Gubernatorial candidate Corbett visits Erie

If state Attorney General Tom Corbett has his way, Pennsylvania's budget will be a lot smaller and last twice as long.

Corbett, a Republican candidate for governor, visited Erie on Thursday for a two-day campaign and fundraising visit.

He talked with the Erie Times-News about his plans if he is elected governor, including his proposal that the state budget run for two years instead of one.

We didn't switch to an annual budget until 1968," Corbett said. "It would cut the cost of preparing the budget by 50 percent, and more importantly, it would give state entities that receive funding the certainty of two years instead of one."

The switch, Corbett said, would fit his philosophy of "fiscal discipline, limited government and free enterprise," and that a biennial budget would help Pennsylvania return to having part-time state legislators.

Recent polls show Corbett leading his closest primary opponent, state Rep. Sam Rohrer, of Berks County, and Corbett this month was endorsed by the state Republican Committee. Corbett downplayed the polls.

"It's early," he said. "The only one that counts is in November."

Corbett said that it's difficult but not impossible to work as attorney general and campaign for governor at the same time.

He said he closely monitors the latest developments in the trial of former Democratic Whip Mike Veon and three co-defendants. Veon is accused to using taxpayer money for campaign purposes. Former House Speaker John Perzel, R-Philadelphia, was also charged in November in a second round of charges in the scandal.

"Thank God for this," Corbett said, holding up his BlackBerry. "I'm following tweets sent by people and media at the trial. I also check in with my staff several times a day."

While in Erie, Corbett will meet with the Erie County Young Republicans, the Manufacturer & Business Association, and Tea Party activists.

"My opponent is trying to be the Tea Party's official candidate, but I'm conservative," Corbett said. "Look at my record on pro-life and Second Amendment issues, on law enforcement and states' rights."