2008 United States House of Representatives elections in Pennsylvania

Last updated

2008 United States House of Representatives elections in Pennsylvania
Flag of Pennsylvania.svg
  2006 November 4, 2008 (2008-11-04) 2010  

All 19 Pennsylvania seats to the United States House of Representatives
 Majority partyMinority party
 
Party Democratic Republican
Last election118
Seats won127
Seat changeIncrease2.svg 1Decrease2.svg 1
Popular vote3,209,1682,520,805
Percentage55.45%43.55%
SwingDecrease2.svg 0.12%Increase2.svg 0.37%

Pa 2008 House Election.svg
2008 US House PA By County.svg

The 2008 congressional elections in Pennsylvania was held on November 4, 2008, to determine who will represent the state of Pennsylvania in the United States House of Representatives. Pennsylvania has 19 seats in the House, apportioned according to the 2000 United States census. Representatives are elected for two-year terms; those elected will serve in the 111th Congress from January 4, 2009, until January 3, 2011. The election coincides with the 2008 U.S. presidential election.

Contents

District 3 was the only seat which changed party (from Republican to Democratic), although CQ Politics had forecasted districts 3, 4, 6, 8, 10, 11, 15 and 18 to be at some risk for the incumbent party. This was the last time the Democrats would win a majority of congressional districts in Pennsylvania until 2022.

Match-up summary

District Democratic Republican OthersTotalResult
Votes%Votes%Votes%Votes%
District 1 242,79990.76%24,7149.24%00.00%267,513100.00%Democratic hold
District 2 276,87088.93%34,46611.07%00.00%311,336100.00%Democratic hold
District 3 146,84651.24%139,75748.76%00.00%286,603100.00%Democratic gain
District 4 186,53655.86%147,41144.14%00.00%333,947100.00%Democratic hold
District 5 112,50941.04%155,51356.72%6,1552.24%274,177100.00%Republican hold
District 6 164,95247.90%179,42352.10%00.00%344,375100.00%Republican hold
District 7 209,95559.59%142,36240.41%00.00%352,317100.00%Democratic hold
District 8 197,86956.77%145,10341.63%5,5431.59%348,515100.00%Democratic hold
District 9 98,73536.08%174,95163.92%00.00%273,686100.00%Republican hold
District 10 160,83756.33%124,68143.67%00.00%285,518100.00%Democratic hold
District 11 146,37951.63%137,15148.37%00.00%283,530100.00%Democratic hold
District 12 155,26857.85%113,12042.15%00.00%268,388100.00%Democratic hold
District 13 196,86862.79%108,27134.53%8,3742.67%313,513100.00%Democratic hold
District 14 242,32691.26%00.00%23,2148.74%265,540100.00%Democratic hold
District 15 128,33341.43%181,43358.57%00.00%309,766100.00%Republican hold
District 16 120,19339.39%170,32955.82%14,6454.80%305,167100.00%Republican hold
District 17 192,69963.68%109,90936.32%00.00%302,608100.00%Democratic hold
District 18 119,66135.93%213,34964.07%00.00%333,010100.00%Republican hold
District 19 109,53333.35%218,86266.65%00.00%328,395100.00%Republican hold
Total3,209,16855.45%2,520,80543.55%57,9311.00%5,787,904100.00%
Popular vote
Democratic
55.57%
Republican
43.55%
Other
1.00%
House seats
Democratic
63.16%
Republican
36.84%

District 1

2008 Pennsylvania's 1st congressional district election
Flag of Pennsylvania.svg
  2006
2010  
  Bobbrady.jpeg 3x4.svg
Nominee Bob Brady Mike Muhammad
Party Democratic Republican
Popular vote242,79924,714
Percentage90.76%9.24%

U.S. representative before election

Bob Brady
Democratic

Elected U.S. representative

Bob Brady
Democratic

PA-1st.gif

Five-term incumbent Bob Brady (D) ran for another term after losing his bid to be mayor of Philadelphia. He was challenged by businessman Mike Muhammad (R). This race was viewed as noncompetitive, as it took place in heavily Democratic Philadelphia. Brady ran unopposed in 2006 and has generally received over 80% of the vote in his campaigns.

Democratic primary

Candidates

Nominee

Primary results

Democratic primary results [1]
PartyCandidateVotes%
Democratic Bob Brady (incumbent) 116,334 100.0
Total votes116,334 100.0

Republican primary

Candidates

Nominee
  • Mike Muhammad, businessman

Primary results

Republican primary results [1]
PartyCandidateVotes%
Republican Mike Muhammad 4,637 100.0
Total votes4,637 100.0

Predictions

SourceRankingAs of
The Cook Political Report [2] Safe DNovember 6, 2008
Rothenberg [3] Safe DNovember 2, 2008
Sabato's Crystal Ball [4] Safe DNovember 6, 2008
Real Clear Politics [5] Safe DNovember 7, 2008
CQ Politics [6] Safe DNovember 6, 2008

General election

2008 Pennsylvania's 1st congressional district election [7]
PartyCandidateVotes%
Democratic Bob Brady (incumbent) 242,799 90.76
Republican Mike Muhammad24,7149.24
Total votes267,513 100.00
Democratic hold

District 2

2008 Pennsylvania's 2nd congressional district election
Flag of Pennsylvania.svg
  2006
2010  
  Chaka Fattah official headshot (cropped).jpg 3x4.svg
Nominee Chaka Fattah Adam Lang
Party Democratic Republican
Popular vote276,87034,466
Percentage88.93%11.07%

U.S. representative before election

Chaka Fattah
Democratic

Elected U.S. representative

Chaka Fattah
Democratic

PA-2nd.gif

Seven term incumbent Chaka Fattah (D), who was unsuccessful in his bid to be mayor of Philadelphia, ran without major party opposition. Liberal Republican law professor Michael Livingston won the Republican primary, but dropped out of the race due to lack of funding. He was replaced by Adam Lang. This seat is contained in one of the most Democratic districts in the country, with Democrats often winning 90% of the vote. In 2006, Fattah was elected with 88.6% support and in 2008 he won with 88.9% of the vote.

