Pennsylvania Rep. Jim Gerlach (R) made life a little easier for the GOP in the last day, when he reversed course to run for re-election after ending his gubernatorial bid. Gerlach first announced he was leaving the governor's race yesterday, but waited until today to announce his re-election plans.

An "overwhelming response" from constituents, he said in a statement, "reinforced the decision I have made ... to seek another term representing the great people of the 6th Congressional District."

"I truly believe that I represent the best chance for Republicans to not only hold this seat, but play a major role in regaining control of the U.S. House of Representatives," he said.

While primary challengers await him in his district, the move clears the gubernatorial primary field for Attorney General Tom Corbett, already the favorite to win. It also knocks down the number of Republican retirements in the House, which Democrats have used as an argument defending their own growing number of open seats.

"Jim Gerlach's decision to forgo his gubernatorial bid and stand for reelection in the House is one that I wholeheartedly support and welcome," said NRCC Chairman Pete Sessions. "Democrats in Washington are undoubtedly disappointed by this news."