Politics on the Main Line (and the United States)

Obama Kanye

2009-09-22T12:52:00.002-04:00

Obama on Letterman

2009-09-22T12:40:00.004-04:00

Apparently he's the first sitting president to ever appear on the Late Show. That doesn't sound right to me, but a quick Google search didn't reveal anything to the contrary.

10. Heard the lady with the heart shaped potato was gonna be here.

9. Thought it would be fun to watch someone else get heckled

8. Something to do with that whole cash for clunkers deal

7. Every president since Teddy Roosevelt has done it

6. Someone offers you 600 bucks you take it ladies and gentlemen

5. We told him Megan Fox would be here

4. Needed some time to hang out before check in time at his hotel

3. I have no idea

2. Said yes, without thinking, like Bush did with Iraq.

1. Wanted to congratulate Dave on the big Emmy win.

Does Bill O'Reilly support the public option?

2009-09-18T19:00:00.000-04:00

We're Back!

2009-09-16T01:21:00.000-04:00

At the public's request, we are officially back in business! Stay tuned for updates...

Financial Crisis

2008-11-13T11:30:00.002-05:00

The following video is excellent. It is almost laughable at how dead wrong all the so-called "experts" are, with the notable exception of Peter Schiff, an economist of the Austrian free market school. All the experts laugh at Schiff's doom-and-gloom predictions for 2008, but we now see who's having the last laugh...

Update

2008-11-12T12:52:00.001-05:00

Election's over. But don't fear, political junkies! There will be local Tredyffrin supervisor campaigns shortly!

Until then, it's been fun...

Today's the day...

2008-11-04T09:54:00.003-05:00

To elect a new president. New blood in the House, Senate. State House and Senate.

Today's the end of mailers, robo calls, leaflets, flyers, pamphlets, and any other piece of paper that, when someone hands you, it is as if they are saying, "Here, you throw this out."

Today's the end of the lawn signs (though you do have the constitutional right to keep them up!).

So, Go on! Get Out The Vote!!

Spreading the wealth (oops...candy) around, this halloween...

2008-10-30T22:26:00.000-04:00

Here's a post taken from the Campaign for Liberty blog

2008-10-30T13:19:00.002-04:00

The most eye-opening civics lesson I ever had was while teaching third grade. The presidential election was heating up and some of the children showed an interest. I decided we would have an election for a class president. We would choose our nominees. They would make a campaign speech and the class would vote.
To simplify the process, candidates were nominated by other class members. We discussed what kinds of characteristics these students should have. We got many nominations and from those, Jamie and Olivia were picked to run for the top spot.
The class had done a great job in their selections. Both candidates were good kids. I thought Jamie might have an advantage because he got lots of parental support. I had never seen Olivia’s mother. The day arrived when they were to make their speeches. Jamie went first. He had specific ideas about how to make our class a better place. He ended by promising to do his very best. Every one applauded. He sat down and Olivia came to the podium. Her speech was concise. She said, “If you will vote for me, I will give you ice cream.” She sat down. The class went wild. “Yes! Yes! We want ice cream.”
She surely would say more. She did not have to. A discussion followed. How did she plan to pay for the ice cream? She wasn’t sure. Would her parents buy it or would the class pay for it. She didn’t know. The class really didn’t care. All they were thinking about was ice cream. Jamie was forgotten. Olivia won by a land slide.
Every time Barack Obama opens his mouth he offers ice cream, and fifty percent of America reacts like nine year olds. They want ice cream. The other fifty percent know they’re going to have to feed the cow.

This election year, I'll pass on the ice cream...

Good thing Pennsylvania allows you to write-in your presidential vote...

Drucker/Ciarrocchi Profiles up

2008-10-30T11:58:00.001-04:00

Ciarrocchi profile.

Drucker profile.

Hopefully the podcasts will be up soon.

News from the 7th congressional district

2008-10-28T15:20:00.004-04:00

The state Dems say candidate Craig Williams' TV ad violates FCC law, while the Williams campaign warns of planned defense cuts and loss of jobs in region by Obama and Democrat-led Congress.

Pennsylvania State Democratic Party Calls Out Williams Campaign for FCC
Violation; Questions Source of Funds for Political Ad and Campaign Office
Space

Just a few days after Craig Williams for Congress was cited for
failure to pay rent on campaign office space in violation of Federal
Election Commission (FEC) laws, Pennsylvania state Democratic Party chair
T.J. Rooney has demanded that a television advertisement approved by
Williams be taken down because it does not comply with Federal
Communications Commission (FCC) disclaimer requirements. Williams is the
Republican candidate for Pennsylvania's 7th Congressional District.

Pennsylvania Democratic Party Chair T.J. Rooney sent a letter to Comcast
today demanding that the advertisement be pulled because it does not meet
FCC regulations.

"Even as questions remain over the Williams campaign's failure to pay what
could amount to tens of thousands of dollars in rent for office space, new
questions emerged today when a television ad approved by Mr. Williams failed
to identify a sponsor," said Rooney. "Williams has some explaining to do:
Who paid for this ad?

"This violation may mean Williams forfeits his entitlement to the 'lowest
unit charge' for the duration of the election cycle. Because he did not
identify a sponsor of the ad, his campaign may be required to pay the same
rate for broadcast time that non-political advertisers pay.

"Furthermore, questions remain over why the Williams campaign is not paying
fair market value for office space. In an interview Sunday on NBC News 10's
'Live @ Issue with Larry Mendte,' Williams claimed the fair market value for
rent at his campaign headquarters located in a suburban shopping center
totaled only $3,500 over a period of nine months. If that were true, it
would have to be the greatest bargain in the history of Delaware County.

In reality, the fair market value falls between $3,000 and $4,000 a month,
which means Williams still owes in the neighborhood of $30,000 on the rental
space.

"You would think a Republican lawyer who campaigns as a 'law and order'
candidate and brags about 'busting up drug gangs' would place a higher
priority on following the rules," said Rooney. "Unfortunately, this is
standard operation procedure for the Delaware County Republican Party. But
today, we held them to account," Rooney added. "They must play by the rules.
They are not above the law."

Williams Warns of Planned Defense Cuts, Loss of Jobs in Region By Obama, Democrat-Led Congress

Obama says Boeing's V-22 is "poster child" of a weapons program he will consider canceling; Barney Frank advocates slashing defense budget by 25 percent

Republican Congressional candidate Craig Williams warned of sharp cuts in defense spending and new weapons systems under a possible Barack Obama Administration with the support of a Democrat-controlled Congress. Williams said those cuts could mean the loss of thousands of defense industry jobs in the region, including union jobs at Boeing if the V-22 and other programs are cut.

Williams raised the alarm after comments by Congressman Barney Frank (D-Mass.) -- the Chairman of the House Financial Services Committee -- called for a 25 percent cut in military spending. In the same interview, Frank stated "we don't need all these fancy new weapons." (Source:
Standard Times , 10/24/08).

On the campaign trail, Senator Barack Obama made similar comments, stating. "I will slow our development of future combat systems." Obama also said the "Osprey is a poster child" of a "big ticket weapon system" that he will review for possible cancellation. Obama made the statement to Caucus 4 Priorities a lobbying group and leading advocate of eliminating the V-22 program. The cancellation of the Osprey program falls under the organization's mission of "eliminating funding for unneeded Cold War-era weapons systems." Obama also offered praise to that group and its efforts to cut spending for defense programs. "Thanks so much to the Caucus4Priorities for the great work you've been doing." (Source: Investors Business Daily , 10/27/08; Caucus4Priorities website ; Audio of Obama Statement ).

Williams expressed alarm about Democrats' plans to slash defense spending, including cuts to weapons programs and the V-22. The defense industry dominates the region's manufacturing industry with major employers such as Boeing, Lockheed-Martin and Alloy Surfaces employing more than 10,000 employees in defense-related industries in the 7th District.

"The Democrats have the wrong approach for a number of reasons," said Williams. "First, the Democrats' planned cuts will compromise our national security and our ability to defend democracy and freedom throughout the world. Second, the Democrats' proposals will devastate the local industrial base, resulting in the loss of thousands of jobs for working families in the Delaware Valley . By investing in defense, we are investing in our national security and our working men and women. Democrats want to cut tangible projects that result in manufacturing jobs to fund more handouts. That is bad public policy and it will hurt our economy."

"Congressman Sestak may talk a good game on these issues but in reality he has voted with Nancy Pelosi and the Democratic leadership in Congress 97 percent of the time," said Williams. "Joe Sestak has shown no independence from the leadership of his party and given that record, I have no confidence that he will do so in the future. If elected, I will fight these proposed cuts tooth and nail."

Another good read about the election

2008-10-24T10:49:00.001-04:00

About political signs disappearing. Maybe it's the townships enforcing their illegal ordinances?

My newspaper article on the 157th debate...

2008-10-24T10:46:00.000-04:00

Link.

17th District state Senate race

2008-10-24T10:44:00.002-04:00

Profiles and podcasts are up on the Web of the two candidates, Republican Lower Merion Township Commissioner Lance Rogers and 149th District state House Rep. Daylin Leach.

Lance Rogers.

Daylin Leach.

Radnor Studio 21 - Talking Politics

2008-10-23T13:07:00.002-04:00

Today, Main Line Life Managing Editor Tom Murray and I talked politics as part of Main Line Life the Television Show, filmed at Radnor Studio 21 in Wayne.

We chatted about the 6th and 7th U.S. Congress races, the presidential election, and the 157th state House race.

Obviously all Radnor residents can view the program, and I think Tredyffrin Verizon subscribers can also.

Recent Endorsements

2008-10-23T13:01:00.002-04:00

The following are some recent endorsements for the candidates from the 157th District state House race and from the 7th District U.S. Congress race.

Small Business Backs Guy Ciarrocchi for State House

Pennsylvania’s leading small business association—the National Federation of Independent Business—announced its endorsement today of Guy Ciarrocchi for state House.

“Guy Ciarrocchi will be an advocate that small business owners can count on to fight through the gridlock and partisanship to do what’s right for Pennsylvania’s economy,” said NFIB State Director Kevin Shivers.

“As an experienced leader with a background in state and local government, Guy has earned the respect and trust of small business owners throughout the community. That's why NFIB small business members enthusiastically support his election to the state House.

“Guy will stand up for Main Street small business owners, manufacturers and family farmers—he knows they are the backbone of our economy and the key to our economic recovery.”

Shivers noted the endorsement comes from NFIB/PA’s political action committee, the Save America’s Free Enterprise (SAFE) Trust. Non-incumbents were given candidate questionnaires to assess their commitment to issues important to Pennsylvania’s small business owners, such as tax relief, health care reform and streamlining government regulations. Incumbents seeking an endorsement were judged on their voting records on small-business issues in the state legislature.

Small businesses are the driving force behind the Pennsylvania and national economies. According to the state Labor Department, 98 percent of all Pennsylvania businesses employ fewer than 100 workers. These businesses account for 52 percent of all jobs in the state.

With 14,000 members in Pennsylvania, NFIB brings considerable grassroots clout to pro-small-business campaigns, with voter education efforts directed to its membership. For more information about the NFIB’s grassroots political efforts, check out the organization’s website – www.nfib.com/politics.

And...

Drucker Endorsed by Fraternal Order of Police, Lodge #14, Montgomery County Joining Chester County FOP Lodge #11

Paul Drucker, candidate for the State House of Representatives 157 th District, has been endorsed by the Fraternal Order of Police, Lodge #14, in Montgomery County. The announcement follows a similar endorsement of Drucker recently from FOP Lodge #11 in Chester County.

Lodge #14 represents more than 1300 members in Montgomery County – including those that serve Lower Providence and West Norriton Townships, which are part of Drucker’s 157th District.

In a letter announcing the endorsement, Al Fazio, the Chair of Lodge #14’s Political Action Committee, wished Drucker success, saying “Your genuine concerns regarding positions that are important to law enforcement and law enforcement officers are greatly appreciated.”

Drucker said he was proud of the endorsement – both from the FOP in Montgomery and Chester Counties.

“We enjoy a very high quality of life in our region and one of the most important factors contributing to our success has been the dedicated men and women of law enforcement, who keep our families and neighborhoods safe,” said Drucker. “I am honored to receive this endorsement from the FOP, and as a state representative I will do everything in my power to ensure that our law enforcement personnel receive the resources and support they need to continue their outstanding service to our community.”

Drucker said that his priorities are in line with those of law enforcement, whether they are broader issues such as social security, strong schools and access to health care, or issues more specific to police like providing pension benefits and collective bargaining rights.

“Our law enforcement officers put themselves in harm’s way every single day, and they deserve to have advocates in Harrisburg who not only appreciate their service but will provide leadership on the issues important to them,” Drucker said.

And finally...

Williams Earns Chamber of Commerce Endorsements

Craig Williams announced today that he has received the endorsement of the Chester County Chamber of Business and Industry and the Main Line Chamber of Commerce in his campaign for Congress in Pennsylvania ’s 7 th District. Williams believes strongly in reducing taxes and cutting government red tape to fuel the growth of small businesses and job creation.

“It is an honor to have the backing of these two organizations that represent the interests of small businesses,” said Williams. “When it comes to protecting the interests of small business owners, Joe Sestak and I could not be further apart. Joe Sestak supports Barack Obama’s tax plan that would hurt individuals like Joe the Plumber. In contrast, I have pledged to oppose any tax increases, not just on small business owners, but on individual taxpayers as well.”

Williams also noted that Sestak is an original co-sponsor of H.R. 800, legislation that would strip workers of their right to a secret ballot when deciding whether they want to form a union.

“The right to a secret ballot is a cornerstone of our democratic system,” said Williams. “It amazes me that Joe Sestak would co-sponsor and vote for legislation that would strip workers of this fundamental right. This will hurt workers and it will hurt small business owners throughout the 7 th Congressional District. His decision to support this anti-democratic, anti-business legislation how out of step he is with the values of residents of the 7 th District.”

Sestak received a 0 percent rating from the Pennsylvania Prosperity Project, a non-partisan coalition of Pennsylvania business organizations and trade associations, during the 2008 Congressional session. His voting record in 2007 was not much better, earning him just a 7 percent rating from the organization. Key votes include Sestak’s support for increased taxes on small businesses and opposition to domestic energy production and recovery.

“It is clear that Craig Williams understands that Pennsylvania is struggling to create jobs and that he recognizes the actions that must be taken to create a pro-business environment and spur economic growth,” said
Marianne Martelli, Vice President of Operations of the Chester County Chamber of Business & Industry . “On behalf of the Board of Directors and the Chamber’s 1,600 member companies, employing 60,000, we thank Craig Williams for his support and are proud to endorse him for election to the U.S. Congress in Pennsylvania ’s 7 th District.”

The Chester County Chamber of Business & Industry is Chester County ’s largest pro-business advocacy organization with more than 1,600 member companies employing more than 60,000 people. The Main Line Chamber of Commerce represents 1,500 members spanning nine boroughs and townships constituting the region known as the Main Line.

Ciarrocchi/Drucker Debate

2008-10-20T16:23:00.003-04:00

Guy Ciarrocchi and Paul Drucker had their second debate yesterday at the Tredyffrin Township building. During the event, which was hosted by the League of Women Voters, the two candidates offered concise responses to a number of questions.

In answering most questions, the two largely stayed in the middle of the spectrum.

You can check out this week's Main Line Life for my take on the debate.

In the meantime, take a look at my colleague Dan Kristie's story.

Sure Wall Street's to blame, but so is the federal government

2008-10-17T11:08:00.004-04:00

This is the most lucid argument for the causes of the financial collapse that I have read. The American People need to stop listening to what the blogs (me included), the press (me again), and the federal government have to say about the state of our financial markets, and start listening to independent economists such as Peter Schiff.

Obviously the leftists are going to blame the collapse on deregulation; just as obviously, the federal government and the Fed (a quasi-governmental agency), and the neocons are going to try to prop up the financial system they have helped to destroy.

This raises the question: Who's really looking out for you?

Who do you believe?

Here's Schiff's argument.

In other news...

2008-10-16T00:04:00.001-04:00

PHILS WIN!!!!!

Craig Williams to run radio ad featuring Sarah Palin

2008-10-15T14:06:00.004-04:00

Craig Williams, Republican candidate for the 7th congressional district announced that he has launched a new radio commercial that features something no other Congressional candidate has – a personal endorsement from Vice Presidential candidate and Governor of Alaska Sarah Palin.

The radio advertisement, which is now airing on the WPHT “The Big Talker” and KYW Newsradio, highlights Williams’ service to his country and community and platform of reforming Washington, D.C. Listen to the ad here.

Williams hopes for additional campaign contributions to increase the number of airings of the advertisement.

“The only thing that separates me from Craig Williams on reforming Washington is, well, lipstick,” says Palin in the new ad. “John McCain and I intend to drain the
Washington swamp. We need people like Craig Williams in Congress, not the current crew that has so well earned the lowest public approval ratings of any Congress in American history. Craig is a real American hero, a decorated Marine who flew 57 combat missions in the Gulf War. Craig has also fought for us at home, a federal prosecutor who busted up drug gangs and took violent illegal immigrants off the streets.”

The 7th Congressional District of Pennsylvania, comprising most of Delaware County and parts of Montgomery and Chester Counties.

Palin recorded the radio spot during her recent visit to Media, Pa. with Senator John McCain. She agreed to tape the endorsement because of her strong ties to Williams, who has a close relationship with the Alaska Governor. Williams’ brother served as her speechwriter during her run for governor and he has had the opportunity to meet with her on numerous occasions. Most recently, he sat down with her for a private meeting during her visit to Philadelphia for the National Governors’ Association meeting in June and again a few days later for a joint press conference during his visit to Alaska to promote increased domestic oil production. Williams was an early and vocal proponent of Sarah Palin for Vice President since early summer.

“It is a tremendous honor to be the only Congressional candidate personally endorsed by Governor Sarah Palin,” said Craig Williams, a former federal prosecutor and 21 year veteran of the U.S. Marine Corps. “While Joe Sestak attempts to cast himself in the role of a bi-partisan reformer, his record of voting with Speaker Nancy Pelosi and the Democratic Party 97 percent of the time in Congress shows that is clearly not the case. I look forward to working with Governor Palin and John McCain to bring about real change and reform in Washington, D.C. and fight for the interests of middle-class Americans.”

One day after the ad first started airing, Congressman Joe Sestak sent out an urgent plea to his fundraising base asking for new donations and noting that the ad “is the only endorsement that Governor Palin has made this election cycle of any candidate running for office across our nation” and expressing concern that “Governor Palin has in fact energized my opponent's base, and his field operation.” Sestak’s fundraising plea notes that “Governor Palin's ad has the potential to be a ‘game-changer’ due to the 60,000 Republican voter registration in our District.”

New candidate profiles and podcasts...

2008-10-15T13:54:00.003-04:00

Profiles and podcasts of the candidates running for the 7th U.S. congressional seat, incumbent Democrat Joe Sestak and his opponent, Republican W. Craig Williams, will be available on www.mainlinelife.com, shortly. The profiles will appear in the print version of Main Line Life as well.

Also, look for profiles and podcasts of the candidates for Pennsylvania's 149th state House seat: Republican Lynne Lechter and Democrat Tim Briggs.

Former and current Tredyffrin Supervisors react to Drucker mailings

2008-10-14T14:13:00.002-04:00

In a letter sent to the local press, former and current Tredyffrin supervisors repudiate charges found in recent mailings on behalf of Paul Drucker's 157th state House campaign.

The text of the letter is as follows:

As individuals who are current or former Tredyffrin Township Supervisors, we wish to address recent political campaign mailings sent by the Paul Drucker campaign for State Representative.

Drucker has suggested that Guy Ciarrocchi "hired" former Township Treasurer, Harry Marrone, and that taxpayers "lost $75,000."

First, Marrone was hired by the Township Manager twelve years before Guy Ciarrocchi was a supervisor.

Marrone's wrong-doings came to light during the summer of 2004, Guy's first year on the Board of Supervisors. Immediately upon discovery of his actions, Marrone was turned over to the police and District Attorney.

Second, Marrone's theft of taxpayer dollars ended with full restitution.

As part of his confession for theft and plea bargain with the District Attorney, Marrone repaid every cent he stole. He also paid for an independent audit to ensure that no other taxpayer monies were taken or mishandled.

Third, to protect taxpayers into the future, Supervisors – including Guy Ciarrocchi -- established a bi-partisan Task Force to review township policies on the handling of all township dollars to prevent such an occurrence from happening again. The recommendations of the Task Force were adopted and are in place today.

We recognize that the Board is ultimately responsible for all Township matters.In this case and in others, Supervisors acted responsibly within the limits of their knowledge and always in the best interest of the citizens and taxpayers of the Township.

Those are the facts. We thought you should know.

Sincerely,

Stephen S. Aichele, John G. Bravacos, Bill DeHaven, Judy L. DiFilippo, Warren E. Kampf, Paul W. Olson, John W. Shimrak

Rendell's Endorsement of Drucker

2008-10-13T10:31:00.004-04:00

Pennsylvania Governor Edward G. Rendell endorsed Paul Drucker for the State House of Representatives at an event in Phoenixville Saturday night, saying that Drucker would bring maturity, good judgment and a willingness to make tough decisions to the legislature.

"I have had the good fortune of knowing Paul for almost all my working career,” Rendell said, noting that he and Drucker started out as young assistant District Attorneys in the Philadelphia District Attorney’s office under Arlen Specter in the 1970s. “I have watched his career and he is going to be a terrific legislator. Not only is he going to vote the right way, but he is going to lead by example. And it’s absolutely true that we need more good people in Harrisburg.”

Rendell said that the state is facing many critically important decisions and he wants people in the General Assembly who will understand what must be done and can work effectively on behalf of the people and the Commonwealth.

“The first prerequisite to being an effective legislator is to be a good person,” Rendell said. “If you are not a good person you aren’t going to be an effective legislator. And Paul is a very good person who is in it for the right reasons. For him to undertake this effort is great, and he will bring maturity, he will bring good judgment, he will bring the willingness to step up and do things that aren’t necessarily popular in the short run to encourage others to do those things, he will bring them to the legislature and that has a way of putting emphasis and a way of being contagious.”

Rendell said that Drucker’s life experience and his dedication to his community as well as his willingness to speak his mind will make him an instant leader in Harrisburg.

“It absolutely is true that when other legislators see another legislator stand up and bite the bullet, and do something that difficult that is the right thing to do, it makes it a little easier for them,” Rendell said. “And I think Paul – because of his maturity – is going to be an instant leader in our caucus, to help shape the caucus, to lead the caucus in the right direction.”

Rendell said that too many legislators are focused on short term issues and fail to see the long term needs of citizens and the commonwealth. He said those are the toughest votes to cast, and he expressed confidence that Drucker is someone with perspective who can be counted on to show vision and wisdom in the legislature.

----

UPDATE:

In other 157th news, Republican candidate Guy Ciarrocchi and Democratic candidate Paul Drucker will join Alen Specter at an event in Phoenixville this morning...

Don't you just love when towns violate Free Speech?

2008-10-10T09:45:00.003-04:00

I find it funny that Main Line township officials stonewall reporters when asked about unconstitutional ordinances they have on the books. Can't they at least try to justify their reasons for violating the First Amendment? Seriously, just make something up. Whenever there is an issue that township officials want to go on the record about, they are sure to answer reporters' calls. And if for some reason they don't, and the reporter notes in his article that 'repeated phone messages were left unanswered,' suddenly the township officials cry foul, saying their portrayal as evasive is inaccurate.

Tough.

Township staff and elected officials must answer to the people and to the press. We have a right to know what they are doing, and we have a right to know why they decide to violate the Constitution in their lawbooks.

I'm not a Constitutional law expert or anything, but last time I checked, the Constitution is not a "living" document open to whimsical interpretation and change. If the Founding Fathers wanted it that way, they would have simply made the Constitution a blank page and told the people to write it as they go. No, instead they spelled out, perfectly clear, the way government should work, and left avenues for amending it.

Cry Baby Cry

2008-10-09T23:00:00.002-04:00

Cry baby cry
make your mother sigh
They're old enough to know better
So cry baby cry

Daylin and Lance.

Guy and Paul.

Re: Daylin Leach's Letter to the Editor from last week

2008-10-09T22:56:00.003-04:00

	In this week's Main Line Life:
	By Lance Rogers
	Last week, my opponent, Daylin Leach, submitted a negative op-ed piece alleging that my campaign is based on lies and personal attacks. Voters deserve to know the truth. Daylin denied taking steps to weaken our DUI law. The truth is that on July 7, 2003, Daylin proposed amendment 2826 to Pennsylvania’s DUI Law to enable drivers to operate a motor vehicle with levels of illegal dugs in their blood. Daylin withdrew the amendment only after his colleagues, both Democrat and Republican, voiced their strong opposition. Instead of acknowledging or explaining his attempted amendment, Daylin now points to a completely unrelated portion of a separate bill and claims to have toughened the DUI law. Voters can read the official transcript from the floor of the House of Representatives, including Daylin’s statements and the debate regarding his amendment, at www.lancerogers.com. Daylin also denied being the only legislator to support continuing taxpayer funded luxury car leases for legislators. The truth is that on Feb. 22, 2007, a government reform committee was convened by Speaker O’Brien to consider, among other things, this issue. Daylin was the only politician to vote against eliminating this perk. Instead of explaining this vote, Daylin points to an unrelated hybrid car initiative implemented two years prior to the luxury car lease issue being raised. Voters can see the committee’s recorded votes on Speaker O’Brien’s own website: http://www.speakerobrien.com/Reform/votes/votes022207.pdf www.speakerobrien.com/Reform/votes/votes022207.pdf (see page 8). Daylin claims that I am running a negative campaign that ignores the important issues. The truth is that I have proposed a strong ethics reform package that will make government more transparent and accessible and will hold politicians accountable. I have pledged to work with the Rendell administration in implementing a plan to address Pennsylvania’s healthcare crisis. I have made public safety a priority and have been endorsed by every Fraternal Order of Police (FOP) organization in this district. I have promised to fight for our schools and teachers so we can provide our children the best education possible. I have also stressed the need to make Pennsylvania a more business friendly state so we can create local jobs, lower taxes and retain local graduates. In the past, like many voters in our area, I crossed party lines and voted for Daylin. I believed he was someone who had the courage to put good judgment before partisan politics. In Harrisburg, Daylin became another career politician whose record of poor judgment is troubling. Daylin’s recent attempts to muddy the waters in order to distract from his record is disappointing. Every fact cited by my campaign is 100 percent accurate and sources are footnoted in order to enable the voters to fact check themselves. I believe that the best decisions are made by a knowledgeable electorate. I pledge to be an independent minded State Senator who is honest, responsive, diligent, fiscally responsible, fair and forward thinking – so we can change Harrisburg. Most importantly, I will always put people before party politics.

Chester County's pro-business candidates

2008-10-07T17:53:00.002-04:00

Chester County Chamber of Business & Industry Announces Pro-Business Candidates

The Board of Directors of the Chester County Chamber of Business & Industry today announced its selection of pro-business candidates for the 2008 General Election.

“Today, we are proud to recognize those incumbents that have maintained a pro-business voting record in Harrisburg and Washington, D.C. ,” said Christopher Franklin, Regional President for Aqua America and Chairman of the Chamber’s Board of Directors.

Incumbents that have received the Chamber’s recognition are: Congressman Jim Gerlach, 6^th District; Congressman Joe Pitts, 16^th District; State Senator Dominic Pileggi, 9^th District; State Senator Andy Dinniman, 19^th District; State Representative Tim Hennessey, 26^th District; State Representative Curt Schroder, 155^th District; State Representative Chris Ross, 158^th District; State Representative Stephen Barrar, 160^th District; State Representative Duane Milne, 167^th District; and State Representative Thomas Killion, 168^th District .

The Chamber’s list of pro-business candidates also includes four non-incumbents that are either vying for open seats or are challenging current office holders. Craig Williams is the Chamber’s pro-business choice for the 7^th Congressional District. For the State House of Representatives, the Chamber’s pro-business candidates are John Lawrence for the 13^th District, Shannon Royer for the 156^th District, and Guy Ciarrocchi for the 157^th District.

"Pennsylvania is struggling to create jobs, and these four candidates recognize the actions that must be taken to create a pro-business environment and spur economic growth,” said Marianne Martelli, the Chamber’s Vice President of Operations.

The Chamber will be hosting a “Meet the Candidates” reception on October 27, from 5:30 p.m. to
7:30 p.m., at the Chamber’s Headquarters at 1600 Paoli Pike, Malvern.

The Chester County Chamber of Business & Industry is Chester County ’s largest pro-business advocacy organization with more than 1,600 member companies employing more than 60,000 people.

The 157th House race and the Web

2008-10-06T23:37:00.004-04:00

In such a close, heated battle for the state House, why has neither campaign taken full use of the Web, particularly blogs?

Both major party candidates use them profusely, and to much success. Obama has one, and McCain has three. I wrote about one of McCain's bloggers back in June, as he is a Main Line native. The blogger, Mike Goldfarb, commented on the ever-present role of the blogosphere and the Web in general in today's elections. Ron Paul's campaign for liberty features a prominent blog on its front page, and the Internet revolution that candidate created during this year's primaries was unprecedented.

But blogs aren't just for national races. People read blogs about local races, too. Look at John Peterson's blog, which is dedicated to Tredyffrin Township politics. Over 25,000 visitors since January!

Blogs can be a 24/7, CNN-style hub of everything from breaking news to rebuttals of an opponent's claims to analysis of debates, current national situations, etc.

In a modern, Internet-dominated world, in which the average worker spends a quarter of his or her time mindlessly surfing the Web, why not give that person one more Web site to check religiously each day?

Especially for those who love (and for those who loathe) this time of year - election time - when candidates are regularly bashing each other, a fresh Web page full of political gossip would be eaten up. If nothing else, constant clicks and page popularity simply get a candidate's name out to more potential voters.

Why haven't the 157th candidates - Guy Ciarrocchi and Paul Drucker - made effective use of blogs in their campaigns?

When Ciarrocchi's campaign launched slipandfallpaul.com I thought it would be a boon to his campaign for all the reasons listed above. However, with mere weekly posts that lack substance and are often a yawn-fest, it seems the blog (I wouldn't even call it a blog if it weren't published by WordPress) has fallen short of my expectations.

Then Drucker's campaign launched their own blog, whatkindofguy.com. Although this is, again, not a blog in the traditional sense, it strikes me as more effective Web usage than Ciarrocchi's site. While it is dedicated primarily to attacking Ciarrocchi's past, it does offer frequent - typically daily - updates and the kind of campaign gossip that people will eat up. Whether or not anyone will actually buy the caricature Drucker's campaign is trying to paint of Ciarrocchi is another story. There's no doubt that these daily updates and witty satirical entries are effective with blog readers and Web surfers.

With both candidates rebutting one another's mailers and TV ads with another mailer or another TV ad, why not simply create an effective blog to address and refute all of these allegations? Blogs are a cheaper, easier, and more convenient way (as opposed to mailers or TV ads) of getting one's message out there. That way, the candidate would have more than a few sentences (typically the amount of text on a mailer) to get his point - and the facts - across.

Kudos to Daylin Leach

2008-10-03T14:26:00.003-04:00

Daylin has continually condemned negative campaigning and has run a clean, positive campaign (and pledges to continue to do so). Meanwhile, attack ads pile up each day by his opponent's party.

Here's a letter to the editor by Daylin published in this week's Main Line Life:

Opposition's campaign is founded on lies
By Daylin Leach
Times have changed.When I helped run political campaigns 20 years ago, it was not uncommon to point out a disagreement with an opponent on a matter of policy. But back then it was usually done in an accurate and respectful way. The bulk of a campaign was dedicated to a candidate talking about his or her positive vision and the solutions they proposed to for the problems we faced. But more recently, it seems that campaigns have devolved into nothing more than negative, insulting 30-second attack ads. We are barraged by snarky pieces of mail with an unflattering picture of a candidate and massive distortions of their record. Candidates attempt to win not by providing a compelling positive vision, but by arguing their opponent is a bad person. Since the beginning of my political career I have rejected this form of campaigning. I believe it trivializes the issues, turns people off to the political process and, even worse, insults the dedicated citizens who are engaged in the process. Each election cycle one of the first pieces of mail I send out is a pledge that I will run an all-positive campaign, that my mail and TV will not insult my opposition, and that I will talk about why I think my ideas and record of accomplishment warrant my election. Once made, this pledge is always kept. It's not always easy. When someone attacks your character, lies about you, or tries to embarrass your family, your instinct is to strike back. However, in those moments, I think of my children reading my own campaign mail and whether or not I would be proud to have them do so. I then try to reach deep down and get in touch with what Lincoln referred to as "the better angels of our nature," and stay positive. I have always hoped that I would eventually have an opponent who respected the voters enough to want to have an intelligent debate about issues. No name-calling, no ugly hate mail, but an invigorating philosophical discussion on what's best for our future. When I decided to run for the Senate and found out that Lance Rogers was going to be my opponent, I allowed myself a moment of optimism. I had known Lance as a Lower Merion Commissioner and he had always been very courteous to me and my family. My optimism was enhanced when we met at a Chamber of Commerce dinner and he shook my hand, and pledged that he would join me in running an all-positive campaign. We both expressly agreed that we would give the people the type of campaign they deserve. Unfortunately, my optimism has proved to be misplaced by the type of campaign my opponent has chosen to run. After being extremely negative toward his primary opponent, Lisa Paolino, his general election campaign has also been almost entirely negative. All of his campaign communications ignore the important issues that confront our state, and instead use distortion and out-right lies in an attempt to paint me as corrupt, dishonest, and even evil. The most disturbing smear has been a shameful TV commercial claiming that I am "protecting cocaine and heroin users by weakening our DUI laws." I have a wife and two children who drive on the road every day. They mean absolutely everything to me. Why would I do anything to make them less safe? In reality, the DUI legislation that I passed toughens the law by creating blood levels so that people driving on drugs can be convicted - previously there were no such levels, and getting convictions was accordingly difficult for prosecutors. My proposal, as part of the larger DUI reform bill, passed unanimously in both the House and Senate. One of Lance's three pieces of negative mail (and counting) alleges that I "voted for luxury cars for politicians." In reality, my proposal brought Hybrid cars to the state fleet - a good policy that saves both the environment and your tax dollars. In his latest mailing, Lance even ridicules my family's name, something I've not heard since roughly kindergarten. Let's be clear: while Lance has had nothing to say and no solutions to offer on the environment, education, health care, crime, civil rights, or any other actual issue we face. When our families are faced with rising healthcare costs, a national economy in crisis, and the effects of global warming, is this really what we need? For my part, I again pledge to stay all-positive. If people want a Senator who will run the most negative ads, they have a clear option. But I challenge Lance to rethink the kind of campaign he is running and join me in renewing our pledge to run a positive, respectful and substantive campaign. The kind that, as Lance once said, "the people deserve." State Rep. Daylin Leach represents the 149th District, which includes parts of the Main Line.

Too bad for the kiddies this Halloween

2008-10-02T23:05:00.003-04:00

Bet they're gonna be seeing a lot of this

Which campaign is uglier?

2008-10-02T23:02:00.002-04:00

The 157th state House or the 17th state Senate race???

The 157th's ugliness has been well documented thus far on this blog. The 17th is getting bad. The Republicans are running a dirty smear campaign against Daylin Leach. More on that later.

Ciarrocchi an "Independent"?

2008-10-02T22:30:00.003-04:00

I don't think so, says the Drucker campaign:

Wayne, PA) – In his increasingly desperate attempts to hide from his past political activities with extreme and unpopular politicians, Guy Ciarrocchi has sent out a new piece of mail that prompted this question from the Drucker Campaign:

“Is Guy serious?” said Rex Carney, Drucker Campaign spokesman. “The people in this district are paying close attention to this race, and they know that Guy Ciarrocchi was the point person for the Bush-Cheney Campaign in 2004. They know that he has worked for politicians with extreme views, like Rick Santorum and Melissa Hart. For Guy to suggest that he is anything but an extremely partisan political operative is an insult to voters’ intelligence.”

“This shows that Guy will stop at nothing in his desperate effort to create the illusion that he is a moderate,” said Carney. “Voters in this district won’t buy it, and we are not going to let him get away with it.”

Carney made his comments in response to the latest piece of mail issued by the Ciarrocchi campaign, in which he suggests that he is an “independent voice,” and claims to differ with President Bush on policy issues.

"Guy Ciarrocchi suggesting he is an ‘independent” is nothing short of laughable,” said Carney.

Looks like local political blogger, John Peterson, tends to agrees with the Drucker campaign's analysis of Ciarrocchi's most recent mailer. Read his commentary Here.

Drucker recap

2008-10-02T14:06:00.000-04:00

Just got done my interview with Paul Drucker. It was shorter than I would have liked (scheduling conflicts), but I feel it was a productive and interesting discussion.

In short, Mr. Drucker impressed me as an in-touch, forthright candidate who would offer a “fresh perspective,” to quote him, to the state House.

For those who don’t know Mr. Drucker’s background, he has maintained a private law practice for most of his life. He spent two years on Tredyffrin’s Board of Supervisors, after winning a special election for the seat of, coincidentally, his current opponent for the 157th seat, Guy Ciarrocchi (Mr. Ciarrocchi vacated the seat to work for HUD).
Mr. Drucker was the first Democratic supervisor of Tredyffrin Township. “I brought a fresh perspective,” he said.

He has lived in Paoli for 27 years and has “watched it grow into where it is now.”

“I have a lifetime of experience helping people,” the candidate said of his career as a “litigation-oriented” lawyer. Specifically, “My concentration has been employment discrimination and civil rights,” he said. As he pointed out, “Running a small practice IS running a small business, and I’ve done that for 20-some-odd years.”

“I have a broad-based background both professionally and personally. ... I think I am ready as one can be,” he said of his readiness for the position of legislator.

“I want to fix Harrisburg,” he said, “because there is a mindset there – a feeling of entitlement.”

We also touched on the economy, taxes, school, and mass transit issues.

Drucker was well-versed on mass transit and the Paoli rail yard. One of the things he wants to accomplish is to make a manageable transit connection between Phoenixville and Paoli.

“Transportation from Phoenixville is horrendous,” he said.

Podcasts are up

2008-10-02T12:06:00.000-04:00

Here's a link to Main Line Life's Web site.

Gerlach flips on Bailout

2008-10-02T10:17:00.002-04:00

As reported by the Inquirer: He was pressured by those in the financial sector

Paul Drucker

2008-10-02T10:07:00.002-04:00

I'll be sitting down with Mr. Drucker in just a few minutes to go over what he wants to bring to the 157th District if elected November 4. We'll talk about his campaign, the issues, what he'll bring to Harrisburg, and may touch upon the battle with his opponent, Republican Guy Ciarrocchi.

Tonight's "Debate"

2008-10-02T10:00:00.002-04:00

Tonight, the Republic of America will hold its vice presidential "debate." Here, we will see two candidates representing the views of nearly 300 unique American individuals. With a whopping TWO candidates, let's expect to see a lot of divergent viewpoints! I'm sure each and every American will find something they can relate to. Or, if you're one of those Americans that feels like you're in that gray area (not black or white), then consider voting for a third party candidate!

Anyway, back to the "debate." Let's expect to hear a lot of non-answers from Palin. If I were Joe Biden, I would just pretend she wasn't there and focus on my own answers, rather than trying to battle back and forth. The fact that she doesn't answer questions will make it a little bit hard to take issue with what she says.

Here's an unbelievable clip in which Palin can't name a single newspaper:

Looks like some towns recognized their First Amendment Violations

2008-10-01T23:36:00.003-04:00

As seen in today's Inky: looks like Easttown decided to take down its "warning" notice on its Web site. Let's give it up for Liberty!

Too bad for the Inquirer that I beat them to this story months ago!

Next and Final Candidate Interviews:

2008-09-30T20:19:00.003-04:00

Mr. Paul Drucker, Democratic candidate for the 157th Legislative District, on Thursday (10/2) and Mr. Joe Sestak, Democratic Congressman in Pennsylvania's 7th District, on Friday (10/10).

I realize I never ran recaps of my interviews with Congressman Gerlach and with Craig Williams. However, I have given some recent blog space to Gerlach, and his profile is being printed in Main Line Life this week and the podcast will be on the Web site, so I won't reiterate what you can find in those two outlets.

And because Sestak's interview is the last one I'm doing, I won't recap that interview (to be fair to Craig Williams) and will let the printed profiles say it all.

You can expect, however, a recap and highlights from this Thursday's interview with Mr. Paul Drucker.

/end blog.

Gerlach and Roggio - Podcasts and profiles

2008-09-30T19:42:00.002-04:00

In this week's print version of Main Line Life, look for profiles of each of the candidates vying for Pennsylvania's Sixth Congressional District.

Also, podcasts from our recent interviews will be available on Main Line Life's Web site. Enjoy.

Here's Pa. Chamber of Business' endorsement letter of Guy Ciarrocchi:

2008-09-30T14:22:00.002-04:00

As business executives, we read resumes and interview potential employees every day. In reviewing the qualifications of the candidates in the race for state representative for the 157th District, it is clear who should get the job.

Guy Ciarrocchi’s background in local, state and federal government has positioned him to best understand the needs and concerns of his would-be constituents, as well as the intricacies of the legislative process. His election to the state General Assembly would be a natural and deserved extension of his proven service to the region and its residents.

Ciarrocchi also recognizes that in order for local communities to prosper, businesses must prosper, and that a climate must be created in the Commonwealth that fosters job creation and business growth.

This philosophy, combined with a solid knowledge of what is needed to improve a business climate that in many ways hinders growth, have earned him the endorsement of the Pennsylvania Chamber of Business and Industry.

Whether through his support of fixing a legal system that stifles innovation and leads to higher costs of goods and services; enacting tax reforms that will stop penalizing businesses for investing in the state; or reducing the cost drivers of health care needed to achieve meaningful reform for the long-term, Ciarrocchi will make decisions in Harrisburg that are truly in the best interest of the 157th District.

Citizens and job creators would be well served by Guy Ciarrocchi as their state representative.

Sincerely,

Floyd Warner
President
Pennsylvania Chamber of Business and Industry

Breaking News: Bailout Busted!

2008-09-29T16:17:00.004-04:00

The House steps up to the plate.

"Let's take a few extra days, and get it [the bill] right," said Congressman Gerlach during a 4:30 p.m. conference call with reporters. " ... It's got to be the right legislation, and if it takes a few extra days to get the right legislation, that's better than [rushing through]."

And here's more on Jim Gerlach's views about his "no" vote.

“Hundreds of my hard-working constituents who pay their mortgages and other bills on time simply can’t comprehend why the federal government wants them to hand over $700 billion with no questions asked and with no attempt to enact comprehensive reforms that will reduce the chances of repeating mistakes that created the current volatility.”

Here's the rest of the press release:

Congressman Jim Gerlach (PA-6 ^th District) on Monday voted against saddling taxpayers with a $700 billion tab that may never be repaid and that would have piled on $1.3 trillion to the already staggering federal debt.

The bill was defeated when 95 Democrats and 133 Republicans stood their ground and voted to put the interests of taxpayers first.

“There is a consensus among rank-and-file members on both sides of the aisle that we can and should do a better job on a financial rescue plan,” Gerlach said. “That’s why I am calling on my colleagues to get back to work as quickly as possible to pass a financially responsible plan.”

The measure would have given unprecedented power to the Treasury Department to buy junk mortgage-backed securities and other assets, and while important improvements had been made over the past few days, the bill still did not include adequate safeguards to ensure taxpayers would be repaid.

Further, the bill did not go far enough in limiting excessive executive compensation and did nothing to make sure the mistakes that led to the current market instability were not repeated.

“Congress needs to get the job done right so that businesses can create jobs, retirement nest eggs are protected and confidence in financial markets is restored,” Gerlach said. “Rushing to pass a complex bill cobbled together in just days is not the way to accomplish those goals. We need to pass sound policy not hurry to meet arbitrary deadlines.”

“Hundreds of my hard-working constituents who pay their mortgages and other bills on time simply can’t comprehend why the federal government wants them to hand over $700 billion with no questions asked and with no attempt to enact comprehensive reforms that will reduce the chances of repeating mistakes that created the current volatility.”

Clearly, there are other avenues that could be pursued before handing the federal government $700 billion. For example, suspending mark-to-market rules would give small businesses access to the credit they need to expand responsibly. In addition, the solvency of banks and security of deposits could be improved by increasing the limit on FDIC insurance.

“Something needs to be done. And I would gladly support a responsible measure that requires greater accountability and transparency on Wall Street while protecting the homes, pension funds and jobs of workers on Main Street,” Gerlach added. “This bill did not do that, and I cannot support it. Like most of my constituents, I do not understand why the administration demanded that we rush this bill into law. If we take our time and get this right, the markets will react positively.”

That doesn't sound right...

2008-09-27T15:22:00.003-04:00

For those who asked themselves that question during last night's presidential debate, the wonderful FactCheck.org is here to clarify the misstatements, exaggerations, hyperbole, and an occasional, downright lie.

Check your facts.

I can see Russia from my house!

2008-09-27T15:18:00.003-04:00

As reported by Politico, even some conservative pundits are questioning Palin's viability as a vice presidential hopeful:

Conservative columnist Kathleen Parker, a former Palin supporter, says the vice presidential nominee should step aside. Kathryn Jean Lopez, writing for the conservative National Review, says “that’s not a crazy suggestion” and that “something’s gotta change.”

Tony Fabrizio, a GOP strategist, says Palin’s recent CBS appearance isn’t disqualifying but is certainly alarming. “You can’t continue to have interviews like that and not take on water.”

“I have not been blown away by the interviews from her, but at the same time, I haven’t come away from them thinking she doesn’t know s—t,” said Chris Lacivita, a GOP strategist. “But she ain’t Dick Cheney, nor Joe Biden and definitely not Hillary Clinton.”

I wonder if it's answers like this that draw such criticism:

Ciarrocchi Endorsed by Organized Labor

2008-09-26T11:31:00.002-04:00

From Brian McCarthy, Ciarrocchi's campaign manager:

On Thursday, the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers announced that its two chapters in the 157^th District have endorsed Guy Ciarrocchi for State Representative.

Kevin Hassett, business agent for IBEW Local 654, stated that after sitting down and meeting with Ciarrocchi, both his chapter, which encompasses Chester County, and IBEW Local 380, which encompasses portions of Montgomery County, were "very impressed" with the candidate.

"We were very pleased with his stance on job creation for working families, his pro-business platform, and his overall support for the community," Hassett said. "Every aspect of Mr. Ciarrocchi's message resonated with Local 654 and Local 380, and for those reasons he has earned our chapters' endorsements."

The endorsement shocked many political insiders because organized labor groups traditionally line up behind Democratic candidates.

"I'm honored to receive the IBEW's endorsement. I think it shows that my campaign has reached across the typical partisan divide that has plagued our state for too long," said Ciarrocchi. "The members of IBEW provide vital services to our community and I look forward to working with them as State Representative to spur economic growth and job creation in our region and across the state."

17th DIstrict state Senate race

2008-09-23T15:48:00.000-04:00

Here's the first attack ad, to run on TV, by Lower Merion Commissioner and Republican candidate for the 17th District state Senate race:

More from Interview with Guy

2008-09-23T15:19:00.002-04:00

Some quotes:

On why he's running for state House:

It's "A personal commitment to public service. ... everybody in some way should try to help in their community or in their neighborhood and I've tried to do it both as a volunteer and as my profession." ...
"As someone who has spent his life trying to make government work effectively and more responsibly, I'm very distressed because of what's going on in Washington and Harrisburg, where the level of cynicism and skepticism is so high because of the scandals. ... Public confidence in the legislature is an all-time low." ...

"When Congress is at a 9 percent approval rating, when we're seeing the day-by-day scandals and indictments in Harrisburg, I want to be part of, what I hope will be, a reform movement to clean things up in a bipartisan way."

On what he would like to bring to Harrisburg:

"What I would like to bring to Harrisburg is a value of fiscal conservativism, and, I would say, common sense. Are there things the government's doing now, that we shouldn't be doing? ... Or are there things the government's doing that we could be doing more efficiently and less costly."

On spending:

"It's important as a fiscal watchdog to make sure that any money of the taxpayers that is given to a project is used wisely."

What is this race about?

2008-09-23T11:41:00.007-04:00

The 157th.

Is it about: Who can throw the most mud? Who has a more noble non-political career? Who associates with more honorable people?

Who cares?

Who really cares what kind of cases Mr. Drucker argued as a personal injury attorney? Who really cares whose campaigns Mr. Ciarrocchi helped in the past?

Instead of getting discourse about Harrisburg reform, education, and infrastructure we get Slip-and-fall Paul vs. What kind of Guy

What?

To both the candidates:

Sing Along!

You gotta accent-thu-ate the positive,
E-lim-inate the negative,
An latch on
To the affirmative
Don't mess with mister in-between!

Let's get down to the issues, and get away from the lip stick smears.

The Financial Crisis in 232 Seconds

2008-09-22T12:44:00.003-04:00

Here's a concise, under-4-minute video outline what led up to the financial crisis, the bailout, and the type of legislation we can expect once the bailout is finalized, courtesy of Politico.com

Inflation, Speculation, a Broke Nation - Oh My!

2008-09-19T11:27:00.002-04:00

The Federal Reserve was Hopping Today!!

2008-09-18T22:32:00.000-04:00

Debt.

More debt.

'Nuff said.

Tomorrow's interview and more on Guy

2008-09-18T22:18:00.000-04:00

Sorry I didn't get around to posting more from today's interview with Guy; I got a little sidetracked at work.

Tomorrow, I'm interviewing Craig Williams, Republican challenger to Joe Sestak's 7th District U.S. Congressional seat. I promise I'll have posts on that interview, and more on Guy, by the weekend (or over the weekend).

In the meantime, here's something to keep your spirits up! http://online.wsj.com/article/SB122169431617549947.html

First warrantless wiretapping now e-mail hacking?!?

2008-09-18T13:00:00.000-04:00

No, it's not Alicia Lane/Larry Mendte.

This time, it's the could-be-next vice president of the United States!

While it's apparently OK to wiretap civilians' telephone calls without warrants, hacking into a hockey mom's yahoo account is a no no.

Dare I say: Why the "double standard"?

Guy interview

2008-09-18T12:00:00.000-04:00

Just got back from an interview with Guy Ciarrocchi in his Devon campaign headquarters. Nice office; he shares it with state and national Republican campaigns as well.

The interview, which included Guy, myself, and Main Line Life managing editor Tom Murray, went well overall. Ciarrocchi strikes me as an honest, believable candidate, who sounds like he will actually stick to what he believes in when (if) he gets to Harrisburg.

On the issue of ethics reform, for example, Ciarrocchi said he will not only call for changes, but he will be the leader in those efforts if needed. Also, even if reforms aren't made in to law, he said he will, regardless, still espouse changes in his own office (i.e., won't accept lobbyist gift, will ban bonuses, and won't let taxpayer money pay for attorneys representing those legislatures involved in ethics scandals).

I will go through the recording of the interview (it will be put up on Main Line Life's Web site as a podcast whenever the story is run in the paper), and will update on this blog exactly what we talked about: the issues, his background, what he wants for the district, etc.

Check back shortly.

Guy Ciarrocchi

2008-09-18T09:31:00.012-04:00

In an hour, I'll be sitting down for an interview with Guy Ciarrocchi, Republican candidate for the 157th Pa. house District.

The 157th race, which features former Tredyffrin supervisor Paul Drucker as Ciarrocchi's Democratic challenger, has been heating up recently. This race will surely be the one to watch in coming months (the 17th District state Senate seat should be interesting, too).

I'll update with a post after today's interview, to let everyone know how it goes and what my unbiased impression is of Ciarrocchi as a candidate.

My Internet was down yesterday, hence the lack of posts. I'll try to be diligent with my posting; expect multiple posts a day.

How is a market "free" if the government is backing the major players?