Democratic primary

Candidates

Nominee

Primary results

Democratic primary results [1]
PartyCandidateVotes%
Democratic Chaka Fattah (incumbent) 161,022 100.00
Total votes161,022 100.00

Republican primary

Candidates

Nominee
  • Michael Livingston, law professor [a]

Primary results

Republican primary results [1]
PartyCandidateVotes%
Republican Michael Livingston 4,521 100.00
Total votes4,521 100.00

Predictions

SourceRankingAs of
The Cook Political Report [2] Safe DNovember 6, 2008
Rothenberg [3] Safe DNovember 2, 2008
Sabato's Crystal Ball [4] Safe DNovember 6, 2008
Real Clear Politics [5] Safe DNovember 7, 2008
CQ Politics [6] Safe DNovember 6, 2008

General election

2008 Pennsylvania's 2nd congressional district election [7]
PartyCandidateVotes%
Democratic Chaka Fattah (incumbent) 276,870 88.93
Republican Adam Lang34,46611.07
Total votes311,336 100.00
Democratic hold

District 3

2008 Pennsylvania's 3rd congressional district election
Flag of Pennsylvania.svg
  2006
2010  
  Dahlkemper-kathleen.jpg Phil English (cropped).jpg
Nominee Kathy Dahlkemper Phil English
Party Democratic Republican
Popular vote146,846139,757
Percentage51.24%48.76%

2008 PA-3 Election results.svg
County results
Dahlkemper:     50-60%
English:     50-60%     60-70%

U.S. Representative before election

Phil English
Republican

Elected U.S. Representative

Kathy Dahlkemper
Democratic

PA-3rd.gif

Seven-term Republican incumbent Phil English faced Democrat Kathy Dahlkemper (campaign website), director of the Erie Arboretum. Steven Porter, the 2006 Democratic nominee, ran as an independent.

English was tested in 2008. He represented a politically balanced Erie-based district that gave George W. Bush 53% of the vote. Also, in 2006, he received just 54% of the vote against an under-funded candidate with no political experience. He has, however, been able to remain a level of popularity due to a moderate voting record and close ties to organized labor.

The DCCC recruited Erie County Councilman Kyle Foust as its top choice to run against English. Dahlkemper, attorney Tom Meyers, and religious nonprofit program coordinator Mike Waltner also declared for the Democratic primary. [8] Dahlkemper proved better at mobilizing support than Foust, the original front-runner, and won the Democratic nomination with 45% of the vote.

Democratic primary

Candidates

Nominee
Eliminated in primary
  • Kyle Foust, Erie County Councilman
  • Tom Myers, attorney
  • Mike Waltner, religious nonprofit program coordinator

Primary results

Democratic primary results [1]
PartyCandidateVotes%
Democratic Kathy Dahlkemper 43,858 44.91
Democratic Kyle Foust24,67225.27
Democratic Tom Myers18,58419.03
Democratic Mike Waltner10,53210.79
Total votes97,646 100.00

Republican primary

Candidates

Nominee

Primary results

Republican primary results [1]
PartyCandidateVotes%
Republican Phil English (incumbent) 42,636 100.00
Total votes42,636 100.00

Predictions

SourceRankingAs of
The Cook Political Report [2] TossupNovember 6, 2008
Rothenberg [3] Tilt D (flip)November 2, 2008
Sabato's Crystal Ball [4] Lean D (flip)November 6, 2008
Real Clear Politics [5] TossupNovember 7, 2008
CQ Politics [6] TossupNovember 6, 2008
2008 Pennsylvania's 3rd congressional district election [7]
PartyCandidateVotes%
Democratic Kathy Dahlkemper 146,846 51.24
Republican Phil English (incumbent)139,75748.76
Total votes286,603 100.00
Democratic gain from Republican

District 4

2008 Pennsylvania's 4th congressional district election
Flag of Pennsylvania.svg
  2006
2010  
  Jason Altmire, official 110th Congress photo (cropped).jpg MelissaHartCongress.jpg
Nominee Jason Altmire Melissa Hart
Party Democratic Republican
Popular vote186,536147,411
Percentage55.86%44.14%

U.S. representative before election

Jason Altmire
Democratic

Elected U.S. representative

Jason Altmire
Democratic

PA-4th.gif

Democratic incumbent Jason Altmire again faced Republican Melissa Hart. In 2006, Altmire defeated incumbent Hart in a 52% to 48% upset. Hart had won 63% of the vote in 2004, when George W. Bush carried this suburban Pittsburgh district with 53%. In 2006, Pennsylvania was perhaps the most disastrous state for incumbent GOP House members, who lost four seats here. Hart ran unopposed for the Republican nomination in 2008 and attempted to use her public service credentials to regain her seat. She previously gained a reputation for appealing to moderate voters despite a conservative track record. She again lost to Altmire, this time by a wider margin than two years prior, with a 56–44% vote.

Altmire maintained close ties with organized labor, possessed experience with the health care issues that are important in a region with an older population, and was supported by the NRA. [9]

Democratic primary

Candidates

Nominee

Primary results

Democratic primary results [1]
PartyCandidateVotes%
Democratic Jason Altmire (incumbent) 112,049 100.00
Total votes112,049 100.00

Republican primary

Candidates

Nominee

Primary results

Republican primary results [1]
PartyCandidateVotes%
Republican Melissa Hart 42,854 100.00
Total votes42,854 100.00

Predictions

SourceRankingAs of
The Cook Political Report [2] Likely DNovember 6, 2008
Rothenberg [3] Safe DNovember 2, 2008
Sabato's Crystal Ball [4] Lean DNovember 6, 2008
Real Clear Politics [5] Safe DNovember 7, 2008
CQ Politics [6] Likely DNovember 6, 2008

General election

2008 Pennsylvania's 4th congressional district election [7]
PartyCandidateVotes%
Democratic Jason Altmire (incumbent) 186,536 55.86
Republican Melissa Hart 147,41144.14
Total votes333,947 100.00
Democratic hold

District 5

2008 Pennsylvania's 5th congressional district election
Flag of Pennsylvania.svg
  2006
2010  
  Glenn Thompson, official portrait, 113th Congress (cropped).jpg 3x4.svg
Nominee Glenn "G.T." Thompson Mark McCracken
Party Republican Democratic
Popular vote155,513112,509
Percentage56.72%41.04%

2008 PA-5 Election Results.svg
County results
Thompson:     50-60%     60-70%     70-80%
McCracken:     40-50%

U.S. Representative before election

John E. Peterson
Republican

Elected U.S. Representative

Glenn "G.T." Thompson
Republican

PA-5th.gif

Democrat Mark McCracken, Clearfield County commissioner is running against Republican and Centre County GOP chair Glenn "G.T." Thompson in this open seat election. James Fryman represented the Libertarian Party.

