Callahan approaches Democratic leaders about a run

[Freddie Stubbs]

Bethlehem mayor eyeing challenge to U.S. Rep. Dent for 15th District seat next year

By Josh Drobnyk | CALL WASHINGTON BUREAU
June 24, 2009

-- Democrats have tried -- and failed -- for years to persuade Bethlehem Mayor John Callahan to run for Congress. But there are signs he might be persuadable this year.

Callahan, who in March said he wasn't interested and has twice before turned down a run, has approached party leaders in Pennsylvania in recent weeks to broach the idea of challenging U.S. Rep. Charlie Dent next year.

It's a prospect that, despite Callahan's flirtation with a bid in the past, has the party abuzz about its chances of picking up another congressional seat in the state.

''He is seriously contemplating a bid,'' said state Democratic Committee Executive Eirector Mary Isenhour.

more: http://www.mcall.com/news/local/all-a1_5mayor.6937790jun24,0,5323341.story