MECHANICSBURG, Pa. — With the 2024 election season entering the home stretch, Republican House Speaker Mike Johnson joined Rep. Scott Perry on the campaign trail in Cumberland County.
“One of the most important members of Congress from my perspective, and the perspective of my colleagues, is Scott Perry," said Speaker Johnson.
The Speaker was in Lower Allen Township, Friday morning, for a private campaign event with Perry supporters. Johnson touted Perry's years of military and congressional service during a press event.
Perry was appointed to the House Select Intelligence Committee when Johnson became Speaker of the House.
“We’re probably facing our most dangerous moments since World War II in our nation’s history. So, we need steady hands at the wheel," said Johnson.
Former TV news anchor and Democratic challenger Janelle Stelson joined Rep. Perry on the debate stage on October 8. She criticized Perry for his alleged role in the January 6 riots and for being an extremist on issues like abortion.
“Republicans, Independents, Democrats all want to have control of their own bodies, and I think that’s reasonable," said Stellson (D-PA 10th Congressional candidate). "I don’t think Scott Perry needs to be involved in telling you what to do in your most intimate healthcare decisions.”
A new poll from Susquehanna Polling and Research now shows Stelson beating Perry, 48-39. Speaker Johnson and Rep. Perry both said they aren't taking any stock into the latest polls.
“These polls at this time are meant to drive opinion, not reflect opinion. The poll that the Speaker and I are most focused on is going to happen next month," said Rep. Perry (R-PA 10th Congressional District). "And we’re going to win that one.”
Dan Mallinson, an associate professor of public policy and administration at Penn State, said the polling reflects a decrease in Rep. Perry's favorability compared to Stelson.
"Perry has gotten a lot of negative attention over the past few years, because of January 6th, the investigation, and the controversy of being put on the Intelligence Committee," said Mallinson.
Mallinson said this will likely be the closest election Perry will have to date. He said Perry's reelection will be crucial for Republicans to maintain their slim majority of the House of Representatives.
“If Johnson wants to have a little easier time legislating, he will need more Republicans," said Mallinson.