Republican John Peterson announced his intention to retire on January 3, 2007, paving the way for a contentious open seat election. Nine Republicans were in the race for the nomination. Four men emerged as top tier candidates: Thompson, hotel developer Matt Shaner, financial consultant Derek Walker, and former Woodland Township supervisor Jeff Strohmann. Also on the Republican ballot were mortgage broker John Kupa, Clarion mayor John Stroup, Elk County coroner Lou Radkowski, former Centre County commissioner Chris Exarchos, and minister Keith Richardson. [10] Thompson won this hard-fought 9-way primary with just 19% of the vote, in large part due to the late endorsement of Peterson who got involved in the primary campaign 10 days prior to election day. Walker and Shaner proved to be superior fundraisers and aired numerous television and radio commercials to counter Peterson's endorsement of Thompson. The Republican primary included many personal attacks, with Shaner targeting Walker as being political incompetent and Walker referring to a DUI incident involving Shaner. Walker and Thompson were very close in the polls on Election Day, but Thompson received a late boost because of his political track record in Centre County, the district's population center.

McCracken, Lock Haven mayor Richard Vilello, and Bill Cahir, a journalist and Marine Corps veteran of the Iraq War, battled for the Democratic nomination. [10] McCracken won 40% in a hard-fought Democratic race that received much less attention. Despite presenting an open seat opportunity, this race was always viewed as safe for the Republicans, who have generally won over 65% in this district. Prior to 2006, Peterson had previously run in three straight elections without Democratic opposition.

Democratic primary

Candidates

Nominee

Eliminated in primary

Primary results

Democratic primary results [1]
PartyCandidateVotes%
Democratic Mark McCracken 30,358 40.92
Democratic Bill Cahir 25,92034.93
Democratic Richard Vilello17,92124.15
Total votes74,199 100.00

Republican primary

Candidates

Nominee

Eliminated in primary

  • Chris Exarchos, former Centre County commissioner
  • John Krupa, mortgage broker
  • Lou Radkowski, coroner of Elk County
  • Keith Richardson, minister
  • Matt Shaner, hotel developer
  • Jeffrey Stroehmann, former Woodland Township supervisor
  • John Stroup, mayor of Clarion
  • Derek Walker, financial consultant

Primary results

Republican primary results [1]
PartyCandidateVotes%
Republican Glenn Thompson 13,988 19.18
Republican Derek Walker13,15318.03
Republican Matt Shaner12,86017.63
Republican Jeffrey Stroehmann9,92113.60
Republican Keith Richardson7,0949.72
Republican Lou Radkowski5,0836.97
Republican John Stroup4,5506.24
Republican Chris Exarchos4,3766.00
Republican John Krupa1,9162.63
Total votes72,941 100.00

Predictions

SourceRankingAs of
The Cook Political Report [2] Likely RNovember 6, 2008
Rothenberg [3] Safe RNovember 2, 2008
Sabato's Crystal Ball [4] Safe RNovember 6, 2008
Real Clear Politics [5] Safe RNovember 7, 2008
CQ Politics [6] Safe RNovember 6, 2008

General election

2008 Pennsylvania's 5th congressional district election [7]
PartyCandidateVotes%
Republican Glenn Thompson 155,513 56.72
Democratic Mark McCracken112,50941.04
Libertarian James Fryman6,1552.24
Total votes274,177 100.00
Republican hold

District 6

2008 Pennsylvania's 6th congressional district election
Flag of Pennsylvania.svg
  2006
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  Rep. Jim Gerlach.jpg 3x4.svg
Nominee Jim Gerlach Bob Roggio
Party Republican Democratic
Popular vote179,423164,952
Percentage52.10%47.90%

U.S. representative before election

Jim Gerlach
Republican

Elected U.S. representative

Jim Gerlach
Republican


United States House of Representatives, Pennsylvania District 6 map.png

Three term Republican Jim Gerlach faced Democrat Bob Roggio (campaign website), a retired businessman from Charlestown who ran unopposed for the Democratic nomination both of his opponents dropped out of the race. [11] Gerlach has become used to winning close elections, having survived threats from governor's assistant (and son of the former US Senator) Dan Wofford and attorney Lois Murphy in 2004 and 2006 with approximately 51% each year. The district is a classic swing district that went to John Kerry with 51% in 2004. However, Roggio did not have the name recognition nor the funding that Murphy had when waging her campaign, which made his candidacy more difficult than past challengers.

However, due to the tough environment in 2008 for Republicans, and the fact that Democrats outnumber Republicans this year for the first time in this district, the race was close. [12] In addition, Gerlach has had some trouble shaking a connection to ousted Republican leader Tom Delay, who provided contributions to Gerlach through his PAC. However, Gerlach has a relatively moderate voting record and is seen as a tough campaigner who is knowledgeable in the suburban issues that are important in his district.

Democratic primary

Nominee

  • Bob Roggio, retired businessman

Primary results

Democratic primary results [1]
PartyCandidateVotes%
Democratic Bob Roggio 82,540 100.00
Total votes82,540 100.0

Republican primary

Nominee

Primary results

Republican primary results [1]
PartyCandidateVotes%
Republican Jim Gerlach (incumbent) 39,232 100.00
Total votes39,232 100.00

Predictions

SourceRankingAs of
The Cook Political Report [2] Likely RNovember 6, 2008
Rothenberg [3] Safe RNovember 2, 2008
Sabato's Crystal Ball [4] Lean RNovember 6, 2008
Real Clear Politics [5] Safe RNovember 7, 2008
CQ Politics [6] Likely RNovember 6, 2008

General election

2008 Pennsylvania's 6th congressional district election [7]
PartyCandidateVotes%
Republican Jim Gerlach (incumbent) 179,423 52.10
Democratic Bob Roggio164,95247.90
Total votes344,375 100.00
Republican hold

District 7

2008 Pennsylvania's 7th congressional district election
Flag of Pennsylvania.svg
  2006
2010  
  Congressman Sestak Official Congressional headshot.jpg Craig Williams.jpg
Nominee Joe Sestak Craig Williams
Party Democratic Republican
Popular vote209,955142,362
Percentage59.59%40.41%

