The White House announced this week that President Obama will pay a visit to State College, and PA Republicans’ reactions run the gamut from civil to, well, you’ll see.

Obama is expected to address economic and energy policy.

Congressman Glenn ‘GT’ Thompson, a Centre County native who’s Fifth District includes the main campus of Penn State, sounded a welcoming note. He also emphasized his district’s legacy of energy production, from the oil industry of the 1800s to Marcellus shale today.

“I welcome President Obama’s planned visit to the Fifth Congressional District and his recent comments regarding American competitiveness and energy security. Pennsylvania was the birthplace of the oil industry over 150 years ago, is home to the world’s largest natural gas play, vast natural resources, and many pioneers in energy research. The families and businesses of the Fifth District have lead our country in domestic energy production through developments in Marcellus Shale natural gas, which will help power America for generations. This is one of the many reasons for the creation of Pennsylvania’s Energy Innovation Hub. I am hopeful during his visit that Mr. Obama will touch on the importance of domestic energy production, especially oil, coal, and natural gas – each just as critical to any credible, long-term energy plan – and what steps the Administration is taking to increase our domestic energy supply,” Thompson said in a statement.

Obama has previously said that he supports development of domestic natural gas.

It has not yet been officially determined whether Thompson will attend the event.

The Pennsylvania Republican Party was less gentle in its response to the visit. Chairman Rob Gleason had the following statement, in which no punches were pulled:

“Pennsylvanians soundly rejected President Obama’s job-killing, failed policies last November, and by electing Republicans like U.S. Senator Pat Toomey, Governor Tom Corbett and Lt. Governor Jim Cawley who are spearheading real leadership and job-creating reforms.

“President Obama will be discussing energy policy but Pennsylvanians are no strangers to the opportunities in the energy industry. Our Commonwealth enjoys rich energy resources including oil, coal, water, nuclear and new opportunities like Marcellus Shale natural gas.  Pennsylvania is ready to develop domestic energy sources that can fill America’s energy demands and create good jobs.  With runaway spending, overburdening regulation, looming tax increases and a hostile position toward current energy industries, how can President Obama form an energy policy that will sustain our 21st century needs?

“In the spirit of Groundhog Day, perhaps Punxsutawney Phil will wake up giving us an early spring and President Obama can finally provide an economic environment that is more friendly to job creators.  Pennsylvania can’t afford six more weeks of winter or one more day of record high unemployment and President Obama’s failing economic agenda.”