Since Rep. Jim Gerlach surprised the political world with his retirement, a myriad of rumors have swirled about who will jump into the race to replace the Sixth District Representative next year.

Well now we can narrow the list by two names as Downingtown Mayor Josh Maxwell and Caln Commissioner Josh Young have both announced that they will not seek the open Congressional seat.

Both Joshs are currently seeking the Democratic nomination for the State House seat in the 74th district. The 74th district consists of Caln, Coatesville, Downingtown, East Caln, East Fallowfield, Modena, Parksburg, South Coatesville, Sadsbury and Valley.

“I’m honored by the notion that people would want me to represent them in that capacity, and it’s a sign that what we are accomplishing in Downingtown is getting noticed,” Maxwell said. “Right now, I’m committed to serving the Downingtown community, and focusing on my campaign for the 74th state House district, where I can tackle the issues facing western and central Chester County.”

“I live on land my family has owned for four generations,” Young responded. “I have no intentions of moving to run for Congress in a district I do not reside in.”

Mike Parrish is the only declared candidate in the race at the moment having jumped into the race while Gerlach was still running. We reported on Wednesday that the DCCC is currently talking to Montgomery County Commissioner Leslie Richards about becoming a candidate.

Republicans potentially vying for the seat are State Senator John Rafferty, former Senate candidate Sam Rohrer, as well as Chester County Commissioner Ryan Costello or Chester County Republican Chairman Val DiGiorgio.