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Hollidaysburg businessman and longtime conservative activist Scott Barger has announced his campaign for state representative of the 80th Legislative District. He seeks to unseat state Rep. Jim Gregory, who is running for his fourth term.
During his campaign announcement Thursday at the U.S. Hotel Tavern in Hollidaysburg, Barger was introduced by former state Sen. John Eichelberger who said "let's finish the job we started a long time ago by electing a House member in the 80th District who will stand up for we the taxpayers."
Barger said taxpayers should ask a series of questions before delivering an "automatic re-election" to any incumbent.
Barger said voters should consider whether the incumbent gained or lost ground on behalf of the taxpayers, have they made a difference or did they just fill the seat, pass time and collect a paycheck?
Has the incumbent -- our elected representative -- stood in the line of fire against policies that oppose life, limit parental rights, take away religious freedom, increase the tax burden, or expand the power and reach of government in our lives, Barger questioned. "Where were they when the big fights came to them?"
Barger said "that it's time for a new state representative in the 80th District -- a steady voice for Constitutional principles, free people and the dignity of every person."
Barger, who was born and raised in Altoona and graduated from Blair County Christian School, earned degrees from Grace College and Grace Theological Seminary. After 15 years as a pastor, he retired from full-time ministry to help lead the family business as general manager and talk show host for WRTA.
Barger and his wife, Beth, a public school teacher, are raising their children in Hollidaysburg.
Barger launched a website outlining his full, "We the Taxpayers Agenda" at www.wethetaxpayers.org.