Another problem is her lack of name recognition in the majority of her district. IREY is from the farthest west part of the Congressional district, which is also the most gerrymandered district in the state. It includes the most heavily Democratic parts of five counties, stretching from the western border of PA to the center of the state.
The thing I don't understand is why he keeps getting support, as 90% of his pork goes to his hometown.
You're right about that district, it's one of the most gerrymandered I've seen.
It's about 2 to 1 Dem to Repub but there are many moderate to conservative Dems, Kerry only beat President Bush by about 2.5 points in the district in '04.
Diana Irey has a real shot at winning, I think she will. There are about 18% military families and veterans in the district.
Allegheny -- not the most heavily D part of county
Armstrong -- yes but voted for Bush
Cambria -- no
Fayette -- yes
Greene -- yes (whole county is in district 12 so it's the most heavily D part) -- voted for Bush though.
Indiana -- yes but voted for Bush
Somerset -- yes but voted for Bush
Washington -- yes
Westmoreland -- yes