HEMPFIELD TOWNSHIP

Kopen buoyed by response to candidacy

Republican candidate for the 7th District state house seat Jack Kopen is facing an entrenched incumbent in a traditionally Democratic district.

The Hermitage businessman knows it won’t be easy to beat state Rep. Michael C. Gruitza, a veteran legislator with nearly 20 years’ experience in Harrisburg and a strong following in the Shenango Valley. But, Kopen said, the response to his campaign has been "very encouraging."

"I think people are ready for a change. They’re ready for a full-time legislator, new ideas and new enthusiasm in Harrisburg," Kopen said Sunday in Hempfield Township Volunteer Fire Department’s Station One banquet hall at state Sen. Robert D. "Bob" Robbins’ annual barbecue.

Kopen said his chief priority if elected is securing more and better paying jobs for the area. His chief strategy will be easing the tax burden on Pennsylvania businesses. "I’m not talking about corporate giveaways or handouts. I’m talking about creating a level playing field," Kopen said.