Threat to Trivedi Campaign Office

from the inbox:

Yesterday evening, the Trivedi for Congress offices were briefly closed after an individual threatened over the phone to commit an act of gun violence. Local law enforcement were notified immediately, and extra security measures have been taken. 
All Trivedi for Congress and coordinated campaign offices in the Sixth District will be open today, with hundreds of volunteers expected to help get out the vote for Dr. Trivedi in tomorrow's election. 

Dr. Trivedi released this statement Monday morning: 
"I am grateful for the outstanding law enforcement officers in the Sixth District for their quick response after this threat was made and their commitment to safeguarding the election process. 

"Threatening gun violence is no joke, especially when too many innocent people have died or been wounded this year in shootings across our commonwealth. That's why I support bipartisan, commonsense background check laws to keep dangerous guns out of the hands of criminals, the mentally ill, terror suspects, and domestic abusers.

"I encourage all those who are concerned about gun violence - especially the responsible gun owners in our communities - to stand up to threats like this and come out to volunteer and to vote tomorrow."

Information pertaining to the individual responsible for the threat made against the Trivedi for Congress office has been turned over to local law enforcement in West Chester, Trooper, Wyomissing, Paoli and Royersford, as well as the Federal Bureau of Investigation. 

Dr. Trivedi is locked in a tight race for the Sixth District in what is expected to be one of the closest races around the country this year. 

2014 Candidates' Comedy Night

The 24^th Annual Candidates' Comedy Night

August 14th

Finnegan's Wake

This annual political event which benefits a local charity, Variety Philadelphia.  The venue and all staffing and services are donated.  

I took notes as people performed and as it is impossible to write as fast as people talk I missed some things.  So this is by no means a complete transcript.  I caught as much as I could.  Information in parentheses indicates the candidate's party affiliation and office sought.  Other than the two gubernatorial candidates everyone was a congressional candidate and the number indicates the district they are in.  Information in brackets are my comments.  In places it notes something that I missed; in others it is a more direct comment.  For example, I don't follow any professional sports so sports jokes are completely beyond me.  If someone told a lot of sports jokes I just noted that in brackets.   I did not quite know how to record the performance by Mary Ellen Balchunis so that is one long bracketed comment.  

It is entirely possible that I misinterpreted something, or that by missing part of a presentation the balance of it is out of context.  If that happened I apologize for it, and also for any other errors or misconceptions.  This is my best effort at recording as much as I could.

Host:  Stu Bykofsky, columnist for the Philadelphia Daily News

Co-host:  JeniceArmstrong, also a columnist for the Philadelphia Daily News

Comedy Headliner:  Joe Conklin

Stu:  Introduces Jenice Armstrong, mentions that in the first 23 years the event has raised $475,000 for Variety Philadelphia.  He had hoped the event would break $500K this year but it’s a few thousand short

Jenice Armstrong:  There will be 14 candidates doing comedy routines [and goes over event business].

Stu:  [a lot of tasteless jokes, including jokes about child abuse and incest, truly unpleasant to listen to]

Jenice:  [some political jokes]

Megan Rath (R – 1, challenging Bob Brady).  I can’t believe I shaved my legs for this.  All the politicians in the room, no one has been indicted (yet), guess that Kathleen Kane connection is working.  Traffic judges not convicted.  Ok to fix traffic tickets again.  Can you help me out, Bob?  Schools might be funded by cigarette tax.  Will teachers call recess a smoking break?  Nutter is hoping the Pope will do a loaves and fishes thing again.  This is my first foray into politics.  Don’t have a platform yet.  But when carpenters get back into convention center I’ll have them build me one.  Democratic convention here?  It will make the Wing Bowl look classy.  Being pro-choice is like immigration, both penetrate a border we thought was secure.  In the Affordable Care Act there is a provision to save money if you take your own stitches out.  Call suture self.  I used to date a doctor, now I just want to be able to afford one.  My apartment is only 600 square feet.  [small apt jokes]

Mike Fitzpatrick (R-8 incumbent).  Thank Stu fro bringing so many members of Congress together.  IN Bucks County I visit 100 businesses in 100 days.  True story – a constituent was driving north on 95, pulled over by the police.  She doesn’t have a license or owner’s registration in the car.  Tells the officer she stole the car from a guy whom she killed and is storing him in the trunk.  Cut him up into little pieces.  The policemen calls his boss who came right over.  When he asked she had her license and the registration.  The boss says the officer said you stole the car.  She says I bet he told you I was speeding, too.  Story about kidney stone – called the Pelosi stone.  You have to pass it to see what’s in it.  Joke about Rep. Pelosi getting mad at Rep. Marino.  Joke about Pelosi and botox and facelift.  [In joke she tells Pelosi she looks hot and she smiles – he grimaces like someone who has had botox or a facelift]

Bob Brady (D-1 incumbent).  I haven’t missed one of these events.  Stu went to visit a mental institution.  Asked how they decide who belongs here and who doesn’t.    [He tells a joke about Stu failing the test and staying in the institution].  A married couple is in an accident.  The husband is burned and needs a skin graft.  He is so skinny that they take skin from his wife’s behind.  He thanks his wife.  She says she gets great joy from watching his mother kiss his cheeks.  I don’t do political humor, won’t make fun of others.  [He tells a joke about two business partners who make a deal that whichever one dies first will come back and tell the other one what the afterlife is like.  One dies, comes back and tells the other he has sex, eats, and sleeps all day.  Turns out he is now a bear in Yellowstone Park.]  [Gives Stu a gift care from Capital Grill – all the candidates pitched in for it.]  Stu says we are $3K short of making $500K, asks Tom Corbett, Tom Wolf, Pat Meehan, Mike Fitzpatrick for $500 each.  Asks Nicky and Ted [not sure who these people are] and Eddie from PECO for $500 each.  Asks Alan Butkovitz for $500.  They all agree.  Much applause.  Now over $500K

Stu:  Thanks all.  Bipartisan effort.

Armond James (R-2, challenging Chaka Fattah):  [Stu says he begged to be included and now he doesn’t show up.] 

Brendan Boyle (D-13, open seat).  Hello, Finnegan’s Wake!  Applause for Stu and Jenice.  First time here.  A little excited, a little nervous.  Already lasted longer than my other first time – giving a speech I mean.  Today I saw [sports team], police shooting with blanks[?], and now Governor Corbett – 3 things with no shot.  [joke about now that he has joked about Corbett he is praying that Corbett is never Attorney General again].  Charlie Kallas joke.  Eagles broke my heart.  Four championship games but no Super Bowl.  Goes to show how great McNabb was – just ask him he’ll tell you.  I went the political route.  All three Boyles went the public service route.  I’m in the state house.  My brother is in the state house.  My dad is a SEPTA janitor – at least one of us has an honest job.  Here because I won the primary.  The most expensive in the country.  Next day get a call from Bill Clinton asking me to hang out at Chickie & Pete’s.  Congress has an approval rating of 7%.  With hard work we can get it to 8%.

Pat Meehan (R-7 incumbent).  Thanks Stu and Jenice.  Always a fun night.  Nice to be away from Washington.  Fitzpatrick took one of my Pelosi jokes.  She is one of the people who makes it a tough environment.  She discovered social media – she’s on “can’t move my face book.”  Obama sent her to China because the first one who blinks loses.  Don’t worry about impeachment.  Why not?  Three words:  President Joe Biden.  Nutter back in the news.  Trip to France on taxpayers’ dime.  Staff taking in on the chin.  They thought he asked for three days and nights at the Paris Hilton.  What he wanted was three nights with Paris Hilton.  The DNC is here to see if the convention should be held in Philadelphia.  We have a good shot.  Philly can rig elections.  Philly GOP endorsed the concept – a campaign they might be able to win.  Monied donors, debauchery, Scotch, to Bob Brady that’s just another Tuesday night.  Bill Clinton is on board [lists the names of local gentleman’s clubs].  Chuckie Schumer is pushing Brooklyn.  We need our own narcissistic [missed this word] – good thing we have Ed Rendell.  Called my friend Chris Christie – have the DNC here just as you are exploring you own bid.  Christie non-plussed – we’ll close that bridge when we come to it.  Going to put three people on the spot – Stu, Brady & Fitpatrick.  I’m going to take the ice water challenge and nominate you to do the same and raise $100 for ALS. 

Stu:  I’ll do it right now.  Let’s get a pitcher of ice water.

Chaka Fattah (D-2 incumbent):  [doesn’t show up.  Jenice wonders if he’s out coaching his son]

Stu:  [Introducs Doug Zeiders, head of Variety]

Doug Zeiders:  Variety offers day and overnight camp for children with disabilities, all ages, all disabilities.  Parents say Variety camp is the only place, outside of him, that kids are loved and accepted.

Stu:  I’ve been on the board of Variety for over 20 years.  We aren’t paid.  We actually have to pay to be on the board.  Pay for parking, meals, etc for meetings. 

Joe Conklin [jokes about Chris Christie and extra crispy and the ice water challenge.]  Now that the DNC is gone we can be ourselves again.  Does impression of Mayor Nutter saying Fishtown was originally a lesbian penal colony.  Does Rendell impression of Rendell saying he likes thin blondes and got the phone numbers of three women in DNC group.  Pope coming to Philly.  The Archdiocese won’t confirm --  but will move him from parish to parish.  Sending buses of priests to Little League game.  Corbett promised money to the Philly schools but gave it to Chaka Fattah, Jr. to hold.  If anybody needs weed Jim Kenney is out on 3^rd St.  [many sports jokes].

Stu:  [Does 50/50 drawing.  Jenice wins, donates money back to Variety.  Auction of baseball signed by Mike Schmidt.  Auctions jersey signed by Donovan McNabb.  Gentleman from Emerald Capital wins both.  Stu thanks everyone who donated items or services.]

Kevin Strouse (D-8 challenging Mike Fitzpatrick):  Thanks for warming up the crowd.  Tradition to make the first joke about Stu, but also told not to make fun of the elderly.  I joined the Army and fought the Taliban, now ready for the real fight – Congress.  When joined and in basic training only one in my unit not from the South, didn’t know who Kenny Chesney was.  I had the most boring contraband.  The others had the most debauched porn.  I had a World War II history book.  Hard to separate the Taliban from the goats – they never forget their first love.  After the military I went to work for the NSA.  I can’t tell you how much fun I had.  Seriously, I can’t tell you.  [Dick Cheney joke]

Ryan Costello (R-6, open seat):  Stu took clean jokes.  Brendan said all the jokes I couldn’t say.  On vacation getting John Boehner on – tan.  Problem with political jokes is they often get elected.  [does Johnny Carson Karnack jokes]  What are Rocky and The Sting?  Two jokes that describe Kathleen Kane’s first year in office.  Ted Cruz?  Person Manan Trivedi most wants to see fundraise for me.  Ryan Costello and Ed Rendell?  The last two people to hit on my wife.  Schuylkill Expressway?  What is the only thing slower than Obamacare website. 

Tom Corbett (R-Governor):  I feel sorry for you having to listen to all this.  Politicians aren’t funny.  Tom Wolf and I did this last night in Pittsburgh.  Politicians are not funny.  Except Daylin Leach – fact finding trip to Colorado to investigate pot.    Sunday night thinking about jokes.  People want to know what you do as governor.  At the grocery store they ask what are you doing?  Shopping.  At restaurants, what are you doing?  Eating.  What do I do that’s different than what other people do?  1) I was born in Philadelphia.  I’m the first governor born in Philadelphia since the Revolutionary War – hasn’t gotten me one vote.  2) In was invited to the White House dinner for Angela Merkel.  The President was sitting behind me.  Tim Geithner was the host at my table.  Nancy Pelosi was there.  A woman asks me what I’m doing in Philadelphia to help re-elect Obama.  I say I’m the Republican governor.  She says really, what are you doing to help the President.  3) Bass Masters.  Fish that are caught are put back in.  People cheering for me are from New Jersey.  Tom Wolf and I have a lot in common.  Drive jeeps.  I’m tired of seeing the jeep.  In commercials Tom Wolf is driving a jeep – not looking where he is going.  Tom Wolf must be feeling the pressure.  He actually let the lieutenant governor out.

Mary Ellen Balchunis (D-7, challenging Pat Meehan).  [I honestly don’t know how to really describe this.  Balchunis did not do a comedy routine.  She and two other women did a song and dance routine, to the tune of “I Will Survive.”  The lyrics had something to do with pay equity and social media.  She and the other two women did their performance on the floor instead of the stage.  I wonder if she had decided this in advance because it took a lot of time to get the microphones set up.  Since they were on ground level it was difficult to see.  It was also painful to watch.  To be fair some people might have thought it was innovative and refreshing.  I’m simply not one of them.]

Manan Trivedi (D-6, open seat).  Want to thank Mary Ellen.  No matter what I do it can’t be worse than that.  It must be tough for Tom Corbett to come into Philadelphia, with protests, etc.  If it gets to be too much just shut your eyes.  Right now Wolf is ahead by 20, but he will do more commercials; people will meet him.  Corbett could lose by a lot more.  Tom Wolf drove his jeep.  I know it was his because the license plate is from Delaware.  I have a lot in common with Wolf.  He has a PhD; I’m a doctor.  We both have two daughters and grew up in a small town.  But if he grows a beard he’s everyone’s uncle and if I grow a beard I’m on the terrorist watch list.  I won’t make many ethnic jokes.  In case the gaming commission is here, I’m a 7-11 Indian not a casino Indian.  Let’s skip the debates and just have seven spelling bees.  The DNC people were just here.  Bob Brady wore his best track suit.

Stu does the ice water challenge and says that the first time he’s had ice without Jack Daniels.

Tom Wolf (D- Governor, challenging Tom Corbett).  I came from a small town in York County.  It is so small it only has one traffic light.  I was concerned that I would have trouble driving in Philadelphia but no one here knows how to drive either.  I am known as being a little wooden.  I’m sorry Bob Casey isn’t here.  Next to him I look exciting.  Fundraising is hard.  But it is harder to take $10 million out of the family rainy day fund.  Keeps me honest not beholden.  But if anyone comes up with a cure for baldness he can have anything he wants.  I thought Tom Corbett and I were running for the most powerful office in the state, but according to his commercials I learned the Secretary of Revenue is.  If elected I will be the first bearded governor in [missed this number] years.  People say politicians are jokers but tonight proves that is not true.

Dee Adcock (R-13, open seat).  I’m the guy everyone was looking for.  Megan Rath, she’s young, beautiful, and witty.  Comedy night is the perfect place for me.  When I told my wife I was running she said very funny.  I’ve not held any political positions.  After college I grew a small swimming pool store into a large distributorship.  I think about water too much.  My daughter’s name is Brooke; my wife is Sandy.  Let’s dive right in.  I ran in 2010.  People were looking for someone who was not a career politician.  Allyson Schwartz lost the primary for governor.  She put all she’s learned into her new job as a Wal-Mart greeter.  If elected I will donate my salary to charity.  I’m at a disadvantage in the city because of party registration.  I know my party backs me because I rode up in the elevator with all of them.  Just celebrated my 27^th anniversary.  I’ve been married longer than my opponent’s been alive.  When asked about seniors Brendan Boyle said “I hated them in high school because they shoved me in the lockers.”  When Obama says slice he means golf.  When Michelle says slice she means meat in school lunches.

With that the evening ended.  

The Doctor is In: Trivedi in the 6th

from the inbox:

Launching a new campaign for the now open 6^th congressional seat in Pennsylvania, Manan Trivedi spoke of his commitment and career to public service. As an a Iraq War veteran, primary care physician and father, Trivedi presented an agenda designed to create economic opportunity in Pennsylvania.

 “This election is an opportunity for the people of the 6th District to say no to political gridlock, and yes to ideas that strengthen and grow the middle-class. As a father, doctor in the community and Iraq War veteran, I'm tired of politicians who help themselves instead of the people they're paid to represent. As Congressman, I'll only answer to Pennsylvanians, not political insiders -- and work with local businesses to create jobs; provide strong support for public education so we prepare students to compete in a global economy; make sure we keep our commitment to our veterans and protect Medicare and Social Security for senior citizens.”

Trivedi has run for this office twice before against then incumbent Jim Gerlach.  This year, however, Gerlach is not running; it is an open seat.  Trivedi's usual campaign site is trivediforcongress.com but it does not appear to be up and running yet.

I've written a number of posts on Trivedi over the years, including some event posts.  You can find a list of the posts by clicking on Trivedi's name on the right hand sidebar post label, or follow this link:

http://aboveavgjane.blogspot.com/search/label/Manan%20Trivedi

Trivedi Joins PAC

Dr. Manan Trivedi, two time candidate for Pennsylvania's 6th congressional district, has joined the board of a new political action committee, Americans for the Protection of Children.  He sent out the following email last week (fundraising links removed):

Yesterday Congress failed our children. The Senate had the opportunity to pass simple legislation to stop gun violence -- background checks -- and they could not muster the political courage to act. Why? When 90% of Americans support background checks, why would Congress fail to act?

The answer is simple: fear of the NRA and their Washington lobbyists.

That is why my friends and I, many of whom are parents of young children, are launching a new organization to fight back.

Because the only way we will ever get common sense gun safety laws is when we beat the politicians that do the NRA's bidding.
After the election in November I took a step back from politics. I was so thankful for your support in the campaign and proud of what we did together, but I needed some time to focus on my family and work as a physician. I can't sit quietly any longer.

Recently I discovered that, as a doctor, I am on the NRA's "enemies list." That's right. The NRA keeps a list of enemies that includes pediatricians, trauma surgeons, nurses, and the American Medical Association. It's actually a group of people I am proud to be associated with.

And united we can have a major impact.

As a battalion surgeon, I have seen firsthand what military weapons do to the human body.As a parent, I want to make sure that weapons that belong on the battlefield are kept out of our schools, our malls, our movie theaters, our places of worship, and off our streets.

We need to stop them and we need to start today.

Manan Trivedi

Remembrance: Dr. Manan Trivedi

from the inbox, from Dr. Manan Trivedi, Democratic candidate for the 6th congressional district:

BIRDSBORO, Pa – The following is a statement from Iraq War veteran and candidate for Pennsylvania’s 6th congressional district, Manan Trivedi on remembering the victims of the attacks of 9/11:

“With each year that passes, the impact of the attacks of September 11, 2001 remains momentous. On that day, as a Naval officer I knew my life was about to change in ways that would forever impress upon me the resolve and unity of the American people.

“And eleven years later, because of the sheer determination and focus of the men and women who serve our nation so bravely, we can say to the world that those behind these horrific attacks have been eliminated and the remaining threads of Al Qaeda are frayed.

“To the families who lost loved ones on that day in New York, The Pentagon and in Shanksville, Pa, words of comfort are never enough but the actions of friends, family and those who risked the ultimate sacrifice in order to bring about justice for our nation functions as a reminder as to what is truly exceptional about being an American.”

Stu Bykofsky Candidates' Comedy Night, 2012

The22nd  annual Stu Bykofsky Candidates’ Comedy Night, a benefit for Variety, the children’s charity, was held this evening at Finnegan’s Wake.   Since this is primarily a political blog I didn’t take notes on the speakers who aren’t running for office.  As always, this is not intended to be an exact transcript, just rough notes I took at the event.  It would be impossible to capture every joke, especially the longer, more involved story jokes, but I made an effort to provide some idea of each candidate's routine.  Text implies a direct joke, notes in brackets are condensations or gists.  Actions or extraneous activities are in italics, as are candidates' names.  Read your local newspapers for more exact accounts of the event.

Tom Smith, Republican candidate for Senate

[he had slides, with his face imposed on or added to stock or iconic photos] 

I am new to politics and most people in Philadelphia aren’t familiar with me.  My father died when I was 20 and I had to look after the family so I couldn’t go to college but I sent my daughters.  [shows a slide of what he would have looked like if he had gone – his face superimposed on someone wearing a college tshirt holding a beer mug].  

 My wife is with me, as you can see I left her get a new dress for the event [American Gothic painting with Mr. and Mrs. Smith’s photos in it].   

I worked in a coal mine [Smith’s face on the front of Thomas the Tank Engine, pulling a load of coal].   

I had big dreams [his face added to a picture of the Beverly Hillbillies].  My wife and I adopted four children so a family could stay together.   

People say I am a Tea Party candidate but there are a lot of things about me you don’t know [his face added to an Occupy Pittsburgh group photo].

Congressman Bob Brady, Democrat, 1^st district

Incumbents do comedy every day, make fools of ourselves every day.  This is for the kids. 

[tells a joke about an attorney going to a brothel].   

[Tells a pee and poop joke at Bykofsky’s expense]. 

Sen. Bob Casey, Democrat

[Makes fun of himself for being dull, cites a NYT article that says he shows excitement with extra eyebrow activity]

Congresswoman Allyson Schwartz, Democrat, 13^th district, sent a surrogate, Neil Deegan. 

Top 10 reasons Allyson can’t be here tonight:

Still at PennDOT waiting for her voter id card

Getting new copy of the congressional ladies’ room key made for Kathy Boockvar

Prepping Mayfair office to hand over to Bob Brady

Painting bike lane in front of Stu’s house

Getting mani pedi with Debbie Wasserman Schultz and Nancy Pelosi

Measuring drapes for Corbett’s office

Looking at Pat Toomey’s office

Needed a haircut for the DNC.

Kathleen Kane, Democratic candidate for Attorney General

[joke about thinking Finnegan’s Wake was an actual funeral wake]

[joke about doctors]

In Scranton the obituaries are the Irish social pages.  People clip them out and put then on the refrigerator.   They often have headlines, like “101 Year Old Woman Dies Unexpectedly.” 

I took my son to an Eagles game.  We saw empty seats up front and moved up to them.  They were next to an older man.  He told us he and his wife had season tickets for years but she died a few days ago.  I asked if a family member didn’t want to come with him.  “Oh, no,” he said, “they’re at the funeral.”

George Badey, Democratic candidate for 7^th congressional district

[told “the neighborhood I grew up in was so tough” jokes – it is now in Brady’s district] 

I went to high school in South Philly.  Pat Meehan went to the Chestnut Academy.

Chris Christie is in the hospital.  He has that flesh eating bacteria.  He only has 13 years to live.

Fidel Castro’s successor will be his idiot son, Fidel W. Castro.

Bill Clinton and the Pope died but there was a mix up and Clinton went up and the Pope went down.  When the mix up was fixed and the Pope was going up and Clinton down they passed and the Pope told Clinton he was looking forward to meeting the Blessed Virgin.  Clinton said “You just missed her.”

David Freed, Republican candidate for Attorney General

Thanks to Kathleen Kane for picking up the tab.

I went to college with Cecily Tynan.

Fan of Philly sports teams [joke about the 1996 Phillies being bad team].

People say I am too close to Gov. Corbett – he wrote my jokes.  [fakes a phone call from Corbett].  “Hello, Governor?  Yes, Risa Vetri Ferman’s here – she’s sitting right next to me.  No, she still won’t run for Attorney General.

[joke about Ed Rendell telling people the statue of Billy Penn is of him]

[calls Daily News columnist John Baer a gossip columnist]

Kathy Boockvar, Democratic candidate for 8^th congressional district

I want to show that I can be funny on purpose and not just by accident.

I wanted to find a job more popular than being in congress but the TSA didn’t have any opening and Elliott Spitzer already has a co-host.  

Things more popular than congress right now:

Lawyers

Chick Fil A’s new branch at the Sea of Gaililee

Paris Hilton

Porn

The IRS

Polygamy

The idea of being abducted by aliens

The oil industry

Bank of America

BP Oil during the Gulf oil spill

John Featherman, Republican candidate for 1^st congressional district

[several jokes about being Jewish and being married to an Asian woman].  Two Chinese people had a white baby but everyone knows two Wongs don’t make a white. 

A union friend wanted to find a whorehouse where the prostitutes got to keep more of the money than the madam.  They finally found one and the union friend asked for a pretty young blonde but the proprietor said he had to take 62 year old Ethel, because of seniority rules. 

Intermission with comedian Joe Conklin who told some good jokes and did impressions of political figures.  He also gave a shout out to the girls from Club Risque and said they were the only ones there with bigger [breasts] than Bob Brady.

Congressman Pat Meehan, Republican, 7^th district

Stu thought the Variety Club was a dating service.

My opponent George Badey is a mummer.  He wants to go to Washington, wear satin pants, a feather boa and lipstick.  J. Edgar Hoover already did that.

Anthony Wiener got in trouble for sexting.  He was trying to decide whether or not to resign.  He was in, he was out, he was in, he was out, now he’s holding his own.  Bill Clinton oversaw Wiener’s wedding.   

When the scandal broke he called Clinton to apologize – for what, copyright infringement?

Three political figures were driving through Kansas and ended up in Oz.  [missed the name, possibly George W. Bush?] went looking for a heart, Joe Biden for a brain, and Bill Clinton said “Where’s Dorothy?”

There is an auction for a restaurant gift card which Emerald Capital bids more than the card is worth, then ups that bid when Stu includes a gift basket.

Dr. Manan Trivedi, Democratic candidate in 6^th district

When I ran in 2010 I spoke at this event and told a lot of jokes about being an Indian-American.  I won’t do that this year.  [fakes a telephone call and answers in stereotypic Indian accent] “Dell Technical Support.  This is … Mike …. In …. Kansas City.”  

My wife is from a very traditional family.  When they heard I wouldn’t be a full-time doctor while I am running for office they asked for three chickens back. 

Jim Gerlach and Paul Ryan work out together – they practice their Atlas Shrugged poses.

[spelling bee joke]

Unlike Todd Akin, I know when my time is up.

Special guest, comedian Steve Young tells jokes

Congressman Jim Gerlach, Republican, 6^th district, sent surrogate Kori Walter, district director.

Mitt Romney bet me $10,000 that I wouldn’t do this. 

[He told several jokes that fell flat and asked if the audience was drinking enough.  As he left the stage Stu told him you never blame the audience if your jokes don’t get a laugh, always use self-deprecating humor.]

Congressman Mike Fitzpatrick, Republican, 8^th district

[Fitzpatrick was taking two of his daughters to college this weekend and so wasn’t sure he would be able to attend; a surrogate, Andre [did not catch last name], was there just in case, but Fitzpatrick told his own jokes]

One night in Washington a robber held me up and said “give me all your money.”  I told him I was a congressman and he said  “In that case give me all my money.”

Is Mitt Romney here tonight?  Coming in I thought I saw a car with a dog carrier on top.”

[discusses his Irish heritage, family from county next to Limerick.  Says Limerick known for a particular kind of poem.  Tells three.  One about Paul Ryan has a line “grandma just must go.”  One about Romney being robotic but “I saw him cry when he sold his 3^rd yacht.”  The last one is about Obama and says he will be a judge on American Idol next year.]

Jim Foster, Independent candidate in 2^nd district

[Mostly talks about himself, jokes about Chaka Fattah, and says West Mt. Airy is Stepford on the Wissahickon]

Robert Mansfield, Republican candidate for 2^nd district, sends surrogate Ned Green.

[says he met Mansfield in the 1990’s on another political campaign, Mansfield was homeless then].  Says Mansfield isn’t there because he has a lot of injuries from being in Iraq and is seeing a brain specialist today.

Personal notes:  Smith, Casey, Schwartz / Deegan, Kane, Trivedi, and Boockvar did well.   I was surprised by the Republican candidates telling Romney / Paul jokes.  That seems unusual.

There were a lot of jokes / comments at Congressman Chaka Fattah's expense.  That is because two years ago he was a presenter and gave an awful, mean-spirited rant.  He wasn't there tonight.  This would have been an opportunity for him to do something self-deprecating and make a comeback but he didn't.  (Hint:  There's always the Star Trek, evil twin/ goatee trick that Community has picked up on.)

It was nice to see two women on the stage.  Maybe one of these years Congresswoman Schwartz will join us in person?  Kathleen Kane's routine had a homespun, Lake Woebegone feel to it.  Boockvar was a little edgier.

The girls from Club Risque paraded from one side of the room to the other about three times, which is the standard from the other years I've attended, but this year they were wearing clunky shoes and the sound was disruptive. 

Badey, Boockvar, and Trivedi on the Ryan Budget

This afternoon three Democratic congressional candidates held a joint press conference outside the Philadelphia Senior Center.  The topic was the Paul Ryan budget.  The candidates were George Badey, 7^th district, Kathryn Boockvar, 8^th district, and Dr. Manan Trivedi, 6^th district.  All of the campaigns released part or all of the candidate’s prepared remarks.  In addition, for those who provided only a portion of the remarks, I have supplemented with my notes on what was said.  The event was held on the sidewalk and passing traffic sometimes drowned out their comments.  As always, my notes are not intended as an exact transcript.  I apologize in advance for any errors or misconceptions and encourage interested voters to research the candidates for themselves.

Badey’s campaign provided the full text of his prepared remarks:

Thank you all for being here today.

Kathy and Manan – we share a common mission: fighting for good paying jobs and working with the middle class to rebuild the security they had which has been lost.

We’re here today because Medicare’s future is under attack.

Mitt Romney’s decision to pick Congressman Paul Ryan as his Vice Presidential candidate makes clear that he has his sights firmly set on privatizing Medicare next year – replacing the security of Medicare with a voucher that comes with no guarantee of coverage.

Ending Medicare as we know it is now the central plank of the Romney-Ryan ticket and will be the defining issue of the 2012 elections.

If Paul Ryan’s bill is signed into law by a President Romney, seniors would pay $6,400 more a year for their health care, and nearly four million seniors would be forced to pay an additional $2.2 billion for prescription drugs next year alone.

Their plan for goes furthest for those not yet at retirement. It eliminates guaranteed benefits for anyone aged 54 or younger.  As we approach 65, we rely on the security that comes with knowing you will have medical coverage in your retirement. In this economy, we need a Congress focused on building job security, not creating even more insecurity for the middle class by privatizing Medicare.

But privatizing Medicare is just what my opponent, Congressman Meehan, voted for - despite his promise in 2010 to vote against the Ryan agenda.

Mitt Romney has made his decision; now Congressman Meehan’s votes for the Ryan plan to privatize Medicare are all the more real, serious, and dangerous. This is not a hollow vote they took, but a concerted effort to end Medicare as we know it.

We must not let this happen – but we cannot stop it if we have a Congress that is also set on this reckless plan. This is a crystal clear difference between me and Congressman Meehan. He voted twice to end Medicare as we know it and force seniors to pay $6,400 more a year in premiums in order to protect subsidies for oil companies.

I'm running to protect seniors and middle class Pennsylvania families from this reckless agenda.

I look forward to letting voters choose which makes more sense.

Kathryn Boockvar spoke next.  She said this election is about a stark difference between two ideas.  Paul Ryan and Congressman Mike Fitzpatrick are working hand in hand against the interests of the middle class and families.  Even Newt Gingrich describes the Ryan budget as right wing social engineering.

Her campaign included a portion of her remarks in a pressrelease:

“Congressman Fitzpatrick twice voted for the Ryan budget, which hands Medicare over to private insurance companies and raises health care costs for seniors by over $6,000 dollars every year, while at the same time, extends tax cuts for billionaires and companies that outsource Pennsylvanian jobs overseas,” said Boockvar.  “We need representatives in Congress that will fight against the Ryan/Fitzpatrick Budget and, instead, for seniors and middle class families.”

Dr Manan Trivedi spoke last of the three.  He said it’s the middle class that makes America go and makes America strong.  Paul Ryan’s budget plan would cripple the middle class.  As a primary care doctor most of my patients are middle class.  Ryan would cut taxes on millionaires and billionaires.  Ryan and Congressman Jim Gerlach might be workout buddies but they are not working for us.  Their ideas would turn the American dream into the American nightmare.  My father came to America and worked in the backrooms of hotels and restaurants, washing dishes and cleaning toilets, because he wasn’t allowed to work out front.  The GOP has not passed a single piece of legislation to create American jobs.

His campaign included a portion of his remarks in a press release:

“As a primary care physician, I know it’s my middle-class patients who significantly rely upon Medicare and under the Romney-Ryan plan, it would be devastated,” said Trivedi. “And Rep. Paul Ryan has no better ally for his proposal to crush our economy in Pennsylvania than Jim Gerlach. They may be workout buddies in the gym but they aren’t working out for our middle-class. The American Dream starts with an American job and Paul Ryan, Jim Gerlach or the GOP leaders in Congress have done nothing to create an environment for improving employment.”

Three Polls

Information on three polls crossed my screen the past few days.

from PADems:

In case you missed it, today Quinnipiac University released a new poll of Pennsylvania voters that placed President Obama six points up over Mitt Romney in the Commonwealth. Only 35 percent of Pennsylvanians viewed Romney favorably, while 42 percent of Pennsylvanians have an unfavorable view of Romney. Mitt Romney's top Pennsylvania endorser, Tom Corbett, fares even worse. Only 36 percent of Pennsylvanians approve of Tom Corbett's job performance while 47 percent disapprove, making Tom Corbett one of America's least popular governors. With numbers like that, it's no wonder that even Mitt Romney doesn't think he can win here: http://livewire.talkingpointsmemo.com/entries/gop-state-chair-romney-doesnt-think-he-can 

PoliticsPA has dueling polling memos in the 6th Congressional district.  Incumbent Rep. Gerlach's poll shows he has good name recognition.  Challenger Dr. Manan Trivedi's polling memo shows that if people are read a biographical statement about him they like him.  Redistricting has changed the constituency of the 6th and that could affect the election outcome.  Read more.

The 7th congressional district has changed shape dramatically.  Democrat George Badey is challenging incumbent Rep. Pat Meehan.  As might be expected, Meehan has a significant lead among potential voters.  But when they are told some of his positions, especially those on Medicare and women's health issues.  Read more and see the polling memo on PoliticsPA.

Stamp Out Hunger

Dr. Manan Trivedi, candidate in the 6th congressional district, sends out this message:

This past week, your local letter carrier probably dropped off a grocery bag or maybe placed a postcard in your mailbox like they did at our house.

Tomorrow, May 12 is the national Stamp Out Hunger food drive and thanks to your letter carrier, they are making it easy for you to participate.

Just take the bag they provided or use your own. Place non-perishable food items in the bag and set it next to your mailbox. A letter carrier will pick it up on Saturday and deliver it to a local food bank or pantry.

And after you have placed your bag at your mailbox, let us know about it.

If you are on Twitter, simply use the following hashtag and we will ReTweet your message:    #StampedOutHungerWithTfC

Or come to our Facebook page and post a comment: facebook.com/TrivediforCongress

In each of our communities we know there are those in need. You may even know someone personally. If we all just make a small donation like a can of soup, box of cereal or a bag of rice, it will go a long way in combating hunger locally.

I know I sign-off with this often and it is just as important now - - Thank you for all you are doing to help build a better community.

VoteVets Endorses Manan Trivedi

from the inbox:

VoteVets.org PAC, a national organization of veterans, representing over 105,000 members is endorsing Manan Trivedi, in his campaign for Congress, today.  Trivedi, an Iraq War Veteran, is running in the Pennsylvania Congressional district now represented by Jim Gerlach.

"Manan is a really remarkable man, with a great story and incredible experience," said Jon Soltz, Iraq War Veteran, and Chairman of VoteVets.org. "Manan’s experience in public policy, community service, and experience in war make him just the kind of person we need in Congress.  I know that his non-stop dedication to the people of his district will make him an exemplary Congressman, as well."

From 2001 to 2003, Trivedi served as the battalion surgeon for the 1st Battalion, 5th Regiment Marine Corps Infantry Battalion. His battalion was among the first U.S. ground forces to enter Iraq. Manan served on the front lines of battle, commanding a medical team that cared for over 1,200 of our troops and hundreds of Iraqi civilians. For his service, he earned the Combat Action Ribbon, the Navy Commendation Medal, and his unit was awarded the Presidential Unit Citation.

But that’s not where his dedication to service started.  It actually began at a very early age. As a young boy, Trivedi won a national contest for launching a healthy eating initiative. In college, he received a community service award for his work with HIV/AIDS patients. As a physician, he has treated the poor and uninsured in the inner city.

After his service in Iraq, Trivedi received a Master’s degree in health policy. He drew on his experience with combat medicine to become one of the early researchers to investigate the unique mental health issues affecting our troops returning from Iraq and Afghanistan. He went on to serve as health policy advisor to the Navy Surgeon General and was an assistant professor of medicine at the Uniformed Services University of Health Sciences.

Founded in 2006, the mission of VoteVets.org Political Action Committee is to elect Veterans to public office, with a focus on Iraq and Afghanistan veterans, and hold public officials accountable for their words and actions that impact America's 21st century troops and veterans. Though VoteVets.org PAC is non-partisan, candidates it backs must support VoteVets.org's core mission and beliefs.

PA Red to Blue Candidates

The Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee has announced a round of "red to blue" campaigns.  Kathryn Boockvar, running against Mike Fitzpatrick (PA-08), and Dr. Manan Trivedi, running against Jim Gerlach (PA-06) are on the list.  "Red to blue" candidates are offered assistance with fundraising, communications, strategic planning, and grassroots support.

Trivedi and Veterans

A note in the inbox from Dr. Manan Trivedi, candidate for the 6th congressional district:

If you have been paying attention to Pennsylvania's congressional redistricting debacle, then I feel as though I should offer an apology. Yes, I know I'm not a part of this dysfunctional government, but with Republicans ramming through their gerrymandered map without any public hearings, they’re turning Pennsylvania into an embarrassment—and for that I think we're all a little sorry. It's shameful, but I ask that you hold steady.
 

There is still good news these days. The Iraq War has officially ended and we have brave men and women in the armed forces returning home for the holidays to be with their families. Politicians in Washington and Harrisburg may act like spoiled children sometimes, but it is up to us to make sure our veterans never lose faith in why they serve. If you see somone in fatigues over the holidays, take a moment to thank them for their service, and let them know that we stand with them as a country.

This redistricting mess will never make me waiver in my commitment to the 6th district and I hope you will stand by me in staying just as strong to serve our community. If the politicians can’t do their jobs with fairness, then it's up to us.

Thanks for all you do every day to build a better Pennsylvania and a better nation.

Manan

Also remember that although our troops are coming home from Iraq, we still have folks in Afghanistan, Kuwait and any number of other places.  Keep sending those care packages, letters, etc.  

Trivedi Launches Redesigned Website

Dr. Manan Trivedi, who is taking a second run at the 6th congressional district, has relaunched his campaign website.  Take a look at www.trivediforcongress.com.  The pictures and graphics are really impressive.  Kudos to whoever did the creative work.  Interesting logo also.  It has many of the standard features of a campaign logo but I haven't seen them put together in quite that way before.  Nice.

Trivedi and Gerlach in Congressional Rematch

Dr. Manan Trivedi who ran against incumbent Jim Gerlach for the 6th congressional district in 2010 announced today that he will run again in 2012. I posted a number of blog entries on Trivedi during the 2010 campaign (see the full list here).

Some of the more significant are:

10/19/2010 debate
10/12/2010 debate
mentions of Trivedi in a book on the war
interview with Trivedi

Selected Campaign Thank Yous

As campaigns have wound down candidates, both those who met success at the ballot box, and those who did not, are sending out thanks you emails to supporters. Here is a selection of messages that I received or were sent to me:

Patrick Murphy (congressman, 8th district)

From the bottom my heart thank you all so much.

It has been quite a fight and I'd like to say a special thank you to all the volunteers and to everyone who supported me throughout the years.

You put your hopes and hearts in my hands -and for that I will be more grateful then I can ever express or you will ever realize.

The fight to change the direction of our country will be long and hard. And whether as a Captain in the United States Army, a Prosecutor, an elected official, a husband or a father, I will never back down on my pledge to fight for the greatness that I believe this country can achieve. I hope no matter what happens, I’ll still make you proud.

I am honored to continue this fight with all of you in this community, which we all love so much.

My faith in America, and in all of you, will never fade.

Joe Sestak (congressman, 7th district, candidate for senate)

As I write this, I know I will never be able to express the level of admiration I have for every one of you who supported me -- and our principles -- so selflessly over this (and, for so many, other) campaign(s).

I am in awe of your caring and desire for a better future. Anyone who doesn't have faith in that, did not have the wonderful opportunity to know you.

Please accept my deepest respect, the knowledge that I am so very indebted to you, and the commitment to always return your belief in me by striving to better what our youth will inherit -- as every generation in America has done.

Thank you, for always!

Dr. Manan Trivedi (candidate, 6th congressional district)

Please forgive me for taking a day to send this to you. Yesterday I decided to do something I have wanted to do for the last 6 months: Spend the entire day with my family. It really brings everything into perspective. And it is my family I want to thank first. To my amazing wife, Surekha and my absolutely adorable daughter Sonia; you have been so supportive and understanding throughout this entire campaign. I love you both.

When we began this campaign fourteen months ago, it was hard to find any of the press, pundits or Washington insiders who thought that a brown kid from Berks County with a funny sounding name and no money in the political coffers would make it very far. Throughout the race, we were met with many obstacles, but we didn't let them get us down. We never gave up because you and only you were there at each and every step of the way. You helped us overcome so much and I will be forever grateful to you for that.

So while the end results of this election were not what we had hoped for, our work is not over. There is certainly a lot that needs to be changed in Washington and we cannot let one election stand in our way.

The folks in Congress still need to regain the public's trust, so while there are so many people struggling in this economy, they should lead by example and take a pay cut when the new session begins.

Congress must put forth every effort to get our nation back to work and they need to do it without loading up legislation with unnecessary pork spending. As a physician, I know that our health care system is imperfect and that we must do everything possible to ensure that every American has accessible and affordable coverage.

And as a battalion surgeon during the Iraq War, I will never stop fighting for veterans and their families. They make our nation stronger each day and we must honor them for their service.

I promise to never give up the pursuit to change how Washington works and I hope you will too. Do it for whatever reason motivates you. For me it is the story of my father coming to this country in the 1960's and working his way through school in the back of hotel kitchens of the segregated South. He did because he believed in an American dream that you would be rewarded for your hard work and merits, not on the color of your skin, your family's last name or the wealth that may come from it. I will never forget my father's pursuit and I will certainly never allow his vision to die.

It is my father's story and the stories I have heard from so many of you in the diners, the coffee shops, the train stations and your homes that made me realize one truly significant thing during this campaign: We all share a common thread. From the Steelworker to the social worker - from the small business owner with a new start-up to the small child starting school - whether you're white, black, brown or shades in between - or if your name is as familiar as Smith or even if it sounds as unusual as Trivedi, America is about fairness and it is up to only us to do everything in our power to ensure its continued existence.

I thank you again for everything you have done to support this endeavor and I look forward to carrying on our fight for fairness.

Bryan Lentz (161st state house, candidate for 7th congressional district)

I want to express my sincerest appreciation for all of your support of the campaign. Your financial contributions, your donated time, and your words of encouragement helped us become one of the most competitive races in the country. While Tuesday’s results were not what we had worked for there are still reasons to be hopeful as we move forward.

In the last year we created one of the most efficient and effective operations in the history of the 7th District and left a legacy of coordinated Democratic activism in Delaware, Montgomery, and Chester counties. In the three days leading up to the election our campaign went to over 120,000 households to promote the entire Democratic ticket but despite these historic efforts we were unable to hold these seats in the toxic electoral climate.

I want to publicly thank my dedicated and motivated staff for their incredible commitment to this campaign and its ideals. I want to thank my family for their support and sacrifices during this last year and I also want to thank Pat Meehan for a spirited campaign. I wish Pat great success in his new role as our Congressman.

Allyson Schwartz (congresswoman, 13st district, re-elected)

n one of the toughest electoral climates in decades, you helped me win a resounding victory on Tuesday, and I want to say thank you. My district is just 52 percent Democratic and 12 percent Independent, but yet on Tuesday, Democrats, Independents and Republicans joined together to give me a strong 12 point victory.

We knew we were up against a very difficult political environment, and against an aggressive candidate who poured over $500,000 of his own dollars into the race.

But, we ran a smart, door to door campaign and pulled off a powerful win, winning both Northeast Philadelphia and Montgomery County.

Given my swing district, it took our collective efforts over the last several months to touch as many voters as possible through as many avenues as we could.

Tuesday night we celebrated a 12 point victory thanks to you, and the efforts of the countless volunteers and supporters. You helped us to get out the vote and ensured that we had the resources necessary to run the biggest, strongest campaign since I was first ran for Congress in 2004. I could not have done it without you.

Now, I return to Washington to continue fighting for you, just as you have fought for me – to grow private sector jobs, protect health reform, reduce our deficit, and make sure that economic recovery and future economic opportunities reach all of our families.

