U.S. Rep. John Murtha's (D-Johnstown) comments Wednesday that western Pennsylvania is a "racist area" drew swift criticism from his re-election opponent, Republican Bill Russell.

Murtha's own 12th Congressional District lies in western Pennsylvania, a fact Russell seized on.

"Once again, Mr. Murtha is using the prestige and platform of his public office to make wild, reckless statement about the people he represents in Congress," Russell said in a statement, adding that it was the "cheapest of cheap shots."

The "once again" Russell mentioned refers to the impetus of his campaign, when Murtha said 12 marines in Iraq killed women and children in cold blood. The 17-term incumbent's remarks helped draw Russell, who was on active duty in the marines until July, to run against Murtha.

Murtha has used those comments to run a campaign portraying Murtha as a traitor to U.S. troops and out of touch with the district's values. Although still considered a long-shot, Russell's campaign has received national attention from some conservative commentators, which has helped the first-time candidate raise a considerable amount of money.

Murtha's remarks were also criticized by the campaign for Republican Presidential nominee John McCain.

"Today John Murtha attacked the people of Pennsylvania -- his own constituents -- as racist, explaining their resistance to Barack Obama's candidacy as a product of racism," said state Rep. Mike Turzai (R-Allegheny County), who is also the McCain-Palin western regional co-chair. "The people of Pennsylvania are concerned with Barack Obama's plans to raise taxes, his disdain for gun-owners, and his extreme liberal policies -- not the color of his skin."