U.S. representative before election

Joe Sestak
Democratic

Elected U.S. representative

Joe Sestak
Democratic

PACongressionalDistrict7.png

Incumbent Democratic Joe Sestak defeated Republican nominee Wendell Craig Williams, winning 59.6% of the vote. [13] In 2006 Sestak defeated incumbent Curt Weldon, who was being investigated for misuse of campaign funds, by 56% to 44%. Sestak used his military credentials as a retired vice admiral to present himself as a strong leader and as an ethical alternative to a Republican Party that has faced scandal within his district. Because of his moderate voting record, reputation as a tireless worker, and military background, Sestak was expected to have a large advantage over any Republican opponent in 2008. The NRCC initially had trouble finding any top-tier candidates, and eventually settled on Iraq War veteran and attorney Craig Williams.

Democratic primary

Nominee

Primary results

Democratic primary results [1]
PartyCandidateVotes%
Democratic Joe Sestak 91,272 100.00
Total votes91,272 100.00

Republican primary

Nominee

Primary results

Republican primary results [1]
PartyCandidateVotes%
Republican Wendell Craig Williams 52,733 100.00
Total votes52,733 100.00


Predictions

SourceRankingAs of
The Cook Political Report [2] Safe DNovember 6, 2008
Rothenberg [3] Safe DNovember 2, 2008
Sabato's Crystal Ball [4] Safe DNovember 6, 2008
Real Clear Politics [5] Safe DNovember 7, 2008
CQ Politics [6] Safe DNovember 6, 2008

General election

2008 Pennsylvania's 7th congressional district election [7]
PartyCandidateVotes%
Democratic Joe Sestak (incumbent) 209,955 59.59
Republican Wendell Craig Williams 142,36240.41
Total votes352,317 100.00
Democratic hold

District 8

2008 Pennsylvania's 8th congressional district election
Flag of Pennsylvania.svg
  2006
2010  
  Patrick Murphy official 110th Congress photo.jpg 3x4.svg
Nominee Patrick Murphy Tom Manion
Party Democratic Republican
Popular vote197,869145,103
Percentage56.77%41.63%

U.S. representative before election

Patrick Murphy
Democratic

Elected U.S. representative

Patrick Murphy
Democratic

PACongressionalDistrict8.png

Democratic incumbent Patrick Murphy, an Iraq War veteran, won against Republican nominee Tom Manion, a businessman and retired Marine, and Independent Tom Lingenfelter.

Murphy narrowly won in 2006, when he unseated one-term Republican Mike Fitzpatrick by 1,518 votes. Manion, a retired Marine Colonel and executive at Johnson and Johnson, ran unopposed in the Republican primary in April. Significant national attention has been drawn to the race because of the Iraq War connections of both candidates. Murphy is a veteran and a strong critic of the war, while Manion, whose son, 1st Lt. Travis Manion, was killed in Iraq in April 2007, supports the war. This district contains Bucks County and a small part of Northern Philadelphia and Montgomery County. Once considered a safe Republican district, it has recently been trending more Democratic. Registered Democrats narrowly outnumber registered Republicans as of August 2008, due in large part to voter registration drives connected with the Democratic presidential primary in Pennsylvania.

Democratic primary

Nominee

Primary results

Democratic primary results [1]
PartyCandidateVotes%
Democratic Patrick Murphy (incumbent) 100,788 100.00
Total votes100,788 100.00

Republican primary

Nominee

Primary results

Republican primary results [1]
PartyCandidateVotes%
Republican Tom Manion 35,610 100.00
Total votes35,610 100.00

Predictions

SourceRankingAs of
The Cook Political Report [2] Safe DNovember 6, 2008
Rothenberg [3] Safe DNovember 2, 2008
Sabato's Crystal Ball [4] Lean DNovember 6, 2008
Real Clear Politics [5] Safe DNovember 7, 2008
CQ Politics [6] Likely DNovember 6, 2008

General election

2008 Pennsylvania's 8th congressional district election [7]
PartyCandidateVotes%
Democratic Patrick Murphy (incumbent) 197,869 56.77
Republican Tom Manion145,10341.63
Independent Tom Lingenfelter5,5431.59
Total votes348,515 100.00
Democratic hold

District 9

2008 Pennsylvania's 9th congressional district election
Flag of Pennsylvania.svg
  2006
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  Bill Shuster, official portrait, 109th Congress (cropped).jpg 3x4.svg
Nominee Bill Shuster Tony Barr
Party Republican Democratic
Popular vote174,95198,735
Percentage63.92%36.08%

U.S. representative before election

Bill Shuster
Republican

Elected U.S. representative

Bill Shuster
Republican

PACongressionalDistrict9.png

Three term Bill Shuster (R) won re-election with 64% of the vote. Shuster won 60.3% of the vote in 2006; George W. Bush carried the district with over 67% in 2004. Shuster also held the advantage of name recognition, as he is the son of a powerful congressman. The district is also the most Republican in Pennsylvania, further giving Shuster an advantage. His Democratic opponent was again 2006 candidate educator Tony Barr (campaign website).

Democratic primary

Nominee

  • Tony Barr, 2006 Democratic nominee

Primary results

Republican primary results [1]
PartyCandidateVotes%
Democratic Tony Barr 58,522 100.00
Total votes58,522 100.00

Republican primary

Nominee

Primary results

Republican primary results [1]
PartyCandidateVotes%
Republican Bill Shuster (incumbent) 57,890 100.00
Total votes57,890 100.00

Predictions

SourceRankingAs of
The Cook Political Report [2] Safe RNovember 6, 2008
Rothenberg [3] Safe RNovember 2, 2008
Sabato's Crystal Ball [4] Safe RNovember 6, 2008
Real Clear Politics [5] Safe RNovember 7, 2008
CQ Politics [6] Safe RNovember 6, 2008

General election

2008 Pennsylvania's 9th congressional district election [7]
PartyCandidateVotes%
Republican Bill Shuster (incumbent) 174,951 63.92
Democratic Tony Barr98,73536.08
Total votes273,686 100.00
Republican hold

District 10

2008 Pennsylvania's 10th congressional district election
Flag of Pennsylvania.svg
  2006
2010  
  Chris Carney (cropped).jpg 3x4.svg
Nominee Chris Carney Chris Hackett
Party Democratic Republican
Popular vote160,837124,681
Percentage56.33%43.67%

2008 PA-10 Election Results.svg
County Results
Carney:     50-60%     60-70%
Hackett:     50-60%

U.S. Representative before election

Chris Carney
Democratic

Elected U.S. Representative

Chris Carney
Democratic

PACongressionalDistrict10.png

Democratic incumbent Chris Carney defeated Republican staffing company executive Chris Hackett by a margin of 56% to 44%. CQ Politics forecasted the race as 'Leans Democratic' prior to Carney's victory. The win on the part of the Democratic congressman coincided with John McCain winning 54 percent of the vote in the district as opposed to Democrat Barack Obama's 46 percent.

