State Rep. Candidate Brings his Message of Change to M-burg Voters

Scott Barger, in his bid to be the state representative for the 80th District, is taking the opportunity to connect with constituents through his “Bagels with Barger” tour.

The 80th District includes Blair County and part of Huntingdon County.

The Restored Grounds coffee shop in Martinsburg was the second stop of six for Barger recently.

Barger is challenging incumbent state Rep. Jim Gregory, R-Hollidaysburg, in the upcoming 2024 spring Primary Election. Barger is seeking the nomination to be the Republican Party candidate. The Primary Election will be held April 23. The winner of the primary will face the Democratic Party nominee in the General Election, which will be held Nov. 5.

Rep. Gregory has held the seat since 2019.

Barger said he knows about the advantage that incumbents usually have but was determined to reach as many people as possible.

“This is my way of trying to see as many people as we can,” he said.

The recent stop at the Martinsburg coffee shop saw a good turnout, Barger said.

“Some people stayed here the whole time, while others were just coming and going,” he said.

Barger said many people wanted to know why he was running.

“I think it is time for a change — I think people deserve to have a record-based campaign,” he said.

Barger said he sees a need for a consistent conservative voice in the 80th District, and assures constituents that he will represent their interests in Harrisburg.

Martinsburg resident Greg Carlson said he liked Barger because he is a “fighter.”

“It is time we get someone who is a real fighter and will stand up for our values and core principals,” Carlson said.

Carlson said he likes opportunities to meet candidates because it is a chance to make a difference.

“You can sit down, tell them your concerns, and tell them what you’re happy and unhappy about,” he said.

Barger said he thought that people were “pretty receptive” to what he had to say.

“I love hearing why they live here and why they love this area,” he said.

Barger said it is a motivator when he meets the people that he might one day be representing.

“We may disagree on some things but on core issues we believe the same thing, which is encouraging,” he said.

The Bagels with Barger tour will make upcoming stops at Beech Tree Cafe in Hollidaysburg on Feb. 1, Biddle Brewing in Williamsburg on Feb. 8, Boro Coffee in Hollidaysburg on Feb. 15, and The Brew in Tyrone on Feb. 22.