Nathan Bech introduces himself to Rep. John Olver in Franklin County Fair Parade in Greenfield last month.
WEST SPRINGFIELD — Congressional Republican candidate Nathan Bech called the campaign staff of U.S. Rep. John Olver, D-Amherst, to congratulate the 17-year incumbent on winning Tuesday's Democratic primary.
"I congratulate John Olver and look forward to him finally joining me on the campaign trail," Bech said.
Bech also had kind words for Olver's Democratic primary challenger, civil rights attorney Robert Feuer of Stockbridge.
"Bob Feuer articulated some critical points about the poor responsiveness, availability, and priorities of the incumbent. It was an honor to share the trail with Bob on so many occasions," Bech said.
Feuer garnered his showing with less than $10,000 spent. The first-time candidate faced an incumbent with $350,000 in the bank.
"This primary, the first Olver has ever faced, shows that something is different in 2008. People want change and some of Nathan's biggest supporters are former John Olver supporters. He's lost touch over the last few terms," said Bech press secretary Brian Murphy. "Constituents are calling his office over and over without getting any response. We hear the stories all the time. A call to Richie Neal's office is now the front line for many residents in the First Congressional District."
Bech spent August holding 26 town meetings throughout the district, all of which Olver declined to attend. Congress was on break during the meetings. Feuer attended several of Bech's forums.
Bech has been endorsed by former Gov. A. Paul Cellucci, his successor Jane M. Swift and former congressional candidate James Ogonowski.
Bech and Olver will face off in the November election.
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