The need for a new direction
The 182nd district has had the same representative for the past 25 years. With the many complex, entrenched, and often intertwined challenges facing Pennsylvania, I believe the time for fresh leadership is now.We are paying more in taxes and getting less. People who still have jobs are working longer hours. Healthcare costs are out of control. We're surrounded by crime and safety concerns and not receiving adequate help to fight back. Many of us have solutions and it is now time that we elect someone who will take action.
I am a progressive Democrat, but I am also a pragmatic one - the two should not be mutually exclusive. If we haven't been receiving the results our community needs over the past 25 years, then it's obvious we need to head in a new direction. I'm not asking you for a quarter century - I'm just asking for your vote on May 18th. Together, let's make a change in Harrisburg…and a difference for our community.
Defining our priorities
If you want to know what's important to someone, take a look at their checkbook. Our state government's checkbook is our state budget. In a rough economy, budget cuts are inevitable. We need a representative who will fight for our priorities. The budget for fiscal year 2010 speaks for itself. We received damaging funding cuts across the board, and often in areas where we need to invest, not cut. Here are a few examples:Urban Development: The 182nd district is arguably the most urban district in the state. Our current representative sits on the Urban Affairs Committee. Last year's budget for Urban Development: $18,750,000. This year's budget: Zero.
Economic Growth and Development Assistance: Last year's budget: $6,200,000. This year's budget: Zero.
Minority Business Development: State funding cut 61%.
University of the Arts: This school is located right in the heart of the district. Their state funding was cut 78%. In more recent budget adjustments, this university got hit again, bringing their total budget cut to a staggering 89%.
The Franklin Institute: This museum is also located right in the district. Their state funding was just cut 52%.
Unfortunately, there are several more examples that hit too close to home. It's time our budget reflects our priorities.
