PAOLI, PA – Steve Welch, Republican candidate for Pennsylvania’s 6^th Congressional District, announced today that he was the overwhelming winner in a straw poll held by a coalition of conservative groups from across southeastern Pennsylvania.  The straw poll was conducted at the Tea Party Coalition Candidate Forum which took place this week.

“The candidate forum was a great opportunity to discuss my platform and share my ideas on how we can turn this economy around,” said Welch.  “I am honored that so many activists and attendees agreed with my message of bringing back accountability in Washington, and will continue to work hard to earn the respect and support of 6^th District voters and leaders.”

The Tea Party Coalition Candidate Forum was a chance for Gubernatorial, Senate, Congressional and other Republican candidates throughout the region to share their positions and discuss the important issues facing Pennsylvania voters.  The forum was sponsored by numerous organizations and coalitions, including the Republican Party of Pennsylvania, Let Freedom Ring, the Pennsylvania Conservative Council and the Republican Jewish Coalition.

The straw poll results were Steve Welch – 63%; Pat Sellers – 31%; Congressman Gerlach – 6%.

Steve Welch is the founder & former CEO of the Mitos Group, a leader in biotechnology solutions. Steve is also the co-founder of DreamIt Ventures, a unique venture firm that helps technology start-ups get off the ground. Over the past two years DreamIt has funded over 20 small businesses and helped nearly 100 entrepreneurs. In 2008 Steve was named Philadelphia Business Journal’s “Entrepreneur of the Year” as well as selected to its “40 under 40” list.

Most recently Steve was awarded the prestigious Eisenhower Fellowship to build bridges internationally in small business communities to drive job creation and economic development.