The First Read — November 30, 2009

Every Monday-Thursday morning, pa2010.com compiles the most important political news of the day, from newspapers to the blogosphere and back. Enjoy this edition.

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Watkins running for Lt. Gov.
After months of prodding by supporters, longtime Republican operative Joe Watkins has decided to run for Lieutenant Governor. Read More

Gerber endorsing Onorato today
Allegheny County Executive Dan Onorato will formally get the backing of another prominent southeast lawmaker Monday, when state Representative Mike Gerber (D-Montgomery) endorses the Democratic candidate for governor. Read More

Rendell’s legacy largely in place after seven years
Twelve months from now, a newly elected governor will be hiring staff, planning an inauguration and getting ready to write the next chapters in Pennsylvania’s long history. Newspapers also will be running stories that look back on Democratic Gov. Ed Rendell’s eight years as the state’s chief executive. Odds are those articles will not dwell much on the events of his final year. Read More

Lobbyist expenses wasteful, critics say
Pennsylvania governments paid lobbyists more than $4 million this year to lobby the state and federal governments for more tax money. Watchdog groups call the expenses wasteful, saying taxpayers pay elected representatives to do that job. Government officials say they need lobbyists to compete for more funds. Read More

Planning official wants tolls on many Pa. roads
The leading regional planner for southeastern Pennsylvania thinks that tolling U.S. Route 422 to generate highway funding is good for starters. Read More

Abortion tests Casey on health care reform
Senator Bob Casey wants to talk about health care, Medicare, children’s insurance, a public option—anything but abortion. Read More
Also: Could Casey be the Stupak of the Senate?

Have a great day!