Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America is the nation's first and largest group dedicated to the Troops and Veterans of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, and the civilian supporters of those Troops and Veterans.

"Congressman Gerlach is proud of his record of supporting the brave men and women courageously protecting our freedom on the battlefield and treating them with tremendous dignity and respect when they return home," said Mark Campbell, Gerlach political director. "He looks forward to continue working on behalf of veterans and their families."

Gerlach also has been endorsed by the National Vietnam and Gulf War Veterans Coalition and Veterans' Vision.

To read more about the IAVA Report Card, visit the group's Web site.

U.S. Rep. Jim Gerlach has fought three tough campaigns to win Pennsylvania's 6th Congressional District.

Gerlach, seeking his fourth two-year term, has a special incentive to win re-election in November.

Gerlach has dedicated his campaign to his mother, Helen, who recently passed away.

From Gerlach's campaign Web site:

"To Mom: This Campaign's For You!"

"As many on our campaign team know, my mother, Helen Gerlach, passed away on May 14th at the age of 79. For those who knew her, she was a vibrant and energetic individual absolutely passionate about politics and public service. For the past 14 years, she worked as a legislative assistant for Pa. State Senator Mary Jo White in NW Pa. And, boy, did she enjoy the work of helping constituents, representing Mary Jo at community events and visiting young children in local schools. In fact, she was so committed to her work that she did not take one sick day during those 14 years until just 3 days before she passed. But that was Mom- thoroughly committed and dedicated to whatever she did.

And that certainly describes Mom in her family life. Widowed at age 32 with 3 kids age 7, 5 and 6 weeks, she refused welfare and went to work raising us with the values of honesty, determination, perseverance, and personal responsibility. Through her work ethic and on a shoe-string budget, she managed to raise us in a loving and nurturing home, take us on a week's vacation every year, and even put us through college. Her approach was to raise us with "love, roots and wings" and she accomplished that to the highest level. And she continued, in later years, to provide that same nurturing and support to her 8 grandchildren and 3 step-grandchildren.

To many in NW Pa., and her colleagues in Harrisburg, Mom was known as "The Helenator" for her dogged determination to help constituents and her
"can do" spirit.

As my dear friend Hud Voltz put it when he learned of her passing: "She rode high in the saddle, with her boots on, and packin' plenty of heat!" Did she ever! But that "heat" was really just a powerful combination of love, commitment to family, compassion for her fellow human beings, a terrific sense of humor, and sheer willpower.

So as my family and I continue to mourn the loss of this unbelievable individual, our grief is balanced with our recognition of how God has blessed us in allowing us to share our lives with her. And as one who has the honor to serve fellow citizens as their elected representative, I constantly strive to exercise her essential qualities of fairness, decency and common sense..

So for what Mom meant to me, her family, and her community, I would like to dedicate the remainder of this campaign to her!

The Loving Son of The Helenator-

- Jim

Read more about Jim Gerlach at his campaign Web site, http://www.jimgerlachforcongress.com/

The Democratic Party is worried about holding on to its 2006 Congressional gains -- at least in Pennsylvania.

Democrats won four Pennsylvania Congressional seats held by the GOP in 2006 by linking every incumbent Republican Congressman to George W. Bush.

But two years of broken promises, uncontrolled pork spending and inaction on many issues has left Congressional Democrats vulnerable.

Don't be surprised if Republicans take back at least three Pennsylvania Congressional seats in November.

One district that has been a battleground for six years is again in the spotlight.

The Dems have launched attack ads on U.S. Rep. Jim Gerlach, a moderate Republican who has been able to hold on to Pennsylvania's 6th Congressional District since 2002 despite millions of dollars spent by the Democratic Party to oust him.

Gerlach's 2008 opponent is a lightweight named Bob Roggio, who in some polls trails Gerlach badly. So enter the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee, aka Smear Central.

The DCCC has been running misleading radio ads attempting to blame high gas prices on President Bush and Republicans in Congress, including Gerlach. The ads refer to the GOP as the "Grand Oil Party."

The reality is that it's the Democrats who control Congress who have prevented new drilling for oil, construction of new refineries and licensing of additional nuclear plants.

The roadblocks Democrats have put up have lead to skyrocketing gasoline prices.

Since they can't defend their non-existent energy policy, the Democrats have decided to go on the attack.

An Associated Press-Yahoo News poll released Monday says that 9 in 10 Americans have been hit hard by skyrocketing gas prices and have had to adjust their lifestyle because of the high costs of gas.

That 10th person must be one of those well-to-do Barack Obama supporters. Or it might be Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi who gets to shuttle around the country on a taxpayer-paid airplane.

Democrats still don't get it about gas prices, which have risen 50 percent in the past six months.

Further proof that Democrats are clueless when it comes to the plight of working Americans comes in the form of a radio ad sponsored by the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee that makes a joke out of high gas prices.

The ad buy features a comedian imitating President Bush and joking about gas prices.

U.S. Rep. Jim Gerlach, a Pennsylvania Republican, issued a statement Monday saying the suffering of American families is not a laughing matter.

"Pennsylvania families' real pain and suffering over high gas prices isn't funny and isn't a joke," Gerlach said in a written statement. "The DCCC just doesn't get it - $4.00 gas is really hurting America's working families and political jokes like this won't hide their Party's inaction on this issue, or lower the price of gas. Bi-partisan solutions are needed, and needed now."

In a national radio address over the weekend, Gerlach noted that Democrat plans to raise taxes on oil companies will only raise gas prices for families even higher, since higher taxes get passed through to consumers, according to his campaign staff.

Gerlach stressed innovation, conservation, and most importantly, increasing our own domestic energy supply through safe off-shore drilling, says the Jim Gerlach for Congress Committee

Gerlach's press release also offers this stunning fact: Gas prices have increased 75% since Democrats took control of Congress, and the energy package referenced in the DCCC attack ad was the exact same one supported by Barack Obama and half of the Democratic leadership in the House in 2005. Democrats and Republicans need to come together in a bi-partisan effort to lower gas prices.

"My opponent opposes off-shore drilling and believes we need to tax consumers further," Gerlach said. "That 'head-in-the-sand' energy plan will push gas prices dramatically higher tomorrow and in years to come. At the end of the day, I think we can both agree that making jokes about gas prices during these tough times is inappropriate, and I call on my opponent to publicly condemn the DCCC ad."