Former Cong. Phil English

Local blogging is about to take a huge leap in credibility.

Peter Panepento has announced that former US Rep. Phil English (R-PA) will begin a new blog on GlobalErie.com in the coming days. Panepento says English will tackle Erie issues looking through Beltway-framed glasses:

But he remains closely connected to Erie and I expect that he will be able to provide an interesting view of how what’s happening on the Hill affects life in northwestern Pennsylvania.

English has told me that he plans to be non-partisan in his approach — so don’t expect this site to be falling into the Republican party machine.

Rep. English is now a lobbyist employed by the Arent Fox law firm in Washington. With his 14 years of experience representing this Congressional district, including occupying a seat on the powerful Ways and Means Committee, he will instantly become the highest-profile blogger on Erie issues. More than likely, he will also be one of the most controversial, as he accumulated a bevy of haters during his tenure in the Capitol.

The addition of English to the blogosphere in Erie further elevates a paradox in Erie blogging. For as strong as a Democratic foothold this area is, and with the natural bent of the blogging medium to be left-leaning, my anecdotal review of the local blog roster shows more conservative voices than liberal ones.  Is that just my perception, or are there fewer voices pounding for the progressives?