State Rep Sims Announces Primary Election Challenge To Embattled Congressman Fattah
By Pat Loeb
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- Pennsylvania State Representative Brian Sims has announced he's running for the congressional seat held by Chaka Fattah. He's the third announced challenger to the 11-term congressman.
Sims announced his candidacy Tuesday in a YouTube video that features Donald Trump and Kentucky anti-gay-marriage clerk Kim Davis.
It does not mention Congressman Fattah, who has seldom had any primary challenge and now faces a crowded and growing field. The difference now, of course, is that Fattah is under federal indictment for alleged misuse of campaign funds and other charges.
Fattah maintains his innocence and says he welcomes the challenge.
"I think that it will be great that the voters of the district will have a chance to have their voices heard," Fattah says, "and I have every confidence we'll get an opportunity to continue to do our work in Washington."
Sims did not respond to interview requests. He defeated a 28-year incumbent to win his current seat in 2012, becoming the first openly gay member of the legislature.
