The Express - "What Are Your Thoughts On Farmers Using Immigrant Workers?" BILL CAHIR (DEMOCRAT) Individuals who come to our country in a quest for a better life are a part of our nation. We must promote legal immigration. I welcome those who would come to the United States legally. But I believe we must levy fines upon those who come here illegally. Overall, we need a bipartisan plan to intensify border enforcement, improve the speed and legitimacy of the legal immigration system and penalize those who break our laws. But we must afford a workable path to legal residency for the estimated 12 million undocumented immigrants in the United States, and our new system must help our farmers with their labor needs. CHRIS EXARCHOS (REPUBLICAN) Many of our agricultural businesses, especially dairy farms, rely on migrant workers. A work visa program, distinct from an immigrant visa or a temporary visa, may be the way to help our farms and businesses get the foreign workers they need while providing a mechanism for us to know who they are and that in fact they have work. Employers of work visa workers need to take responsibility and ensure that migrant workers are not a burden to the taxpayers. They must also certify that they were not able to fill those jobs by making reasonable offers to the local workforce. Where an immigrant visa provides a path to citizenship, a worker visa would only offer the right to work here when a job is available, with a return home when the job ends. This solution would balance the needs of our employers with the requirements of the taxpaying citizens. JOHN KRUPA (REPUBLICAN) In talking to the farm community across the district, I have learned that immigrant workers are a resource that our farming community utilizes. They serve as a necessary function in our farm communities. MARK MCCRACKEN (DEMOCRAT) If the immigrant workers are in the country legally, I don't see any problem with this. However, if the workers are illegal, then, the farmer, or any business for that matter, who is knowingly using illegal immigrants should be prosecuted to the letter of the law. LOU RADKOWSKI (REPUBLICAN) America needs immigrant workers to work on farms. These people are essential to ensuring America's success in the future. Without these workers, American industry and our quality of life suffer. We need a labor force that is skilled, yet flexible, to tackle the many different tasks that are asked of them. One way to ensure retaining these workers would be to establish a guest worker program. People from other countries will be able to legally work in the United States for up to three years while they apply for a Green Card. One documented problem with the Guest Worker program is the idea of birthright citizenship. Like some European countries, we need to modify the legislation to ensure one parent is a naturalized United States citizen. A guest worker program will only work if these ideas are also adopted. Immigrants built America into what it is today. We have a strong history of immigration and giving hard-working people coming to America the tools to succeed. They can then lay the foundation for a better way of life for them and their families. Americans need to be compassionate and always be mindful of our own history and the special role immigrants played in building our nation. KEITH RICHARDSON (REPUBLICAN) Farmers should use legal immigrant labor, not illegal immigrant labor. I have proposed a three-step immigration reform plan. First, we must stop the hemorrhaging and secure our borders. Second, we must provide an incentive for those in our country illegally to return home. That incentive is this: If they register with our CIS and return home, they will be considered for legal entry into this country. If they fail to register and return home voluntarily, they will be deported and not allowed to return. This step must include reforming our system of legal immigration. Illegal immigrants will not return home if they face an 8-10 year wait for legal re-entry. And we must expand our guest-worker programs to allow encourage an above-the-board legal immigrant work-force. When such reforms have been undertaken, we should take the third step of stiffening and actually enforcing the penalties against those who use illegal immigrant labor. MATT SHANER (REPUBLICAN) I believe that it is perfectly acceptable for farmers to employ a person who has come to the United States legally. However my concern is the more than 12 million undocumented illegal immigrants that are currently in the United States. Illegal immigrants not only utilize public services that American citizens pay taxes for, but having undocumented individuals in the Unites States constitutes a national security threat. If elected as your next Congressman it is my duty to fight to protect for the rights and well being of American citizens. The first step is to stop talking about securing our borders and do it now. Then and only then, must we develop a comprehensive immigration reform bill that does not grant amnesty. Rewarding law breakers only encourages others to break the law. All illegal immigrants convicted of crimes must be expelled and any person who applies for United States citizenship must learn to read, write, and speak English. While it is true that America is a nation of immigrants, people who come here illegally marginalize the tremendous effort of those that have entered the U.S. through