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Scranton endorses Gerlach for guv

Former Lieutenant Governor Bill Scranton endorsed Congressman Jim Gerlach’s (R-6) gubernatorial candidacy Thursday, giving Gerlach the backing of a household name in the Republican Party.

Scranton, who was Lt. Gov. in the 1980s and whose father was governor in the 1960s, called Gerlach “the only candidate with the right experience and bold vision to lead Pennsylvania.”

“With his western Pennsylvania roots and more than 18 years of exemplary public service in southeastern Pennsylvania, Jim has a unique perspective on how to help every corner of our Commonwealth thrive,” Scranton said in a statement released by the Gerlach campaign.

Since entering the governor’s race last month, Gerlach has aggressively sought to demonstrate that GOP rival Tom Corbett is not the only one with backing from party leaders. He has rolled out endorsements from current and former members of Congress, but Scranton might be Gerlach’s biggest get yet, if for no other reason than his name recognition.

Scranton had been rumored to be considering a gubernatorial run himself earlier this year, but put that speculation to rest in May when he told pa2010.com that “I am retired and on the sidelines.”

In his statement Thursday, Scranton also cited Gerlach’s perseverance through challenging cycles in the 6th District.

“Jim Gerlach is a proven winner,” Scranton said. “He has won tough election battles time and again because of his incredible work ethic and willingness to listen to the needs of his constituents and put their interests first.”

August 20, 2009 at 1:14 pm

--Dan Hirschhorn

Tags: Bill Scranton, Jim Gerlach, Tom Corbett

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