Barber running for CD-2 seat in November

by David Safier

I just heard it from a political friend and had it confirmed on The Range: Ron Barber is planning to run for U.S. Rep in the newly formed Congressional District 2 after, hopefully, winning the CD-8 seat to finish out Gabby's term.

Dominos are going to be falling all over the place. Farley, Heinz and Aboud have to make the decision whether or not to challenge Barber. Most or all of them will most likely pull out of the race. So where will they go? They're all state legislators right now and can run again in November, though Aboud, who is termed out as a Senator would have to run for House. Will they? If so, where will they run? I'm sure we'll be hearing shortly.

All of a sudden, the CD-8 race of Barber vs. a Republican to be named on primary night takes on much greater significance. If Barber wins and wins handily in June, he'll be in a very good position to win in CD-2 as well, especially since it's a bit more Dem-friendly than CD-8. If he loses the CD-8 race, he'll be a damaged candidate in November. So my suggestion is, everyone has to work their asses off to guarantee a resounding Barber victory in June. I know he's going to be on my candidate calendar, and probably getting my financial contributions, more than I planned between now and June 12.