Heimlich vs. Schmidt!

He's filed at the FEC

Read the story here

Here's his statement of candidacy

Here's the reaction from the National Republican Congressional Committee, courtesy of Malia Rulon

NRCC spokeswoman Julie Shutley said the party won't be getting involved in primary elections, even though Schmidt is an incumbent lawmaker.

"Ohio's second congressional district is a Republican seat and we have every confidence that it will continue to be in the red column after the next election cycle," Shutley said.

And here's what he e-mailed to supporters:

Dear Friends,

This week, after much thought and prayer, I have taken the first steps toward launching a campaign for Ohio's 2nd District Congressional seat by filing the necessary paperwork with the Federal Elections Commission.

I am pleased to tell you that we begin this quest with nearly $120,000 on hand, thanks to the generous help of loyal supporters. Even in the first few weeks of discussing this campaign, the encouragement I've received has been gratifying and humbling.I look forward to sharing my plans with grassroots activists and party leaders across the district in the coming months, and listening to your feedback and ideas.

As the parents of two young children, Rebecca and I are concerned about the future of our nation and our world. The GOP must recommit itself to being the party of good stewardship with regard to your tax dollars. Our party is yearning for a return to the principles established by Abraham Lincoln, the leadership and dignity demonstrated by Ronald Reagan, and the common sense conservative values shared by all Republicans.

The honest and hardworking families of Hamilton, Warren, Clermont, Brown, Adams, Pike and Scioto counties deserve to be represented with dignity and respect. That's the message I'll be taking across the 2nd District.

Thank you for your support over the years, and for your friendship and counsel. Please keep me in your prayers as I travel the district to speak with as many of you as possible. Please do not hesitate to contact me at any time. I look forward to seeing you soon.

With warm personal regards,

Phil