Legislative race chat

1. U.S. Rep. Jim Gerlach (R, 6th dist.) will run for re-election next year, likely in a rematch against Lois Murphy. Gerlach has not always been popular with his own party, due to an unpredictability with regard to the "party line" on various issues (e.g., Social Security), nor with the opposition party, which finds him a bit too much of a party player (e.g., on the DeLay ethics investigations). However, the GOP made a strong show of support, with Laura Bush swinging through PA for a Gerlach fundraiser. A lot of attention will be focused on this raise, which is considered a swing seat.
   
   
2. Meantime, on the western side of the state, onetime U.S. Senate aspirant Barbara Hafer, who bowed out of that race in deference to Bob Casey (see previous story here), is considering a challenge to Tim Murphy for his Pittsburgh-area U.S. House seat. Mention is made of conferences with Gov. Rendell, so perhaps support for this effort was linked to her decision in the previous one.

Lots more, I'm sure, as these races approach!