Pat Toomey. Who’d have guessed this? Senator Toomey introduces a budget, and faces harsh criticism that it’s too.. liberal? Conservatives say it doesn’t sufficiently alter entitlement programs. “Let it be known that this is the day America’s financial future died,” said Fox News’ Neil Cavuto on the subject. Attention Tea Party: Dems still control the Senate and White House. Exaggerated expectations will lead to decreased GOP voter enthusiasm. Just look at the “permanent Democratic majority” crowd from 2008 to 2010.
.
.
.

Risa Ferman. A $250K quarter isn’t bad for someone who’s unopposed. Most statewide operatives believe that if she decided to run for Attorney General, the GOP field will clear for her.
.
.
.

Rich Fitzgerald. After weeks of blasting his opponent for being cozy with Marcellus drillers, emails surfaced this week wherein Fitz begs industry types for campaign cash and promises to be a drilling ally. At best, it’s an embarrassing look at the reality of politics. At worst, it’s blatant hypocrisy. “That’s why candidates should not have smart phones,” quipped one operative.
.

Mark Flaherty. His campaign’s release of Fitzgerald’s embarrassing emails was a big score for the Allegheny Controller, and basically ends that issue for his opponent. However, it’s late in the game, most ad spots are already purchased, and it’s possible the issue won’t have a chance to saturate in time for Tuesday’s primary.

Bill Shuster. The redistricting point-person in the PA delegation finally got some recognition this week, when Roll Call named one of the top ten Congressman most influential in the process.
.
.
.

PA pro-choicers. It’s tough to see where the “HB 574 will cause clinics to close” argument will get them in a political environment where a significant portion of voters want all clinics closed, and all elected branches of state government are inclined to agree.
.
.

Early Returns. The online political arm of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette earned a Golden Quill award from the Press Club of Western Pa for best blog, and celebrated with an incredible ‘Simpsons’ reference.