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The campaign for Republican congressional candidate Lou Barletta responded quickly to news Friday afternoon that U.S. Rep. Paul Kanjorski (D-Nanticoke) would agree to only one debate, saying it proves one of two things.

"Mr. Kanjorski is either afraid to debate Lou Barletta face-to-face or he knows his record is simply indefensible and he would rather hide than face voters in northeastern Pennsylvania," said. Barletta campaign manager Vince Galko. "In either case, it clearly shows that Paul Kanjorski does not deserve another term representing the great people of the 11th Congressional District."

Galko added, "Lou Barletta stands by his challenge of one broadcast debate in each of the five counties that make up the district."

The competitive race between U.S. Rep. Paul Kanjorksi (D-Nanticoke) and Republican challenger Lou Barletta will feature just one debate, which will air district wide on local TV Oct. 29.

The debate, editorial board meetings and individual interactions with constituents will give voters enough information to know where each candidate stands, Kanjorski spokesman Ed Mitchell said.

"The Congressman has a job to do in September in the capital and he's going to continue to fully represent the people of the 11th, despite the time demands of the campaign," Mitchell said. "We simply have too many commitments in October after Congress adjourns to fit in any other debates."

Barletta is seen as one of the few Republican congressional challengers nationwide who has a chance to defeat his or her Democratic opponent. He has run an aggressive campaign to erode much of Kanjorski's lead in the polls, although the longtime incumbent still holds a fundraising advantage.

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Speaker Nancy Pelosi and much of the state's Democratic Congressional delegation are winners after scoring speaking roles in Denver this week, while the governor's inability to pass a budget earns him one of the spots on the loser list. Find out who else made this week's Winners & Losers. | CLICK HERE

U.S. congressional candidate Joel Haugen (R-Scappoose) said Friday he will represent the Independent Party on the ballot in November, meaning there will be no Republican candidate running for Congress in the 1st Congressional District.

Bob Madon and Robert Quinn make this week's losers list, while Simpson County is a big winner. Find out who else is among this week's Winners & Losers. | CLICK HERE

Several Republican leaders in the state issued statements regarding John McCain’s pick of Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin as Vice President.

Tim Bee, president of the Arizona state Senate and congressional candidate in the 8th Congressional District, called Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin an "exceptional" pick to be the running mate of Sen. John McCain (R-Phoenix).

"Today is a great day for women and all Americans," wrote Bee in a statement after the announcement; "Republicans, Independents and Democrats alike. Women have a strong imprint on American politics and especially the Republican Party. I congratulate Senator McCain for making an exceptional pick for America’s future. A future where one’s content and ability create endless opportunities."

Prominent Texas Republicans are more than satisfied with Gov. Sarah Palin’s (R-Alaska) selection as U.S. Sen. John McCain’s(R-Ariz.) running mate. Some are describing it as exciting and bold.

Ray Sullivan, a Republican consultant and lobbyist, says Palin has “risen” because she’s stressed ethics and taken on the “status quo,” including “entrenched business and political interests.”

“Conservatives will cheer her strong fiscal, pro-life, pro-Second Amendment and energy positions, while independents and undecided Democrats will find her personal story and common-sense style very appealing.”

Prominent Texas Republicans are more than satisfied with Gov. Sarah Palin’s (R-Alaska) selection as U.S. Sen. John McCain’s(R-Ariz.) running mate. Some are describing it as exciting and bold. 

Ray Sullivan, a Republican consultant and lobbyist, says Palin has “risen” because she’s stressed ethics and taken on the “status quo,” including “entrenched business and political interests.”

“Conservatives will cheer her strong fiscal, pro-life, pro-Second Amendment and energy positions, while independents and undecided Democrats will find her personal story and common-sense style very appealing.”

Charlie Summers, the Republican candidate for the First Congressional District, said Gov. Sarah Palin will take a strong stand in making sure the country drills its own resources to solve the energy crisis.

His full statement: