More Philliness for May, 2006

Center City rumble

Things are getting downright nasty in the Democratic primary for the 182d state House District in Center City.

Incumbent Rep. Babette Josephs' campaign has accused challenger Larry Farnese of receiving a contribution from the National Italian American PAC, which - and here's the real rub in the liberal district - has given money to conservative U.S. Sen. Rick Santorum (R., Pa.).

"You've got a guy running for the Democratic nomination ... who's trying to hide money he received from a group which funds one of the most right-wing, antiwoman, antigay Republicans around," said Lionel Artom-Ginzburg, attorney for the Josephs reelection campaign.

Baloney, Farnese said. While the PAC did support Santorum, who is the highest-ranking Italian American in politics, it says it is bipartisan and has given to State Sen. Vince Fumo of Philadelphia, a Democrat (and an Italian American). Records show the committee has received contributions from prominent Democrats such as U.S. Rep. Bob Brady (D., Pa.), State Treasurer Bob Casey Jr., Lt. Gov. Catherine Baker Knoll, and others.

"She is completely out of touch, and this just proves it," Farnese said. "She campaigns every time by pulling these stunts and spreading untrue and unfair statements. Can we trust her in Harrisburg?"

- Thomas Fitzgerald


The TrekMedic ponders:

OMG! Imagine that,...groups other than pro-black, pro-affirmative action, pro-abortion that give to Democrats! I guess ol' Babette is jealous. Hmm,...Italians supporting other Italians,..what a unique idea,....