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| FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE |
| State Rep. Mike Gerber |
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Gerber statement on decision not to seek re-election
CONSHOHOCKEN, July 19 – State Rep. Mike Gerber, D-Montgomery, today issued the following statement:
"Yesterday afternoon, I agreed to join the Philadelphia-based alternative investment firm Franklin Square Capital Partners as its Senior Vice President of Public Affairs, Strategy, and Product Administration, effective August 20, 2012. I will fulfill my legislative duties and represent my constituents through the end of this current term, but I will not stand for re-election this fall.
"I have made this decision only after engaging in careful deliberation with my wife, family and a few close friends and supporters. As you can imagine, it was not an easy one. Representing the constituents of the 148th District has been a great privilege. With grandparents and parents who were extremely involved in public service, I have always believed public service is among the highest callings. I've also learned public service comes in many forms, and I look forward to remaining involved in it, just not as an elected official at this time.
"While leaving the state legislature will be difficult, those who know me well know the demands and limitations of being a legislator often conflicted with my family obligations and aspirations. My new position will allow me to draw upon my experiences as a lawyer, legislator, and trustee of our state's retirement system, while being the kind of husband and father I aspire to be.
"I would have preferred announcing my decision at a time when I was not a candidate. An earlier announcement was not possible, however, because the opportunity to join Franklin Square did not crystallize until a few weeks ago, and I had to delay my considerations while I was engaged in the state budget process. I do not view staying on the ballot and resigning after Election Day an ethical alternative, because I do not want to ask my constituents for their votes knowing I would not complete the next term. Accordingly, I will soon withdraw my candidacy for re-election with the Pennsylvania Department of State. This timing assures there can be both a Democrat and a Republican on the ballot this fall, and the seat will have representation at all times.
"I am extremely pleased to be joining Franklin Square. I know the firm well through my service as a Director of one of Franklin Square's three funds. Franklin Square's founders, David Adelman and Michael Forman, are my friends, successful members of the business community, and generous philanthropists with a commitment to creating jobs in Philadelphia. Franklin Square's mission is laudable, as it provides individual investors and medium and small sized retirement funds, foundations and endowments access to effective investment strategies traditionally available only to high net worth individuals and large institutional investors.
"I know some friends, colleagues, supporters and party enthusiasts might be disappointed with my decision, and its timing. I hope they respect the opportunity this presents for my family and appreciate the effort I have given to serving the Commonwealth and my district over the past eight years. I will be forever proud of my office's work -- from our legislative accomplishments such as helping author the Commonwealth's smoking ban, to our work to preserve open space, to the many projects we've funded and led in the district such as the redevelopment of historic Broad Axe and the steady enhancement of the Conshohocken park system.
"I have been blessed to have been surrounded by incredibly bright, hardworking and caring staff in my local and Capitol offices. To you, I extend my deepest, most heartfelt gratitude. You are amazing people who have worked incredibly hard on behalf of our constituents. You have served with honor, passion and selfless devotion.
"Thank you also to those who have voted for me over the years. I hope the public service I have provided was everything you expected when you put your trust in me.
"I will also be leaving my law firm, Drinker, Biddle and Reath. I am extremely proud to be associated with Drinker. It is a wonderful institution with a distinguished history of excellent lawyering and civic leadership. I cherish my friendships at Drinker and will be forever grateful for the opportunity to work with such smart, decent and committed people.
"And most importantly, to my wife, my parents, my in-laws and my kids, thank you for supporting me and each other while I gave so much of myself to others. I love you and look forward to our future!"
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