By Uncle Irvin

According to sources within the Chester County GOP power structure, State Rep. Chris Ross will involuntarily retire in favor of East Marlborough Supervisor Cuyler Walker in the 158th Legislative District.

Ross has served nine terms (18 years) and his constituents have nothing to show for it. Ross was virtually ineffective and never got a caucus leadership position, despite his seniority. Already wealthy, he will be eligible for a humongous pension, so there is no need to feel sorry for him.

Cuyler Walker, a longtime Chairman of East Marlborough Supervisors, is a partner in the Pepper Hamilton law firm and is a graduate of Yale University, and the University of Pennsylvania, Penn's Wharton School, as well as Penn's law school. Uncle Irvin views this change positively because Walker has the intellect and credentials to become a leader, not only in the General Assembly, but the state itself.

Now, the Chester County GOP should replace Joe Pitts in Congress. Pitts has spent 40 years on the public payroll, 24 lackluster years in the State House, and 16 backbench years in Congress. Speaking of public pensions, Pitts would collect at least $150,000 a year in combined pension benefits for his state and federal service. Pitts may be eligible for a lump sum payment of $1 million.

Not too shabby!