legitimate means. There are thousands of people from around the world who have been waiting years and spent thousands of dollars to legally immigrate to the United States. It is true that immigrant workers provide a valuable service to farmers and other employers, but we have to make sure that these people are going through the proper channels. JEFF STROEHMANN (REPUBLICAN) Anyone working in the United States must be a legal U.S. citizen, period. JOHN STROUP (REPUBLICAN) The challenge of immigration is one that cuts across so many issues here in our country, but to me, it comes down to one of national security. With our nation engaged in a fight against terrorists across the globe, ensuring the security of our border, from building a strong border wall, providing necessary surveillance patrols and sending strong messages about our intent to secure our border to those across the globe is critical. As for those who are here illegally, we need to begin enforcing our laws here at home, especially regarding those who employ illegal workers. The jobs that we constantly hear are not able to be done by citizens are being done by folks here in the 5th District, and I am proud to call many gardeners, sanitation workers, busboys and others my neighbors. GLENN THOMPSON (REPUBLICAN) Currently less than 2 percent of our Pennsylvania farms utilize the temporary worker program for legal immigrant workers due to the problems and issues of this program. Many of our farms need the labor of legal immigrant workers to assist at various times of the season. The unpredictability, intensity and difficult working conditions have left thousands of seasonal farm jobs largely filled by immigrant workers. The Temporary Worker Program must be revised to allow Pennsylvania's farmers the ability to access legal immigrant workers in a flexible manner and without the current burdensome regulations that limits utilization and threatens significant fines and penalties. Our farms provide us our national food supply, clothing and much more. We have an obligation to remove the barriers to what our farmers require to be successful. RICK VILELLO (DEMOCRAT) I don't have any problem with farmers using immigrant workers, I do have a big problem with farmers or anybody else hiring illegal immigrants. Illegal immigration and illegal employment takes good jobs away from Americans and gives an unfair advantage to employers who want to cheat the system. DEREK WALKER (REPUBLICAN) Farming has been and will continue to be the most important industry in Pennsylvania. While we have all been affected by the skyrocketing costs of fuel, farmers have been hit especially hard. To help them offset these costs, as well as the costs in general associated with farming, many farmers employ immigrant workers. I believe that as long as these immigrant workers are in our country legally, that farmers should be allowed to continue to employ them. However, if any of these immigrants have entered our country illegally, I believe that they should be immediately deported. American taxpayers are forced to spend millions of dollars per year to provide public services to the more than 20 million illegal immigrants currently residing in the United States. That's why, as you next Congressman, I will fight to finish the construction of the boarder fence, hire additional border security guards and prevent illegal immigrants from having the same rights and privileges that belong to United States Citizens.

Today, The Express presents responses from the 12 candidates seeking the Fifth Congressional District seat on what they would bring to the office. We asked: "What qualities do you have that would make you an effective Congressman?"======BILL CAHIR (DEMOCRAT) I am the only person in the race who has actually worked on and passed federal legislation so I understand what it requires to take on the special interests in Washington, D.C. in order for us to change how things are done. As a junior member of the Senate Labor Committee staff, I helped pass the Family and Medical Leave Act. As a staff assistant to former Sen. Harris Wofford, D-Pa., I worked on healthcare reform legislation. As a Marine and an Iraq War veteran, I also understand all too well the importance of serving the mission before serving out any personal interests. That is the type of congressman that I will be in order to cut out the bickering and actually get things done.=====CHRIS EXARCHOS (REPUBLICAN) My diverse background as a businessman, scientist and elected official will enable me to effectively represent you in Congress. First, my wife and I founded and operated a small business for 29 years (The Victorian Manor Restaurant). I know what it takes to encourage economic development and a "business friendly" environment. Second, my formal education includes a Ph.D in Geochemistry from Penn State. As a scientist I understand complex environmental issues, energy development, and the protection of our environment. Third, I have been in involved in public service for about 29 years and served on numerous authorities, boards and commissions. I served on the College Township Council for eight years, two of them as chairman. More recently I served four years on the Centre County Board of Commissioners (chairman). During my tenure we completed three major capital projects without raising taxes, while maintaining a healthy fund balance. As my grandfather used to say "before you tell me what you'll do, show me what you've done."