Congressman Murtha's Challenger Announces Candidacy

Diana Irey has been a Washington County Commissioner for 10 years. Now she wants to be in Washington D.C. to give the 12th District representation that, she says, Murtha isn't providing anymore.

Irey announced her run for Congress at the Holiday Inn in Johnstown Wednesday afternoon. The Washington County Commissioner says she has given Washington County a balanced budget for 8 straight years, no tax increase, economic development and jobs. She is also apart of many community and state organizations.

Irey says Murtha has drifted away from our ideals and become apart of the problem in Washington. She believes it is important that we support our military and that we will win the War on Terrorism. Irey responds to Murtha's comments on the war saying, "Everybody would like to see our military home but you have to think of what is best for our nation at this point and you have to think about responsible comments. What is going to impact our men and women overseas and their families back home and that is where we differ on the issue."

Irey thinks her chances against Congressman Murtha are excellent because she has received a lot of support so far. She believes once the constituents in the 12th District get to know her they will support her as well. Irey lives in Carroll Township with her husband and three children.

Channel 6 News tried talking with Murtha about Irey Wednesday but he wouldn't comment.