Carney was initially thought to have been facing a difficult reelection bid in this heavily Republican district, which he won after widely publicized allegations of incumbent Republican Don Sherwood's extramarital affair with and alleged abuse of Cynthia Ore. Carney defeated Sherwood 53% to 47%. However, President George W. Bush won the 10th District 60% to 40% in 2004.

Two Republicans fought for the nomination: staffing company executive Chris Hackett, who gained the endorsement of conservative organizations and manufacturing executive Dan Meuser, who has credibility as a disabled rights activist. While battling for the nomination, Meuser accused Hackett of wavering on his pro-life stance, while Hackett painted Meuser as associated with unpopular politicians. Hackett won a tough primary with 52% of the vote, which drained many of his resources for the general election.

Carney, throughout the general election, was the favorite to retain his seat but the vote was expected to be somewhat close. The traditionally Republican leanings of the district were advantageous for Hackett, but Pennsylvania as a whole has been trending Democratic recently, having voted for the Democratic nominee for president in every election since 1992. The state ultimately backed Obama that year by a ten-point margin.[ citation needed ] Carney also has a strong military background and used his membership in the Blue Dog Coalition, a group of moderate Democrats that promote compromise, as a boost. Carney easily beat Hackett by a twelve-point margin and was aided by a stronger than anticipated vote for the national Democratic presidential ticket in the district. Whereas John Kerry and John Edwards in 2004 received merely 40 percent of the vote in the 10th district, Barack Obama and Joe Biden received 46 percent of the vote.

Democratic primary

Nominee

Primary results

Democratic primary results [1]
PartyCandidateVotes%
Democratic Chris Carney (incumbent) 71,988 100.00
Total votes71,988 100.00

Republican primary

Nominee

  • Chris Hackett, staffing company executive

Eliminated in primary

Primary results

Republican primary results [1]
PartyCandidateVotes%
Republican Chris Hackett 34,129 52.32
Republican Dan Meuser 31,10247.68
Total votes65,231 100.00

Predictions

SourceRankingAs of
The Cook Political Report [2] Lean DNovember 6, 2008
Rothenberg [3] Likely DNovember 2, 2008
Sabato's Crystal Ball [4] Lean DNovember 6, 2008
Real Clear Politics [5] TossupNovember 7, 2008
CQ Politics [6] Lean DNovember 6, 2008

General election

2008 Pennsylvania's 10th congressional district election [7]
PartyCandidateVotes%
Democratic Chris Carney (incumbent) 160,837 56.33
Republican Chris Hackett124,68143.67
Total votes285,518 100.00
Democratic hold

District 11

2008 Pennsylvania's 11th congressional district election
Flag of Pennsylvania.svg
  2006
2010  
  Rep. Paul Kanjorski.jpg Lou Barletta (cropped).jpg
Nominee Paul Kanjorski Lou Barletta
Party Democratic Republican
Popular vote146,379137,151
Percentage51.63%48.37%

U.S. representative before election

Paul Kanjorski
Democratic

Elected U.S. representative

Paul Kanjorski
Democratic

PACongressionalDistrict11.png

Twelve term Democratic incumbent Paul Kanjorski (D) was challenged by Republican Lou Barletta, the mayor of Hazleton. Kanjorksi generally won reelection easily, considering the Democratic leanings of the district. John Kerry won this district in 2004 with 52% and Kanjorski was reelected with 72.5% of the vote in 2006. However, he faced one of the toughest elections of his career against Barletta, a figure who made the national spotlight for the anti-illegal immigration policies he promoted as mayor. He was unopposed for the Republican nomination and has national name recognition for his stance which may have helped or hurt him with different voting groups in the election. Kanjorksi came under scrutiny for several comments he has made during the recent Congress, including his quote that the Democrats stretched the facts on the Iraq War to provide a bigger advantage during the 2006 election cycle.

Democratic primary

Nominee

Primary results

Democratic primary results [1]
PartyCandidateVotes%
Democratic Paul Kanjorski (incumbent) 93,120 100.00
Total votes93,120 100.00

Republican primary

Nominee

Primary results

Republican primary results [1]
PartyCandidateVotes%
Republican Lou Barletta 27,710 100.00
Total votes27,710 100.00

Predictions

SourceRankingAs of
The Cook Political Report [2] TossupNovember 6, 2008
Rothenberg [3] TossupNovember 2, 2008
Sabato's Crystal Ball [4] Lean R (flip)November 6, 2008
Real Clear Politics [5] Lean R (flip)November 7, 2008
CQ Politics [6] TossupNovember 6, 2008

General election

2008 Pennsylvania's 11th congressional district election [7]
PartyCandidateVotes%
Democratic Paul Kanjorski (incumbent) 146,379 51.63
Republican Lou Barletta 137,15148.37
Total votes283,530 100.00
Democratic hold

District 12

2008 Pennsylvania's 12th congressional district election
Flag of Pennsylvania.svg
 2006
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  John Murtha portrait 2008 (cropped).jpg 3x4.svg
Nominee John Murtha William Russell
Party Democratic Republican
Popular vote155,267113,120
Percentage57.85%42.15%

U.S. representative before election

John Murtha
Democratic

Elected U.S. representative

John Murtha
Democratic

PACongressionalDistrict12.png

Sixteen term incumbent John Murtha (D) ran against Retired Lieutenant Colonel William Russell (R), who won the Republican nomination after staging a successful write-in campaign. [14] CQ Politics forecasts the race as 'Safe Democrat,' but the race tightened after Murtha made well-publicized comments referring to Western Pennsylvania as a "racist" and "redneck" area. [15] Murtha's comments were spoofed in the October 25, 2008 episode of Saturday Night Live in a segment entitled "Sen. Biden and Rep. Murtha Say Crazy Things in Johnstown, Pa." [16] By October, Russell out-raised and outspent Murtha for a whole week. [17] The district has a Cook Partisan Voting Index score of R+1.