In the new Congress, I will work with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle – as I always have – to meet the challenges we face as a nation. But, do know that I will stand up and speak out when I need to promote our core values.

I hope that you will stay involved. Keep in touch with my political activities and my work in Congress on my website and through Facebook.

Once again, and from the bottom of my heart, thank you!

Ruth Damsker (candidate, 12th state senate)

Over the past several months, we have waged a determined campaign to change the way Harrisburg does business. Given the national political climate, it was particularly challenging. However, we succeeded in putting issues on the agenda and building toward further success in the future. I am grateful to you for sharing your time, talent, and treasury in support of my campaign.

When I spoke with Senator Greenleaf on Tuesday night, I wished him well and made it known that I will continue to work for the continued improvement of our Commonwealth.

Please stay in touch with me and remain engaged in the political process. Your involvement will make the difference in the future as we continue the effort to improve our State.

Rick Taylor (incumbent, 151st state house district)

I first ran for office to make sure that our most vulnerable have a voice. Corporations and special interest groups have plenty of lobbyists, and I have held myself to a simple principle: give a voice to the little guy and let us hear the every day citizen.

At the end of this long campaign, I am saddened that I will no longer be that voice for you in Harrisburg. Through this disappointment, I’m also overwhelmed with gratitude. I am in awe of how hard you worked to allow me to continue representing you in the 151st District.

This campaign was built by the hard work of all my supporters, volunteers, staff, friends, and family. To you, I am forever in your debt. Thank you for working so hard. Please feel free to give me a call and let me know if there is anything I can ever do to help you.

Shannon P. Meehan (candidate, 163rd state house)

My deepest gratitude...

Friends—

After some much-needed rest, I wanted to take the time to thank you for all you have done for me and my campaign over the eight months. Although we came up short last Tuesday, we accomplished extraordinary things, and I am incredibly proud of the work we were able to do with your support.

As a first time candidate, campaigning was all new to me. I was told there would be hard work and long hours, but I never expected the positive feedback I received from voters—of all political affiliations—and the overwhelming support of people like you. Because of your contributions—financial, time, energy, and words of encouragement—we were able to do all that could be done leading up to this election.

Over the past eight months, we knocked on almost 10,000 doors, built a strong grassroots organization, and fought hard against the Republican establishment. While we were not successful this time, I hope that you stay involved in local politics and continue to support our Democratic candidates.

Josh Shapiro (153rd state house, re-elected)

I'm writing to simply say, thank you.

With your help along with thousands of volunteers and donors, we were able to mount a strong campaign and win reelection to the Pennsylvania state House of Representatives. In a competitive district and facing strong political headwinds, we received 70 percent of the vote. I'm grateful to the more than 17,000 voters--Democrats, Republicans and Independents--in Abington and Upper Dublin who again entrusted me with their vote.

You're sending me back to Harrisburg to continue our efforts to create jobs, reform state government, improve education and much more. I'm ready for that fight, but Harrisburg will look different next year. We'll have a new Republican Governor and the Republicans will control the House and the Senate. I won't be afraid to cross the aisle to work with them to advance our goals but I also won't be afraid to stand up to them respectfully when we disagree. The political circumstances in the Capitol may be different but I'll be working for you with the same energy and determination.

I hope you'll keep up with our efforts on Facebook and Twitter and stay in touch by email.

Thanks again for your outstanding support.

Another Trivedi / Gerlach Debate

PCN is providing a wonderful public service by replaying a variety of debates. I taped one between Jim Gerlach, Republican congressman from the 6th district, and his Democratic opponent Dr. Manan Trivedi.

These are rough notes from that debate. It is not intended as a full transcript. I apologize in advance for any errors or misconceptions and encourage voters in the 6th district to watch the debate themselves.

6th congressional district debate
Tuesday evening, October 12th
Jewish Federation of Greater Philadelphia
Main Line Reform Temple
Mark Zucker, Jewish Community Relations Council

Jim Gerlach in 1990 won first of two terms in the state house, then two terms in the state senate. He was elected to congress in 2002. He was worked on welfare reform and land use in state government and in congress he worked for a new national veterans cemetery and on Medicare prescription drugs. He attended Dickinson College and received a BA in political science, and Dickinson Law School. He has three children and three stepchildren.

Dr. Manan Trivedi was born and raised in Berks County and is the son of immigrants. As a young boy he won a contest on healthy eating [missed part of this] and won a community service award in college. After medical school he joined the Navy and was a battalion surgeon with the first troops in Iraq. He has a masters degree in health [missed what aspect of health] and is a primary care physician.

Opening Statement

JG: Greeting and thanks. Election boils down to what does this Congress need to do to run the country around and who is best to represent the district. People feel Congress has taxed too much, spent too much and borrowed too much. Nation that is secure and there for partners like the state of Israel. Did not support stimulus or health care reform or cap and trade or permanent bailout. Opponent favors all.

MT: Greeting and thanks. Been going around district and listening. People are frustrated. Elected officials lost touch. Need new leadership. As battalion surgeon and primary care physician and new father I can supply that leadership. Social security [missed this]. When Red Cheek Apple closed my dad lost his job and his pension was raided. Believed in American dream. JG only fights for Washington special interests. I have fought on the front lines of Iraq and on the front lines of health care. JG follows ideology and I use evidence to decide.

Q1 [citing daughter] What would you say to an 18 year old on why they should vote and care about this election?

JG: Thank her for registering to vote. Look at candidates in all races. What will they do? Her votes count. In my first election I won by 23 votes. It is important to participate. Understand the issues, social security, debt.

MT: Thank her for registering. People get cynical. There are people out there who want to do the right thing. Get involved. Advocate and canvass. Health care, now adults covered under parents health insurance. Student loans, now the middle man is cut out. Jobs. JG voted to give tax breaks to companies that ship jobs overseas. We need to protect social security.

JG: In health care. Do support covering pre-existing conditions and allowing parents to keep adult children on their coverage. On the vote on jobs overseas. That bill would raise taxes on businesses. Put more debt, 54B, not a jobs bill but a tax and spend bill.

MT: We need to continue to work on health care. System was broken and unsustainable. That bill does give tax breaks to companies shipping jobs overseas.

Q2: The Tea Party, what does it say about us?

MT: Don't understand the Tea Party in any significant fashion. Support effort to increase public discourse. The Tea Party controls Gerlach's party right now. They want to cut off foreign aid, including to Israel. Concerning extremist movement. Gerlach is beholden to them.

JG: Some would say moveon.org too over your party years ago. Some would say it is extreme. There are many Tea Party organizations in this area. Some would say it is extreme. They are angry and concerned. Debt and taxes, what it means for job creation. They take different positions. Concerned about the future of the country. The have the right to engage but it must be done in a civil and respectful way.

MT: Agree we need to be civil and responsible. The Tea Party espouses privatizing social security, repealing all parts of the health care bill, “taking our country back.” We should engage but they must meet us halfway.

JG: They do want to see the bill repealed and replaced but so do 60% of the American people.

Q3: what is civil and responsible in regards to Park 51 (Ground Zero mosque)?

JG: Everyone should and can express our views but not in hate. The may have the right to do it but may not be the right thing to do. The minister who wanted to burn the Koran had the right to do it but it may not be the right thing to do. The same as with those who protest at funerals. They have the right but it may not be civil and responsible.

MT: We need more civil discourse. Base it on evidence and principle. He falls under ideology, what the party bosses tell him. I fought for the Constitution. This is a New York issue but this is a right in the Constitution. I think we can rise above partisan rhetoric. Republican and Democrats are at loggerheads; let's look at the rhetoric and rise above. Let's get things done.

