The Hill: Van Hollen targeting N.J. seats, but state GOP officials unafraid

[Chesco ABB]

Hi. First post here. I figured I'd de-lurk and finally register as I live (and vote) in PA 6 (and also the 19th State Senate district). I think Dinniman would be the strongest candidate. He's not a flash in the pan, as he'd been a County Commissioner (guaranteed Dem spot) since the early 90s, and, would have a high level of name recognition here in Chesco and could  really cut into Gerlach's base here. He's been virtually the only elected Dem for that time. He's known for getting involved in worthy causes and has a good reputation in these parts, and got a fair bit of Republican support in the special election, soundly beating a strong candidate in Carol Aichele. (I wouldn't mind her taking over Dinniman's old seat, should he beat Gerlach.) I believe Dinniman would start as the favorite, and I'd certainly consider voting for him, and I've voted for Jim all three times that he has run for Congress. Should be very interesting to watch if Dinniman enters the race. Obviously, a lot would depend on the national mood in 2008.

[Chesco ABB]

Great first post. Welcome to the forum!

Dinniman is a strong candidate. He is recognizable and did run a good campaign to run that Special election. However, I think Gerlach has the edge. It'll be tough. Let's see if he even runs.

Thanks, Phil. Dinniman's state senate seat is up in '08 anyway, and he's not getting any younger. (I'm guessing the State Senate seat would go GOP with Aichele or Curt Schroder, though the Dems would put up a fight.)If Andy has any designs on a Congressional seat, this would be the time. A moderate presidential GOP candidate would likely help Gerlach, but I think he needs all the help he can get, as he's just never established himself in this seat. We shall see.

[Chesco ABB]

Just curious, any idea who the GOP will get in PA-10? Phil, as you probably
know, there were a lot of Philly suburban RINO's (myself included) who voted for Kerry as well as the Bush Dems out in SW PA and elsewhere.