By KIRK SWAUGER
SOMERSET — A young Somerset lawyer is the latest candidate in a crowded field to replace retiring state Rep. Bob Bastian, R-Somerset.
Carl Walker Metzgar, 26, of Allegheny Township outside Berlin, said Thursday he is seeking the Republican nomination for the 69th Legislative District in the April primary.
“My house looks out over the ridge between Somerset and Bedford counties and – every morning when I take in that view – it reminds me of what a special place it is in which we live,” Metzgar said in a statement.
“It’s my home and always has been. I owe much to those in the communities of this district that helped me over the years to make me the person that I am today. Running for state representative is my way of trying to repay that debt.”
A political newcomer, Metzgar is an attorney for the Somerset law firm of Yelovich & Flower. He graduated from Duquesne University School of Law in Pittsburgh, where he received the Judge Manning Award for the highest achievement in trial advocacy.
“In today’s complex legislative environment, it’s essential that our state representative have the legal background to fight for our district,” Metzgar said.
He said he will push for family-sustaining jobs, business expansion and new industries.
“We should recognize that our children can have a prosperous future if we bring back the core industries that supported their parents and grandparents, all the while searching for new industries that can be developed, even in the tough economic times ahead,” he said.
Metzgar, a graduate of Berlin Brothersvalley High School, is a lifelong sportsman who promises to fight against gun control.
He said he isn’t afraid of hard work.
“It’s easy to get caught up in legal intricacies and lose sight of what’s really important in life,” Metzgar said.
“That’s when I step back, build some fence and pitch some hay bales.”
Other Republicans seeking the seat include John Ferko of Shanksville, who nearly was elected Somerset County commissioner last year; Mike Brendle, a Lincoln Township businessman; and construction company owner Ed Sroka from Bakersville.
Democrats are Ken Warnick of Meyersdale, director of student services at Allegany College of Maryland, and Meyersdale Area English teacher Stephen Smerbeck.