JG: Evidence is clear that the stimulus didn't work. The president said he would keep unemployment under 8% and it is now 9.6%. People want a different direction.

MT: The stimulus was poorly implemented. Wasn't effective or transparent. But something had to be done. If not done unemployment would probably be over 20%. We need to continue. Make hcr better. Instead of no, no, no.

Q4: If you had an hour alone with Secretary of State Clinton, the prime minister of Israel and the leader of the Palestenian Authority [may have this title wrong].

MT: I would be honored in such esteemed company. Israel is a valued ally. In uniform I was willing to fight (die?) for Israel. The important thing – need bilateral negotiations without preconditions and guarantee for Palestine that they will be honest brokers. Security important. The Palestinian Authority left the table.

JG: To Secretary Clinton, you've been doing a good job. Continued to be a facilitating entity. More attention to talking more to Arab nations. Never stepped up to help solve poverty in Palestine (?). Try to get Arab powers to work towards a Middle East peace. To Israeli prime minister, stay strong. Needs to be protected and supported.

MT: has to be about [missed this]. Israel is a soverign nation. The Palestinian Authority must be an honest broker. Palestinian settlements an overblown issue.

Q5: Economic sanctions against Iran regarding nuclear weapons. Additional actions?

JG: I supported that legislation. I supported every effort to get Iran to cease and desist. No one has a crystal ball here. Iran has threatened Israel and is a friend of terrorist organizations. It ought to scare everyone's pants off. Everyone ought to be concerned. Use sanction power. Economic and diplomatc efforts. Every possible effort.

MT: I applauded that bill as well. Implementation is the key. First time we've stopped for an oil company and sanctioned them. Centrifuges don't wait for negotiations. Need to stop Iran. Very real threat. All options on the table, including the military option. Look at how did we get here. Failed policies in Washington. Took eye off the ball. Failed efforts of Bush and Gerlach. Lost the bigger picture.

JG: We got in this situation because the nut in charge of Iran support terrorist organizations and wants to snuff out Israel. Battle for hearts and minds. Basic values we have here not based on one administration. Hopefully Iranians will change the country.

MT: Enforce sanctions. No doubt our actions in part of it. Hold our leaders accountable. Took our eye off the ball.

Q6: climate change, comprehensive energy policy

MT: Time for fact finding is over. The evidence is clear and quite scary. My opponent still doesn't profess to believe that global warming is real and man made. There are bills and ways we can cut emissions. Calling the cap and trade bill a job killer is political rhetoric. Can get this done in a way that promote job growth.

JG: We need a comprehensive energy plan and to break our dependency on foreign oil, break our dependency on fossil fuels. We need to include clean coal and nuclear power. The French get most of their energy from nuclear power. Cap and trade is wrong direction because of the huge cost to business. That would drive businesses offshore. Throw on top of that the increases in energy. PPL says that bill would increase [20% or 30%]. The bill is badly written.

MT: We need clean energy. Look as his big oil and gas contributions. He has taken over $700K in special interest money. Problem with guys in Washington. Need to reduce dependency on foreign oil for security and also to get the economy on track.

JG: You've gotten money from unions and trail lawyers. I would never say that you would alter your decisions based on contributions. I hope you would extend me the same courtesy.

Q7: Tax cuts, if we extend them how will we pay for them?

JG: With 9.7% unemployment the time is not now for raising taxes on anyone. In the House there is bipartisan support for extending the tax cuts to everyone.

MT: I support extending the tax cuts to all but the top 2%, mostly millionaires and billionaires. Economists have proven that it won't help the economy. It is not a supply side problem but a demand problem. Millionaires and billionaires would get $100,000. It would affect less than 3% of the small business and of those 88% are individuals like Derek Jeeter or Paris Hilton. JG favors those that line your pockets. Wish it wasn't the case. You've gotten nearly $1 M from Wall Street. I've gotten no corporate PAC money.

JG: You don't understand evidence out there. Raising taxes on those earning over $250,000. They are the people that create jobs. $900B tax increase on them is goofy and totally irresponsible.

MT: Confusing evidence and rhetoric. Less than 3% of small businesses affected. Will only help millionaires and billionaires. Single person companies, hedge funds and artists. Any economist with half a soul would tell you this won't help.

Q8: Assuming we extend tax cuts how do we fund them?

MT: We need to look through federal budget with fine tooth comb. A lot of inefficiencies. Don't send jobs overseas, cut health care. Secretary of Defense says the Dept of Defense spends too much. Support troops. When in Iraq saw contractors being paid more than soldiers. It can't be done with a mallet and must be done with a surgical knife. So send a surgeon to Congress.

JG: Congress has not done oversight job well. Under Clinton and Bush total government spending was 20% of the gdp, now it is 25% of the gdp. That is unsustainable. When JFK cut taxes it increased the economy. The same happened with Reagan cut taxes. Leave money in the private sector to create jobs. Don't increase spending in public sector that should be done in the private sector.

MT: The answer isn't bigger government but smarter government. I did this as a health policy advisor to [Navy? Government?]. Trickle down – I'm still waiting for the trickle. If it worked we wouldn't be in this position. We got here by tax cuts for the wealthy and by deregulation.

JG: Would like someone who has been in the House since 2006 to take responsibility. The Democrats were in control. Haven't said a word about tort reform and you're a physician! I talk with physicians every day and they want tort reform.

Q9: school choice

JG: Support voucher program in DC to see what would happen. Haven't supported it more generally. Need more evidence. Did support Opportunity Scholarships in PA. Has worked well. Public schools need resources. Allow opportunity for people to go to charter schools, etc.

MT: Support school choice that makes education better. In national budget very little spending on education. Someone said if you want to see what the economy will be like in 10 years look at education now. Innovation, support teachers. Don't just teach to the test. Not allowed to be creative. I've always said tort reform should be part of the solution. But not the whole answer. Tort reform is not everything.

JG: Issue interesting. ESCA, Elementary School Reauthorization Act gives distressed schools choices: fire the principal, fires the principal and half the teachers or close the school and go to a charter school.

Q10: immigration reform

JG: The president called on Congress to take It up, not enough consensus: 1) control southern border, majority come for better life but also drug dealers and terrorists, 2) immigration and national security administration – ability to deal with those who overstayed their visas, and 3) people who come through other circumstances. Rule of law. Bipartisan discussion on those here without legal right. Rule of law.

MT: comprehensive immigration reform. Seal borders. Crack down on companies who hire illegals. Those here pay back taxes, criminal background check, get in back of line for citizenship. Has to be national, can't be state.

Q11: abortion

JG: oppose except in cases of rape, incest, and life of the mother. Work to prevent unwanted pregnancies.

MT: Need to reduce unwanted pregnancies but as a husband, father of a daughter and as a physician, believe in a woman's right to choose.

Closing Statements

MT: Thanks. Thanks to JG for allowing recording and taping of this debate. Let's have a debate in Berks County. We've had a debate in Chester and Montgomery Counties. It is clear there is a difference between the candidates. My opponent has gone Washington. Stopped listening to us. Washington syndrome. We need real people with real solutions. His policies won't work. Repealing tax cuts will cost us [missed amount]. Shipping jobs overseas will cost us. America can't afford Gerlach anymore.

JG: Thanks. The American people can't afford current policies. People in my district communicate every day. They want lower taxes, lower government spending, and stop bailouts. Repeal and replace health care reform. My opponent is on the wrong side of the 6th district. He supports the stimulus and capt and trade. People want to change Congress, through out current leadership and current policies.