Phil English Endorses Gerlach for Governor

(Exton, PA) – Former Congressman Phil English of Erie today endorsed Jim Gerlach for Governor. English, a seven-term former Congressman first elected to the U.S. House of Representatives from a Democratic district during the 1994 Republican Revolution, backed Gerlach because of his experience on issues and record of winning.

“Jim Gerlach is hands-down the most prepared, honest and thoughtful candidate for Governor, and he has my full support,” said English. “Jim and his campaign will really resonate with folks here in the Northwest not only because he’s one of us, but because he is best prepared to help put families back to work, reduce the size of state government, and create greater opportunities for our kids and grandkids.”

Jim Gerlach is an Ellwood City native, Lawrence County, and attended Lincoln High School and later Dickinson College before moving to Chester County.

“Our party needs a bold reform-minded candidate for governor who has fought in the trenches to cut taxes, improve healthcare and create jobs, and there is no Republican survivor with more scars from those fights than Jim Gerlach. As Governor, Jim will continue to be a tremendous advocate for taxpayers and job creators on Main Street, instead of the special interests in Harrisburg,” added English. “I believe Jim’s pro-life credentials, and his proven record of cutting taxes, fighting for small business, and protecting seniors will really resonate with voters and taxpayers in northwest Pennsylvania. I’m proud to endorse him for Governor.”

Jim Gerlach, one of only five Republicans nationwide re-elected from a district carried by John Kerry in 2004, has endured nearly $15 million in national Democrat spending in his campaigns for Congress. That amount is four times what has been spent by Democrats against Tom Corbett in his two statewide campaigns. Last fall, Gerlach received more votes than any other Republican on the ballot while President Obama carried his district with nearly 60% of the vote.

“Congressman English’s support is a big boost for us because so many in the northwest have come to rely on Phil as a trusted, commonsense leader on issues like taxes and jobs,” said Gerlach. “I’m honored to have Phil join our team and look forward to his help in continuing to build our campaign throughout Pennsylvania.”

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