Democratic primary

Nominee

Primary results

Democratic primary results [1]
PartyCandidateVotes%
Democratic John Murtha (incumbent) 112,082 100.00
Total votes112,082 100.00

Predictions

SourceRankingAs of
The Cook Political Report [2] Lean DNovember 6, 2008
Rothenberg [3] Likely DNovember 2, 2008
Sabato's Crystal Ball [4] Lean DNovember 6, 2008
Real Clear Politics [5] Lean DNovember 7, 2008
CQ Politics [6] Lean DNovember 6, 2008

General election

2008 Pennsylvania's 12th congressional district election [7]
PartyCandidateVotes%
Democratic John Murtha (incumbent) 155,268 57.85
Republican William Russell113,12042.15
Total votes268,388 100.00
Democratic hold

District 13

2008 Pennsylvania's 13th congressional district election
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  2006
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  Allyson Schwartz official photo.jpg 3x4.svg
Nominee Allyson Schwartz Marina Kats
Party Democratic Republican
Popular vote196,868108,271
Percentage62.79%34.53%

U.S. representative before election

Allyson Schwartz
Democratic

Elected U.S. representative

Allyson Schwartz
Democratic

PACongressionalDistrict13.png

While two term Democrat Allyson Schwartz was a target for Republicans in the 2008 race, her seat was expected to be relatively safe. She did not face a serious challenge in 2006 against Raj Bhakta in this Democratic-leaning district. 2007 Philadelphia mayoral candidate Al Taubenberger and state Senator Stewart Greenleaf pondered running on the Republican ticket, but did not enter the race. Attorney Marina Kats ran unopposed for the Republican nomination. [18] Kats was underfunded and without name recognition, while running against and incumbent with a deep warchest of funds, which presented a crucial advantage in an expensive media market. This seat was considered to be noncompetitive.

Democratic primary

Nominee

Primary results

Democratic primary results [1]
PartyCandidateVotes%
Democratic Allyson Schwartz (incumbent) 44,402 100.00
Total votes44,402 100.00

Republican primary

Nominee

  • Marina Kats, attorney

Primary results

Republican primary results [1]
PartyCandidateVotes%
Republican Marina Kats 27,169 100.00
Total votes27,169 100.00


Predictions

SourceRankingAs of
The Cook Political Report [2] Safe DNovember 6, 2008
Rothenberg [3] Safe DNovember 2, 2008
Sabato's Crystal Ball [4] Safe DNovember 6, 2008
Real Clear Politics [5] Safe DNovember 7, 2008
CQ Politics [6] Safe DNovember 6, 2008

General election

2008 Pennsylvania's 13th congressional district election [7]
PartyCandidateVotes%
Democratic Allyson Schwartz (incumbent) 196,868 62.79
Republican Marina Kats108,27134.53
Constitution John McDermott8,3742.67
Total votes313,513 100.00
Democratic hold

District 14

2008 Pennsylvania's 14th congressional district election
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  2006
2010  
  Michael F. Doyle, official portrait, 113th Congress (cropped).jpg 3x4.svg
Nominee Mike Doyle Titus North
Party Democratic Green
Popular vote242,32623,214
Percentage91.26%8.74%

U.S. representative before election

Mike Doyle
Democratic

Elected U.S. representative

Mike Doyle
Democratic

PACongressionalDistrict14.png

Seven term incumbent Mike Doyle (D) ran for another term. For the fourth straight election, Doyle did not face a Republican opponent, although Green Party candidate, professor Titus North, was be on the ballot for the second straight year. Doyle represented a district that gave John Kerry 69% of the vote in 2004 and his seat was considered to be noncompetitive. The congressman presented a strongly pro-union image, while avoiding hot button social issues, which allowed him to remain popular and noncontroversial.

Democratic primary

Nominee

Primary results

Democratic primary results [1]
PartyCandidateVotes%
Democratic Mike Doyle (incumbent) 134,298 100.00
Total votes134,298 100.00

Predictions

SourceRankingAs of
The Cook Political Report [2] Safe DNovember 6, 2008
Rothenberg [3] Safe DNovember 2, 2008
Sabato's Crystal Ball [4] Safe DNovember 6, 2008
Real Clear Politics [5] Safe DNovember 7, 2008
CQ Politics [6] Safe DNovember 6, 2008

General election

2008 Pennsylvania's 14th congressional district election [7]
PartyCandidateVotes%
Democratic Mike Doyle (incumbent) 242,326 91.26
Green Titus North23,2148.74
Total votes265,540 100.00
Democratic hold

District 15

2008 Pennsylvania's 15th congressional district election
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  2006
2010  
  Charlie Dent, official portrait, 112th Congress (cropped).jpg 3x4.svg
Nominee Charlie Dent Sam Bennett
Party Republican Democratic
Popular vote181,433128,333
Percentage58.57%41.43%

U.S. representative before election

Charlie Dent
Republican

Elected U.S. representative

Charlie Dent
Republican

PACongressionalDistrict15.png

Republican incumbent Charlie Dent was challenged by Allentown Democratic Party Chair Sam Bennett. Although Dent was targeted by the Democrats for a tough race in 2006, his seat was ultimately relatively safe in 2008. In 2004, he won only 53% of the vote against a political newcomer with no political experience, but did significantly better in his bid for a second term. His district covers the Lehigh Valley region and is politically marginal, narrowly going to John Kerry with 50% of the vote in 2004.

Lehigh County Executive Don Cunningham, and state Democratic Party Chairman T.J. Rooney declined to run for the Democratic nomination, leaving Sam Bennett as the sole member of her party's ticket. Bennett was not considered to be as strong of a candidate as Democrats would like, which helped this seat fall out of contention. Although Democrats have an advantage in registration in the district and that Pennsylvania as a whole is trending Democratic, Dent projects a moderate image. His relationship with popular liberal then-Republican Arlen Specter also aids Dent.

