Encouraging Congress to focus on legislative priorities, U.S. Rep.

Phil English, R-3rd, voted Tuesday against the procedural measure that would advance automatic pay raises for members of Congress. The measure passed 230-170.

"At a time of real economic distress for many families in places like Western Pennsylvania, I think it is inappropriate for members of Congress to vote to give themselves a pay raise," English said.

"Congress should be working on issues to help Americans, especially increasing access to quality healthcare, securing the homeland and growing the economy."

English has introduced legislation to force Congress to vote directly on pay raises.

"This is a fundamental issue of accountability. If members of Congress want a pay raise they should be forced to vote for it in the full light of day instead of hiding behind a procedural vote like this," English said.

The pay increase is automatic under the annual adjustment procedure established in 1989.

Council 13 of the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees this week announced its endorsement of statewide candidates in the Nov. 2 election.

The labor union that represents more than 65,000 public service employees in Pennsylvania announced support for these candidates:

Republican Arlen Specter, U.S. Senate; Democrats Bob Casey Jr., state treasurer; Jim Eisenhower, attorney general; and Jack Wagner, auditor general.