Tim Holden

Thomas Timothy Holden (born March 5, 1957), American politician, is a member of the United States House of Representatives since 1993. He represents the 17th District of Pennsylvania (map) and is a member of the Agriculture Committee, the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, and the Resources Committee. Holden, one of the most conservative Democrats in the House, is part of the centrist Blue Dog Coalition.

Related Topics:
March 5 - 1957 - American - United States House of Representatives - 1993 - Pennsylvania - Conservative - Democrats - Centrist - Blue Dog Coalition

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In 1980, Holden earned a bachelor's degree in sociology from Bloomsburg University of Pennsylvania and became a licensed real estate agent and later an insurance broker (1983). He has worked as a probation officer, sergeant-at-arms for the Pennsylvania House of Representatives, and was the sheriff of Schuylkill County, Pennsylvania.

Related Topics:
1980 - Sociology - Bloomsburg University of Pennsylvania - Sergeant-at-arms - Pennsylvania House of Representatives - Schuylkill County, Pennsylvania

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Holden represented the 6th district, based in Reading from 1993-2003. The 2000 redistricting dismantled Holden's old district and placed his home in the Harrisburg-based 17th district, an apparently unwinnable (and blatantly gerrymandered) district represented by 10-term Republican George Gekas. However, Holden surprised everyone by running for reelection. Forced into his first competitive race ever, Gekas was surprised to find much of his old base endorsing Holden. In one of the most stunning upsets of the night, Holden narrowly defeated Gekas.

Related Topics:
Reading - 2003 - Harrisburg - Gerrymandered - George Gekas

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In 2004, Congressman Holden ran for re-election against Republican lawyer Scott Paterno, son of Penn State football coach Joe Paterno. Paterno was activly supported by influential Republicans such as President George W. Bush and Vice-President Dick Cheney. Nevertheless, Congressman Holden won re-election by a comfortable margin.

Related Topics:
2004 - Football - Joe Paterno - George W. Bush - Dick Cheney

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