=====JOHN KRUPA (REPUBLICAN) Thirty-five years as a business owner, 12 years as a township supervisor, serving as the police commissioner, Emergency Management coordinator, Planning Commission member, working with thousands of constituents on a daily basis to address their needs and concerns. This experience gives me a clear vision, the leadership abilities and the problem solving skills the district and our country needs. I understand this is an opportunity to serve you and it is really about serving you, not putting a list of my priorities together and telling you this is what we need to do. It is you telling me what you want done and working diligently to accomplish your requests.=====MARK MCCRACKEN (DEMOCRAT) As a county commissioner for one of the largest counties in the 5th District, I have hands-on experience dealing with important issues including economic development, job creation and balancing budgets. I also spent 10 years serving on a school board which gives me strong experience dealing with public education issues. I understand the issues facing the rural counties and communities that make up the 5th District. I have experience working closely with federal, state and regional officials on projects to bring jobs and community development to communities within the 5th District. I am a lifelong resident of northcentral Pennsylvania and I will remain committed to continuing the important work to bring jobs and new industry to the region regardless what happens with the vote on April 22. During this campaign I've stressed that I bring honesty, integrity, experience and a record of results that few of the other 12 candidates can claim.=====LOU RADKOWSKI (REPUBLICAN) An effective representative needs to understand an entire district. I have spent the last three months meeting with the entire Fifth District and am proud to be a member of such a talented constituency. I am humbled, yet excited, that I will get to represent such fine people. We need a return to compassionate conservatism in Washington. I work with families daily and I listen to them and their needs. I understand the anxiety caused by possible plant closings in Saint Marys and Wellsboro. I can feel the worry of parents as they watch their sons and daughters go off to serve our nation. I understand the concern when government officials make decisions, like the proposed tolling of I-80, which can affect an entire area's economic growth. I will be there to listen to you. It is not about my agenda, but about our agenda. I am not looking at representing the Fifth District as a stepping-stone to something bigger. I want to serve the people of the Fifth. I will continue to hear the concerns of all constituents regarding the betterment of the Fifth District and implement solutions to put us on the right path forward. There are many challenges ahead. We need someone with the life experience, the ability to listen to the people, and above all, compassionate leadership. My life experience in constant service to the people of Saint Marys and Elk County make me the perfect candidate to support the entire population of the Fifth District.=====KEITH RICHARDSON (REPUBLICAN) First, I am the only candidate trained in the law. I not only studied and practiced law, defending people against lawsuit abuse, I also taught Constitutional Law. I left a successful law firm to become a pastor. I have firsthand experience in working with struggling families and in counseling people who have lost their way and need to get back on track. I think that's where we are as a society. I also have a passion for moral issues, borne not of political expediency but of spiritual conviction. I know what it means to take a stand, even when it is unpopular. I know what it means to be a leader while being a servant. It's high time we sent a pastor to Washington. Finally, I am a working class man. My grandfather was a farmer. My father was a soldier. I worked my way through college, law school, and seminary. I work hard now to provide for a large family on a modest budget. We make tough decisions and exercise discipline and good judgment to live within our means. I believe Washington has lost touch with those values of everyday, ordinary hard-working people, and we should make Congress once again a citizen legislature rather than a millionaire's club.=====MATT SHANER (REPUBLICAN) Congressman Peterson did a tremendous job during his tenure, and I applaud him for serving his constituents with such distinction. It is imperative that the next Congressman continue his leadership and be prepared to deal with important issues affecting the district like: the economy, energy independence, and illegal immigration. The next Congressman must strive to create a climate conducive to economic prosperity for individuals, families and small businesses. My experience has made me uniquely qualified to go to Washington and represent the citizens of the 5th District. I am a businessman, husband and father of three. I am the only candidate with experience working on Capitol Hill when I worked for Senator Rick Santorum. I also chaired President Bush's 2004 campaign in my home county. I have also been a board member on a number of organizations. I was on the board of directors for the Pennsylvania Tourism and Lodging Association for four years. I am also a board member on the Pennsylvania Chamber of Commerce and the Penn State Quarterback Club, but I am most proud of my charity work. I am a founder and current member of the board of directors for Kicks 4 Kids charity which has raised thousands of dollars for terminally ill children since its inception in 2000. I believe the voters of the 5th District want someone who has good ideas and will have the clout in Washington to represent and protect the interests they hold dear.