Democratic primary

Nominee

  • Sam Bennett, Allentown Democratic Party chair

Primary results

Democratic primary results [1]
PartyCandidateVotes%
Democratic Sam Bennett 73,734 100.00
Total votes73,734 100.00

Republican primary

Nominee

Primary results

Republican primary results [1]
PartyCandidateVotes%
Republican Charlie Dent (incumbent) 27,875 100.00
Total votes27,875 100.00

Predictions

SourceRankingAs of
The Cook Political Report [2] Likely RNovember 6, 2008
Rothenberg [3] Safe RNovember 2, 2008
Sabato's Crystal Ball [4] Lean RNovember 6, 2008
Real Clear Politics [5] Safe RNovember 7, 2008
CQ Politics [6] Likely RNovember 6, 2008

General election

2008 Pennsylvania's 15th congressional district election [7]
PartyCandidateVotes%
Republican Charlie Dent (incumbent) 181,433 58.57
Democratic Sam Bennett128,33341.43
Total votes309,766 100.00
Republican hold

District 16

2008 Pennsylvania's 16th congressional district election
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  2006
2010  
  Joe Pitts, official portrait, 113th Congress (cropped).jpg 3x4.svg
Nominee Joe Pitts Bruce Slater
Party Republican Democratic
Popular vote170,329120,193
Percentage55.82%39.39%

U.S. representative before election

Joe Pitts
Republican

Elected U.S. representative

Joe Pitts
Republican

PACongressionalDistrict16.png

Six-term Republican incumbent Joe Pitts ran for reelection against Democratic nominee Bruce Slater (campaign website [ usurped ]), a U.S. Navy veteran, historic restoration contractor, democratic committee person and community activist who ran unopposed in the primary. Green Party candidate John Murphy, a management consultant and Constitution Party candidate Dan Frank (campaign website) were also on the ballot. Pitts had the worst showing of his congressional career in 2008, winning 55.8% of the vote. However, he represents a historically conservative district which gave 61% of its votes to George W. Bush in 2004, and has not attracted a top-tier Democratic challenger.

Democratic primary

Nominee

  • Bruce Slater, U.S. Navy veteran and building contractor

Primary results

Democratic primary results [1]
PartyCandidateVotes%
Democratic Bruce Slater 59,246 100.00
Total votes59,246 100.00

Republican primary

Nominee

Primary results

Republican primary results [1]
PartyCandidateVotes%
Republican Joe Pitts (incumbent) 49,740 100.00
Total votes49,740 100.00

Predictions

SourceRankingAs of
The Cook Political Report [2] Safe RNovember 6, 2008
Rothenberg [3] Safe RNovember 2, 2008
Sabato's Crystal Ball [4] Safe RNovember 6, 2008
Real Clear Politics [5] Safe RNovember 7, 2008
CQ Politics [6] Safe RNovember 6, 2008

General election

2008 Pennsylvania's 16th congressional district election [7]
PartyCandidateVotes%
Republican Joe Pitts (incumbent) 170,329 55.82
Democratic Bruce Slater120,19339.39
Green John Murphy11,7683.86
Constitution Dan Frank2,8770.94
Total votes305,167 100.00
Republican hold

District 17

2008 Pennsylvania's 17th congressional district election
Flag of Pennsylvania.svg
  2006
2010  
  Tim Holden.jpg 3x4.svg
Nominee Tim Holden Toni Gilhooley
Party Democratic Republican
Popular vote192,699109,909
Percentage63.68%36.32%

U.S. representative before election

Tim Holden
Democratic

Elected U.S. representative

Tim Holden
Democratic

PACongressionalDistrict17.png

Eight term incumbent Tim Holden (D) ran against Toni Gilhooley (R), a retired Pennsylvania state trooper. The 17th congressional district gave George W. Bush 58% of its votes and has historically been dominated by Republicans. However, Holden upset the district's 10-term incumbent, George Gekas, in 2002 after being drawn into the district (he'd previously represented a Reading-based district) and hasn't faced substantive opposition since then. He is a member of the moderate Blue Dog Coalition and opposes abortion and gun control. Gilhooley was a conservative candidate. Holden has used his overwhelming support in Schuylkill County, his home county, to make up for past deficits in areas such as Lebanon County and Dauphin County.

Democratic primary

Nominee

Primary results

Democratic primary results [1]
PartyCandidateVotes%
Democratic Tim Holden (incumbent) 79,551 100.00
Total votes79,551 100.00

Republican primary

Nominee

  • Toni Gilhooley, state trooper

Primary results

Republican primary results [1]
PartyCandidateVotes%
Republican Toni Gilhooley 49,123 100.00
Total votes49,123 100.00

Predictions

SourceRankingAs of
The Cook Political Report [2] Safe DNovember 6, 2008
Rothenberg [3] Safe DNovember 2, 2008
Sabato's Crystal Ball [4] Safe DNovember 6, 2008
Real Clear Politics [5] Safe DNovember 7, 2008
CQ Politics [6] Safe DNovember 6, 2008

General election

2008 Pennsylvania's 17th congressional district election [7]
PartyCandidateVotes%
Democratic Tim Holden (incumbent) 192,699 63.68
Republican Toni Gilhooley109,90936.32
Total votes302,608 100.00
Democratic hold

District 18

2008 Pennsylvania's 18th congressional district election
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  2006
2010  
  Reptimmurphy.jpg 3x4.svg
Nominee Tim Murphy Steve O'Donnell
Party Republican Democratic
Popular vote213,349119,661
Percentage64.07%35.93%

U.S. representative before election

Tim Murphy
Republican

Elected U.S. representative

Tim Murphy
Republican

PACongressionalDistrict18.png

Three term Republican Tim Murphy was challenged by Democrat Steve O'Donnell, a Monroeville health care executive. Murphy was reelected in 2006 with 58% of the vote against a little-known Democrat. He represents a suburban Pittsburgh district that George W. Bush won with 54% of the vote but that has a strong Democratic history.

The DCCC tried to persuade Allegheny County Executive Dan Onorato to run, but he showed no interest in the race. Business consultant Beth Hafer, whose mother Barbara Hafer is a longtime state official, was then expected to be the front runner for the Democratic nomination. Insurance executive Brien Wall and Monroeville health care executive Steve O'Donnell also ran. O'Donnell won an upset victory with 45% of the vote in a somewhat under the radar election. Although O'Donnell should make the race competitive, Murphy has a significant advantage because of name recognition and a moderate image.

