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An electoral Triple Crown

Well folks, it’s the political tri-fecta today. What the Triple Crown in horseracing is (Kentucky Derby, Preakness, and the Belmont Stakes), Tuesday will be in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania for Governor, Lieutenant Governor, and Congress. The candidates have discussed, schmoozed, talked, talked, and talked some more. They’ve hugged babies, had tea with seniors, shared Guiness with constituents, and they were ready—ready to “go the distance” when the polls opened at 7 a.m.

This is the first primary that Suburban Snapshot can remember having so much excitement at the heart of it.

Yes, the usual disclosures, I’m working for both Mike Fitzpatrick and Brian Haughton in the 8th and 13th District. But regardless, James Jones and Ira Hoffman have become my friends who will be the future of the Bucks County GOP, as their campaigns were very positive. And yes, I’ve written some good stuff about them. They also conducted themselves with decorum, finesse, and a gentlemanly demeanor. Having an open primary in Bucks County really did bring out the best in most of the candidates.

Regarding the 13th, I know both Josh Quinter and Dee Adcock—nice men. Both have campaigns that are well financed as is evidenced by the signs and mailers. But don’t discount Haughton. He has pluck, an “in your face” persona which is definitely something a candidate needs to beat Allyson Schwartz. Quinter and Adcock are fine candidates, but give Haughton a second look. He has the backing of the firefighters, policemen, the Philly GOP, and lots of workers. He could just be the candidate to send Schwartz packing.

The press is having a field day with the Tea Party movement; endorsements; the grassroots and netroots that are exploding around the campaigns. This is a really energized conservative primary election. Here in Montgomery County, we usually get around 17 percent for a midterm primary. We are hoping for a better turnout.

In sum: I go by my feelings, gut—and my intuition. In the 8th, Fitzpatrick has the name recognition, fundraising capability, and ability to “go the distance” when it comes to beating Patrick Murphy in November. Just looking at Fitzpatrick’s participation in the numerous Tea Party debates, health care forums, and hundreds of meet ‘ n greets, it is obvious this candidate is the one that has all the chutzpah to campaign, go toe-to-toe against Murphy, and get the 8th back in conservative hands. In the 13th, Haughton can win, especially if the vote is split in Montco.

Tomorrow though, begins a new page for all of us here at Suburban Snapshot. We will support who wins these primaries. We will be dignified and congratulate the winners and the losers, because those who don’t win still deserve congratulations for hanging in and following through.

Those who do not emerge victorious will be back—and make the Republican Party stronger and better. Remember, it took Abraham Lincoln at least four tries to get elected—and he did some pretty great things for our country.

May 18, 2010 at 11:22 am

--Beth Hegedus

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