=====JEFF STROEHMANN (REPUBLICAN) I've always believed that all politics are local. As your congressman on the federal level I will ensure local officials, county commissioners and our state leaders are all working together and in the know on all issues that cross my desk. I've often said that everyone who runs for higher office should have been either a school board member or township supervisor. This is when you learn what accountability means and it reminds you why you are in public office and who it is you are serving. I will have three offices running in the district as well as a mobile staff office. Leaders and citizens of Lock Haven will know that my bus will be in town on a certain given day of the month. I will always be accessible and listening to the needs and concerns of my constituents who sent me to Washington.=====JOHN STROUP (REPUBLICAN) Just like all of you, I spend every day working to make my community better. As a father and husband, as a leader in a number of community organizations, as a health care executive, and as mayor of one of 5th District's most vibrant communities, my life is defined by my commitment to making our communities better. I have shown that commitment by fighting for the whole district against the efforts to bring tolls to Interstate 80 - a key piece of our region's economic livelihood. Our district's representatives past and present have all understood the importance of economic development for the future of our region, and with almost 30 years of business and economic development experience, I have the drive to stand up and continue the fight to improve our region and communities. I believe that my maturity and real life experience makes me the most qualified for this position. I have stood up for the entire 5th District in the past, and I will proudly stand up for our district in Washington.=====GLENN THOMPSON (REPUBLICAN) Experience and shared values. At age 48, I am a life-long resident of the district. I know what it is for a family to live paycheck to paycheck. As a 26-year health care professional, I have refined the skills of identifying root causes of complex issues. I am experienced working with diverse teams to solve problems, including citizens, local, state and federal officials. My record includes developing cost-effective solutions to complex problems. My leadership experience includes school board, Workforce Investment Board, Private Industry Council, past president of state and national health care associations and president of the Boy Scout Council. Much of my life has been dedicated to developing our future with 30 years as a Scout leader. I am experienced in the legislative process, having assisted in drafting and obtaining bipartisan support of a federal Medicare Access bill currently before Congress. My readiness to serve includes a thorough understanding of the regulatory system as a 15-year liaison to the Medicare agency fighting for cost-effective care and patient access. I have served six years as Centre County Republican chairman developing working relationships with local, county, state and federal elected officials. I am pro-life, pro-marriage and a lifelong hunter. I share your values. look forward to earning your confidence as we work together to address your issues and concerns. Finally, I view serving as your congressman a calling to serve the needs of all residents in this district including the citizens of Clinton County.=====RICK VILELLO (DEMOCRAT) The people of Clinton County and Lock Haven know me. I want to serve the whole 5th district the way I've served Lock Haven. My leadership has been recognized by Governor Ed Rendell, State Senator John Wozniak, State Representative Mike Hanna and many mayors around the state. To see a complete list of my endorsements go to www.rickvilello.com. They've endorsed me because they know how hard I've worked for the people of Lock Haven. They know that the skills that I've learned as mayor will serve me well in Washington. DEREK WALKER (REPUBLICAN) I have been a lifelong resident of the 5th Congressional District, so I have a comprehensive understanding of the regions strengths, weaknesses, challenges and opportunities. I believe that my educational, professional and community experiences have enabled me to be an effective United States Congressman on Day 1. As a professor of statistics and economics at both the high school and college level, I understand the challenges facing our education system and importance of making sensible economic policy in order for our country to prosper. As a small business owner and financial planner, I understand the importance of lower taxes and government deregulation in order for businesses to compete in a global economy. Additionally, my involvement in numerous community and volunteer organizations gives me a broad perspective of the needs in our communities. I have always had a love for the people and the heritage of our region and I believe I will provide the best leadership and vision moving forward.

