State Representative John Bear, who was swept into office in 2006 on a platform of reforming Harrisburg and returning fiscal discipline to state government, today endorsed Lloyd Smucker in the Republican Primary for State Senator in the 13th Senate District.  Bear joins a long list of other state and local officials who have endorsed Smucker over the past week, including retiring Senator Gib Armstrong.

Bear announced the news in a letter to Republican voters of the 97th State House District, which he serves in Harrisburg.

In his letter, Bear wrote, “The reason I am writing is to ask that you give Lloyd Smucker the same opportunity that you gave me almost two years ago by supporting him in his bid for State Senator on Tuesday, April 22^nd.  The reason for my support is simple.  Lloyd is the only credible fiscal conservative and reform candidate. “

The letter continued by stating, “I know I can count on him to put the interests of our constituents before the interests of career politicians or special interest groups.  But more importantly, Lloyd is a person of integrity who is sincere about trying to control state spending, reform state government, and restore voter confidence in the legislative process.” 

Bear also went on to praise Smucker for recognizing the concerns of local residents over jobs, the economy, infrastructure, education and more. 

Reacting to the endorsement, Smucker stated, “As the only candidate for State Senator who two years ago supported reform candidates in Lancaster County, I am honored to have John’s endorsement.  He has been a leader in the effort to change Harrisburg and I look forward to joining that fight if I am privileged enough to win election as Senator.”