The NRCC has put Hazleton Mayor Lou Barletta "On the Radar" as part of its Young Guns program. As USA TODAY’s Kathy Kiely reported last week, Barletta will attempt to challenge Kanjorski in the upcoming 2010 elections for the third time. His last run at the seat ended with Kanjorski on top 52%-48%. The NRCC’s Young Guns program elevates Republicans through three levels based on their overall campaign: on the radar, contender, and young gun. The NRCC hopes to take Barletta over the top in 2010 as he makes his way through the three levels. NRCC chairman Pete Sessions said in a statement: “The NRCC is committed to working with Lou Barletta as he continues to meet the rigorous goals of the Young Guns program.” However, Barletta is not necessarily a shoo-in for the Republican nomination. Attorney and small business owner Chris Paige will challenge Barletta during the primary. Paige was not immediately available for comment. Updated at 4:34 p.m. ET: Paige told USA TODAY that he congratulates Barletta on making it to the first rung of the program, but said, “The GOP didn't lose this seat 13 times in a row by accident - and they didn't lose this seat 13 times in a row because they understand this district so well or because they're unusually adept at picking the best candidate.” He added, “In the final analysis, it's not about who can win over Republicans in Washington, it's about who can win over the moderate Democrats, the disaffected Democrats and the independents who are the swing voters in the 11th, and Mayor Barletta has proven time and time again that he just can't win.” Original Article |
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