The Express - "Today, The Express Presents Responses from the 12 Candidates Seeking the Fifth Congressional District Seat on the Issue of the War In Iraq" Today, The Express presents responses from the 12 candidates seeking the Fifth Congressional District seat on the issue of the war in Iraq. We asked: "Do you support the War in Iraq as it is presently being conducted? When and how can the war be ended honorably?"====BILL CAHIR (DEMOCRAT) As the only veteran in the election and the only person in this race who has served in Iraq, I look forward to working with our next president on a phased redeployment of our troops from Iraq. We must bring an end to the war in a sensible and responsible way — and that will not happen overnight. But we must not maintain a permanent presence in Iraq, or in any Muslim country, under intelligence we know to be false. That would be counterproductive.====CHRIS EXARCHOS (REPUBLICAN) Rightly or wrongly we invaded Iraq, toppled their government and disbanded their security forces. We now have a moral responsibility to leave behind a workable and secure government with institutions that can protect the health and safety of its citizens. Once that goal is achieved, we should leave.====JOHN KRUPA (REPUBLICAN) We need to support our troops and the efforts they are directed to undertake. The war in Iraq, if not handled in the most appropriate manner, could leave us with a country with the same potential as Afghanistan when the Soviets left after their war and the Taliban rose to power. We must now leave Iraq with a stable government with the ability to maintain civil order and the ability to protect itself from unwanted foreign influence. This is a decision that can be based on conditions met (political, economic and security) and the Commanders in field confirming that the conditions are met and stability assured.=====MARK MCCRACKEN (DEMOCRAT) No. I feel our next president's first task will be to repair our foreign policy. This goes beyond just solving the Iraq war and bringing our troops home. We need to bring our long time allies back to the table and ask them for assistance to form a multinational plan to stabilize Iraq and the entire Middle East. It is my hope that the majority, if not all, of our troops will be home within six months after our new commander in chief takes office in January of 2009. Next, we must remember that we have a responsibility to provide all the services the soldiers returning from Iraq will need. They may need job training, employment assistance and medical care that must include treatment for mental stress issues to get their lives back in order. As for an honorable end, I think our country and our troops have already performed honorably. The American public has paid over $700 billion to support this war and our troops have shown their bravery and commitment to stay in Iraq as long the president's policy calls for them to stay. It is time to bring this to an end and I hope our next president will set a policy to do so.====LOU RADKOWSKI (REPUBLICAN) The downfall of Saddam Hussein is a partial victory; a complete victory will entail an ongoing U.S. presence in the Middle East to protect American interests. U.S. Military bases throughout the world are a vital component of America's national security. While I believe that the American footprint in the Middle East can eventually be smaller; a hasty reduction of our forces at this time would be counterproductive and lead to further regional destabilization. Our military leadership needs the best tools and technology to secure Iraq and Afghanistan. Middle Eastern experts are needed within the military to ensure that our troops build productive, long-lasting relationships with local leaders. As our troops secure towns, the region will stabilize and prosper encouraging economic development. America made a commitment to Iraq to shape their nation, and we need cultural experts to build productive, long-lasting relationships with local leaders. The Iraqi people are responsible for taking the reins from our military forces and leadership. Free elections and a stable democracy will put Iraq in the right direction. This will only happen if we lay the foundation for a strong Iraqi nation and people.=====KEITH RICHARDSON (REPUBLICAN) The way to win the war honorably is to win it. Tactical decisions on the conduct of a war should be left to tactical commanders on the ground who know the situation best and know what is necessary to achieve victory, not to politicians in Washington who puff and posture for their own political purposes. We will achieve victory when the Iraqi government is able to govern its people and when the Iraqi army is capable of defending its people. Things are moving in that direction. This is no time to tuck tail and run. It is a time for courage. With our recent successes, I don't understand the call of liberals like Nancy Pelosi who want us to snatch defeat out of the jaws of victory.