Philadelphia Inquirer: Ridge backs Corbett in GOP race for governor

Former Pennsylvania Gov. Tom Ridge today weighed into the Republican race for governor next year, saying he strongly endorses state Attorney General Tom Corbett in the May GOP primary.

Many state Republican leaders have been rallying around Corbett, hoping to head off an expensive primary battle between the Pittsburgh area prosecutor and the other announced candidate in the field: four-term U.S. Rep. Jim Gerlach of Chester County.

Ridge, in a statement released today, said: "I share Tom Corbett's vision for a 21st Century Pennsylvania. He understands that a competitive business environment is necessary to grow family-sustaining jobs. He believes in responsible and competent government. He is committed to removing the onerous regulations and red tape that burden our job creators. He understands the importance of using Pennsylvania's natural resources as a means to create jobs and promote growth. And, most importantly, he will restore fiscal stability to state government."

Kori Walter, Gerlach's campaign spokesman, said Gerlach had no intention of leaving the primary race.

"That is not an option that is even being discussed," he said. "We think the voters should have their say wbout who has the best ideas to lead Pennsylvania."