News & Brews October 17, 2023
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State budget remains incomplete
Spotlight PA reminds us that nearly four months after the traditional budget deadline, our state budget remains unfinished. And more than $1 billion in spending still requires implementation language—or “code bills.” The House and Senate have passed versions of these bills, but agreement between the chambers has been evasive. Lawmakers are back in session this week.
Casey’s fundraising has him ‘well-positioned’ for ’24
The progressive Pennsylvania Capital-Star reports that Democrat U.S. Sen. Bob Casey brought in $3.2 million in the third quarter, according to his latest campaign finance report. While that’s “down from Casey’s personal-best haul of $4 million in the second quarter,” it “still shows a candidate who is well-positioned for what may prove to be one of the costlier Senate races of the 2024 cycle.” Republican David McCormick’s fundraising totals are not yet available.
Thousands gather at Pa. March for Life
Yesterday, thousands of pro-life supporters gathered outside the Capitol for the annual Pennsylvania March for Life. Among the speakers were multiple lawmakers. In addition to standing for the rights of the unborn, speakers took issue with Gov. Shapiro’s cutting off resources to help pregnant women by ending funding for pregnancy resource centers.
Op-Ed: Dems ‘put power over people’
House Republican Whip Rep. Tim O’Neal (Washington County) recounts the “chaos,” “corruption,” and “scandal” that have plagued the Pa. Democrat party since the start of 2023. From shutting down the Pa. House for months earlier this year, to getting caught for campaign finance violation, to mishandling sexual harassment allegations, Democrats, O’Neal writes, “need to clean up their act or step aside and let the adults get to work.”
Allegheny Co. exec race could hint at region’s political future
WESA says that the race for Allegheny County executive between Democrat Sara Innamorato and Republican Joe Rockey ”will provide the clearest picture yet of where the county and region are headed politically.” Rockey is running as a moderate, and he “has set out to prove that the county can still swing red for the right candidate.” Innamorato, meanwhile, “is trying to extend a progressive winning streak to the countywide level, while proving the movement appeals to voters outside of ultra-liberal enclaves.”