====MATT SHANER (REPUBLICAN) The United States should support our troops and a winning strategy in Iraq. Many mistakes were made during Secretary of Defense Rumsfeld's tenure. Most notably having too few troops during the initial occupation. Under Secretary of Defense Gates and General Petreus we have formulated a strategy that is succeeding in Iraq. This strategy of "clearing and holding" cities that were overrun with insurgents has given the Iraqi government the opportunity to work towards resolving the political issues dividing Iraq. A political solution is the only way to create a stable Iraq that can defend itself without succumbing to terrorists, ethnic divisions, or its neighbors like Iran. Recently the violence has spiked again as violent anti-American militias loyal to Iran have clashed with Iraqi government and American forces. These people are intent on establishing a theocracy modeled after Iran with Muqtada al-Sadr at the head. The danger if we leave Iraq is not only that al Qaeda will us Iraq as a staging ground to attack America, but the country and region will disintegrate into a war where millions of people are killed and displaced. If religious radicals take over all or part of Iraq, we may have to go back in again and finish the job. Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton believe we should retreat regardless of the circumstances on the ground in Iraq. This would hand the terrorists a great victory and leave America in a weakened and dangerous position. We must give the surge more time to work.======JEFF STROEHMANN (REPUBLICAN) Though the war for many years did not achieve desired results, it is clear that President Bush's ‘Surge' strategy is working and should be continued. The Democrats who call for immediate withdrawal or timetables are only benefiting our enemies. I support the surge strategy because it is our best method to achieving the ultimate goal of victory. We must continue to support our brave men and women serving in Iraq and Afghanistan. Our soldiers are the best in the world and have proven that in the harsh environment there. As we progress towards success we must be willing to meet the challenges ahead. Our honor will come by not abandoning the Iraqi people in their time of need. A political solution needs to be achieved and we must work with the Iraqi government to ensure the stability and future success of their country.====JOHN STROUP (REPUBLICAN) Meeting the needs of our military as they face the fight against terrorism across the globe is a responsibility that Congress should never shy away from. As our military has implemented its new strategy in Iraq and continues to work hard on rooting out terrorism in Afghanistan, Congress should focus on meeting their needs and not needlessly arguing over proposals that would prevent our generals from doing the job Congress sent them to do in the first place. Any date certain for withdraw would not meet that test. We need to remember that Iraq is about terrorism, sacrifices our armed forces have made there fighting the terrorists have has kept the focus and resources of the terrorists off our shores and away from American civilians. Whatever decision we make in Iraq must protect American lives; and when we do leave Iraq, we must have a planned response to any future terrorist action - something no presidential candidate is currently willing to address.=====GLENN THOMPSON (REPUBLICAN) Withdraw of United States military forces is a decision that can only be accurately made by the commanders on the ground. I support our troops and the successes they are advancing in Iraq. As the father of a Purple Heart wounded warrior soldier, I am all too familiar that success in these times can come at a high sacrifice. I am confident that our armed services have found successful strategies with the implementation of the surge of troops. Following this change, the citizens of Iraq returned to the streets, children have returned to schools and the local businesses are now open. Most importantly, the local citizens have stepped forward as part of the security forces and local citizens groups to take the lead on the war on terror in their country. These are the key indicators best monitored by commanders on the ground as a basis for U.S. military withdraw. I support that we are currently in a transitional phase of the war with the Iraqi citizens demonstrating ever increasing responsibility for the safety and security of their country. This process will assure that Iraq is a stabile democracy in the Middle East. Then the men and women of our armed services will come home.====RICK VILELLO (DEMOCRAT) I do not support the war in Iraq as it is currently being executed. I believe we've won the war in Iraq and we are losing the occupation. I've signed on and sponsored a "Responsible Plan" to exit Iraq and it can be viewed on-line at http://www.responsibleplan.com.'>www.responsibleplan.com. I believe it is time for a diplomatic surge. I believe it is time for the Iraqi government to take control of its country.====DEREK WALKER (REPUBLICAN) I support the leadership and guidance that General Petraeus and our military leaders have provided. There is no doubt in my mind that the surge in Iraq is working. In order to have future stability in the Middle East, the United States must maintain a presence in Iraq. Pulling our troops out of Iraq before the country is fully stabilized would likely empower radical Islamic terrorist organizations. The United States must concentrate on building a strong central government geared at strengthening the Iraqi economy and maintaining peace between the Shiites, Sunnis, and Kurds. I believe that the war in Iraq has become too politicized. Regardless of whether one believes that was decision to go into Iraq was good or not, the United States must listen to our military leaders on the ground and always remain committed to supporting our troops.