Democratic primary

Nominee

  • Steve O'Donnell, Monroeville health care firm executive

Eliminated in primary

  • Beth Hafer, business consultant and daughter of Barbara Hafer
  • Brien Wall, insurance executive

Primary results

Democratic primary results [1]
PartyCandidateVotes%
Democratic Steve O'Donnell 52,247 44.96
Democratic Beth Hafer48,22441.50
Democratic Brien Wall15,73313.54
Total votes116,204 100.00

Republican primary

Nominee

Primary results

Republican primary results [1]
PartyCandidateVotes%
Republican Tim Murphy (incumbent) 39,780 100.00
Total votes39,780 100.00

Predictions

SourceRankingAs of
The Cook Political Report [2] Likely RNovember 6, 2008
Rothenberg [3] Safe RNovember 2, 2008
Sabato's Crystal Ball [4] Lean RNovember 6, 2008
Real Clear Politics [5] Safe RNovember 7, 2008
CQ Politics [6] Likely RNovember 6, 2008

General election

2008 Pennsylvania's 18th congressional district election [7]
PartyCandidateVotes%
Republican Tim Murphy (incumbent) 213,349 64.07
Democratic Steve O'Donnell119,66135.93
Total votes333,010 100.00
Republican hold

District 19

2008 Pennsylvania's 19th congressional district election
Flag of Pennsylvania.svg
  2006
2010  
  Todd Russell Platts (cropped).jpg 3x4.svg
Nominee Todd Platts Phil Avillo
Party Republican Democratic
Popular vote218,862109,533
Percentage66.65%33.35%

U.S. representative before election

Todd Platts
Republican

Elected U.S. representative

Todd Platts
Republican

PACongressionalDistrict19.png

Four term incumbent Todd Russell Platts (R) ran for another term. His Democratic opponent was 2006 candidate and college professor Phil Avillo (campaign website), who was unopposed in the party primary. Platts represented a highly conservative district, which gave 64% of the vote to George W. Bush in 2004. Avillo, meanwhile, raised little money for his campaign. This race was expected to be noncompetitive.

Democratic primary

Nominee

  • Philip Avillo, college professor and 2006 Democratic Party nominee

Primary results

Democratic primary results [1]
PartyCandidateVotes%
Democratic Philip Avillo 69,068 100.00
Total votes69,068 100.00

Republican primary

Nominee

Primary results

Republican primary results [1]
PartyCandidateVotes%
Republican Todd Platts (incumbent) 57,198 100.00
Total votes57,198 100.00

Predictions

SourceRankingAs of
The Cook Political Report [2] Safe RNovember 6, 2008
Rothenberg [3] Safe RNovember 2, 2008
Sabato's Crystal Ball [4] Safe RNovember 6, 2008
Real Clear Politics [5] Safe RNovember 7, 2008
CQ Politics [6] Safe RNovember 6, 2008

General election

2008 Pennsylvania's 10th congressional district election [7]
PartyCandidateVotes%
Republican Todd Platts (incumbent) 218,862 66.65
Democratic Phil Avillo Jr.109,53333.35
Total votes328,395 100.00
Republican hold

Notes

  1. Dropped out due to lack of funding. Replaced by Adam Lang.

References

  1. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 "Pennsylvania Elections - 2008 General Primary (Official Returns)". Pennsylvania Department of State . Retrieved August 13, 2025.
  2. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 "2008 Competitive House Race Chart". House: Race Ratings. The Cook Political Report. November 6, 2006. Archived from the original on November 6, 2008. Retrieved November 20, 2023.
  3. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 "2008 House Ratings". House Ratings. The Rothenberg Political Report. November 2, 2006. Archived from the original on November 6, 2008. Retrieved November 20, 2023.
  4. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 "2008 House". Sabato's Crystal Ball. November 6, 2008. Archived from the original on November 6, 2008. Retrieved November 20, 2023.
  5. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 "Battle for the House of Representatives". realclearpolitics.com. Real Clear Politics. November 7, 2008. Archived from the original on December 17, 2008. Retrieved December 9, 2023.
  6. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 "Race Ratings Chart: House". cqpolitics.com. Congressional Quarterly Inc. Archived from the original on November 6, 2008. Retrieved November 20, 2023.
  7. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 "Federal Elections 2008 – Senate and House" (PDF). Federal Election Commission . Washington, D.C. July 2009.
  8. "The Herald, Sharon, Pa. - Crowded field eyes 3rd Congressional District seat". Archived from the original on September 26, 2008. Retrieved January 15, 2008.
  9. "NRA endorses Altmire in race against Hart". archive.triblive.com. July 25, 2008. Retrieved January 15, 2022.
  10. 1 2 "Lehigh Valley News, Easton News, Nazareth News, Bethlehem News, Phillipsburg News, Allentown News plus Lehigh Valley Sports, Weather, Entertainment & Events - lehighvalleylive..."
  11. "Pennsylvania: Democratic Businessman Has Gerlach to Himself". Roll Call. February 26, 2008. Archived from the original on April 20, 2021. Retrieved January 15, 2022.
  12. Infield, Tom (June 23, 2008). "U.S. Rep. Gerlach in unusual position". The Inquirer. Archived from the original on January 15, 2022. Retrieved December 29, 2020.
  13. "Sestak V. Williams". Commonwealth of PA - Elections Information. Archived from the original on May 9, 2011.
  14. "Murtha's GOP challenger denied primary ballot spot". Associated Press. February 27, 2008. Archived from the original on October 26, 2008.
  15. "Elections". Fox News. Archived from the original on October 26, 2008. Retrieved October 26, 2008.
  16. "Top of the Ticket". Los Angeles Times. October 26, 2008. Archived from the original on October 29, 2008. Retrieved October 26, 2008.
  17. "Russell raising, spending more money than Murtha » Local News » The Tribune Democrat, Johnstown, PA". Archived from the original on October 29, 2008. Retrieved October 26, 2008.
  18. "Kats Will Take On Schwartz In Montco Congressional Race". The Bulletin. February 27, 2008. Archived from the original on October 7, 2008. Retrieved June 27, 2008.