2008-09-15T12:17:00.004-04:00

Ron Paul, libertarian congressman from Texas, predicted the mortgage meltdown five years ago. If only we had more government-watchdog-type representatives like him, we may have avoided the mess our country is in right now. Here is an excerpt of Paul's 2003 prediction:

“If Fannie and Freddie were not underwritten by the federal government, investors would demand Fannie and Freddie provide assurance that they follow accepted management and accounting practices…. By transferring the risk of a widespread mortgage default, the government increases the likelihood of a painful crash in the housing market. This is because the special privileges granted to Fannie and Freddie have distorted the housing market by allowing them to attract capital they could not attract under pure market conditions. As a result, capital is diverted from its most productive use into housing. This reduces the efficacy of the entire market and thus reduces the standard of living of all Americans.”

Why do Main Line townships have unconstitutional ordinances on the books?

2008-09-15T12:06:00.003-04:00

At the end of July, I first covered a story about the fact that Tredyffrin Township decided not to amend its sign ordinance to restrict political yard sign display prior to an election. Currently, the township has an ordinance that regulates such display after an election, requiring citizens to take their signs down within seven days of an election.

And most other townships have similar ordinances, regulating political lawn sign display both before and after an election period.

Sounds good, right? Who wants those lawns signs littering their towns? They're unsightly.

Well, the problem is, such content-specific regulations are unconstitutional. And I don't care how much of an eye sore lawn signs are, that doesn't give townships the right to trample on the Constitution.

Why haven't any Main Line towns taken the initiative to strike such regulations from the books? As you can read in my story, Lower Merion has taken steps to amend its ordinance, thereby making it in line with the Constitution.

Kudos to them. Now let's see if other townships will follow suit.

I plan to follow up with the local townships in time for the November election. Because in my driving around up and down the Main Line, it's apparent many citizens are violating the display ordinances.

Let's see if people have the guts to challenge their local government, and get back the rights guaranteed to them in our Constitution!

Gerlach interview

2008-09-15T11:16:00.003-04:00

Just got done a sit-down with Jim Gerlach, Republican U.S. Representative of Pennsylvania's 6th District. Based purely on sit-downs with both candidates four days apart, it's clear that Mr. Gerlach definitely has more confidence than his opponent, Bob Roggio.

Gerlach clearly knows his stuff and proved his fiscal conservatism (he recently voted against legislation that would authorize a "blank check" to bail out Freddie Mae and Fannie Mac). He recognized that Congress may need to pass a constitutional amendment that would limit federal spending and would mandate a balanced budget. Much like legislation currently in place in Pennsylvania, such an amendment would prohibit the government from spending more than it has. Sounds like a good way to get us out of the red, right?

Check back for more on the interview, and my thoughts on the 6th District race...

We're heading toward the 21st century's Great Depression

2008-09-14T20:53:00.002-04:00

Former Fed Chairman Allen Greenspan deemed the government intervention, bail out, and takeover of American businesses a "once in a century type event."

Government intervention in the free market

2008-09-14T17:26:00.005-04:00

With the recent government bailouts of once-booming companies, Bear Stearns, Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac, and most recently, Lehman Bros., Uncle Sam slips more and more into the world of fascism. Not only that, but the actions of the government may end up bankrupting our nation. Way to go, Boys!

From the article:

The end result of the global economic slowdown may be the U.S. announcing national bankruptcy as the government cannot afford the bailouts that it promised and the market will not bail out the government, Martin Hennecke, senior manager of private clients at Tyche, told CNBC on Thursday.
When the government can no longer pass the United States' "immense debt" on to taxpayers, it will turn to the holders of U.S. dollars, leading to the eventual downfall of the currency, Hennecke said.

6th District - Gerlach v. Roggio

2008-09-13T19:30:00.012-04:00

I'm expecting the debate between U.S. Rep Jim Gerlach and his Democratic challenger, businessman Bob Roggio to be a bullet-point, platform-regurgitating yawn-fest. With Gerlach being the winner. And Roggio, who's endorsed by Obama and looks to offer a new, fresh face to Congress, won't help keep the audience from dozing off.

I had a sit-down interview on Friday with Bob Roggio, Democratic candidate for the 6th District U.S. Congress seat. We chatted for about an hour about why he's running for the seat, the most important issues facing the district, and what he'd do to address those issues. (I'll be interviewing Rep. Gerlach on Monday - look for a synopsis of that interview shortly after.)

The former volunteer for John Kerry's 2004 presidential campaign and coordinator for Bob Casey's senatorial campaign gave rather dry answers to most of the questions posed. Most seemed in-line with the Democratic platform and kept to the familiar (Democratic, and now, Republican also) mantra of "change."

The retired business man and Malvern resident calls himself a fiscal conservative. It's interesting to see how fiscal conservatism, often an essential component of every Republican's platform, has often become a Democrat's selling point. (U.S. Rep Joe Sestak, for instance, calls for a pay-as-you-go government.)

The lifelong Democrat would try to solve our nation's economic woes with short-term and long-term initiatives, including middle-class tax cuts and a repeal of the Bush tax cuts for the wealthy in the short-term, with long-term solutions in the form of an end to the war in Iraq and investments in three priority areas: education, infrastructure, and alternative energy.

He wants a national health care system, and favors a 14- to 15-month timetable for troop withdrawal from Iraq (with a replacement of troops to, you guessed it, Afghanistan).

Although he's never held elected office, he has always had an interest in national and international affairs, he said, and wants to shake up Washington. His opponent, Jim Gerlach, he points out, has been mired in Washington sludge for far too long.

On a local level, when asked about infrastructure improvements to area mass transit centers such as those at the Paoli and Ardmore stations, Roggio didn't go into depth as to how he would help fix them.

While Roggio sounds like he could present change to the Washington structure, and add a fresh face to Congress, I'm not sure he's convinced enough voters. Two years ago, the 6th District had one of the most contest congressional battles in the country (see: Gerlach v. Murphy). Now, with Mr. Gerlach looking to serve his fourth term in Congress, it looks as if the DNCC has largely given up on the 6th District. That's likely a combination of two things. One, they probably figure, we've tried three times and lost, and two, Roggio is not a traditionally "strong" candidate (i.e., he's never held public office, little name recognition, etc.). And, as Mark Campbell, Gerlach's political director, recently said in a press release:

Democrat Bob Roggio again failed to make the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee's (DCCC) list of winnable races across the country, known as "Red to Blue." The 54-candidate list, which identifies even long shot campaigns where the DCCC provides fundraising and logistical support, was released yesterday.

The DCCC sees similar results to a recent poll conducted by Jim Gerlach's campaign in late August - before the conventions - showing a 29% lead on the head-to-head ballot test and Gerlach's highest favorability ratings ever. Additionally, Roggio remains unknown to 90% of voters in Pennsylvania's 6th Congressional District, with just over 50 days remaining before the election.

"The good news for Bob Roggio is his name identification has increased from 5% in May to 10% in September. The bad news for Roggio is that the increase in his name identification in that time has been from those with an unfavorable impression," said Mark Campbell, Political Director. "Seemingly, the more voters know about Roggio, the more they dislike him."

One thing is for sure, though. At any debate between Roggio and Gerlach (and there is one scheduled before the election), don't expect sparks to fly.

To see some real fireworks, check out the debates between Paul Drucker and Guy Ciarrocchi - they'll be sure to entertain. Stay tuned for more on that, 157th, race...

Races I'll be looking at

2008-09-13T15:17:00.006-04:00

While there are many, many races in southeastern Pa., for the purposes of this blog I'll primarily be focusing on the following: the 157th House race and the 6th and 7th U.S. Congressional District races. I may occasionally touch on the state's 17th District race, as well as the state's 19th senatorial district race.

I also will touch on the race for the White House.

Stay tuned for frequent updates...