By Alex Roarty
PoliticsPA Staff Writer
roarty@politicspa.com

Congressman Jim Gerlach dropped out of the gubernatorial race Thursday, citing a lack of money as his principle reason for exiting.

Gerlach’s exit means the Republican field now has only two candidates, state Rep. Sam Rohrer and Attorney General Tom Corbett.

“While we have successfully raised over $1 million, traveled thousands of miles all across this Commonwealth and signed up more than 19,000 supporters eager to help us win, today’s media-driven campaigns require four times that amount to wage a successful primary,” Gerlach said in a statement. “That left me with two choices: either spend all of my time raising money with little time left for meeting with voters; or withdrawing my candidacy and working even harder to serve the public. I am choosing to serve the public — many of whom have graciously rewarded me with their support for nearly two decades.”

A spokesman for Gerlach said the congressman has not decided if he will seek re-election in the 6th Congressioanl District, where an array of Republican candidates have already campaigned for months to replace him.

“At this point, Jim has said he has not ruled anything in or out,” said Kori Walter, campaign spokesman.

He added that Gerlach has not decided if he will endorse Corbett, the gubernatorial front-runner.