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WILLIAMSPORT – State Representative Jeff C. Wheeland has announced his candidacy for United States Congress (PA-12) and his intention to participate in the upcoming Republican conferee process officiated by the Republican Party of Pennsylvania.
"First of all, I want to thank Congressman Tom Marino for his service to our region, as a Congressman, U.S. Attorney and District Attorney," said Wheeland.
"I am running for United States Congress because I know I can make a difference fighting for our conservative principles in Washington, D.C. I support President Donald Trump's America First Agenda which has led to more jobs, a reinvigorated economy and repositioned our nation as a world leader. With that being said, I am deeply concerned about the current state of affairs in Congress. We must end the political gamesmanship and work to secure our borders, build a wall and reopen our government. I am adamantly opposed to the big government; anti-job agenda being pushed by Speaker Nancy Pelosi and the progressive wing of the Democratic Party. I am a reformer, support term limits and believe we must drain the swamp.
"Long before I ever entered politics, I became a lifetime member of the NRA and I am pro-life. I have run successful businesses and understand firsthand how bigger government, higher taxes and unnecessary regulations can stifle job growth and prosperity. I also have experience in county and state government and have a record of being a consistent conservative and voting against tax increases."
"Additionally, I pledge to be an active member of Congress, in Washington and at home in the 12th Congressional District. I will be a consistent presence in each county. As a former local and current state elected official, I want to work collaboratively together with all levels of government to ensure we are providing the best level of service while streamlining government services ensuring we are good stewards of our taxpayer dollars."
Jeff has represented the 83rd District in Lycoming County since 2015, when he defeated an entrenched liberal Democratic incumbent.
Prior to his time in public office, Jeff worked in the family business, Home Service Beverage. He took over running the business in the early 1990s, and started a second business, First Ice.
In 2007, Jeff was elected Lycoming County commissioner where he used his business experience to improve conditions for the overall economy. Jeff won re-election in 2011 and advocated for the responsible expansion of the Marcellus Shale natural gas field, which serves as the backbone of the industrial and economic strength of Lycoming County.
Jeff is a graduate of Montoursville High School, earned an associate degree in business management from the former Williamsport Area Community College, and took additional post-secondary business courses at Lycoming College.
Jeff is a 2010 graduate of the County Commissioners Association of PA Academy of Excellence. He is also a past director of the Malt Beverage Distributors Association of Pennsylvania and is a current member of the Young Men's Republican Club, Moose Lodge 866, Consolidated Sportsmen of Lycoming County, Sons of Italy, the Williamsport/Lycoming Chamber of Commerce and the Lick Run Hunting Club.
He lives with his wife, Kimberly, in Loyalsock Township (Lycoming County).