Americans for Prosperity get a down arrow this week, and it’s not for their pretentious name. It’s for their bad judgment and not doing their homework.  Their TV ads blasting Kathy Dahlkemper’s healthcare vote saying the legislation would go soft on cancer issues was timed more than a little bit badly — coming just weeks after Dahlkemper lost both her parents to cancer.  Very poor taste. Have an intern so a little background research next time.

The hot trend in primary politics is to slap your opponent with a lawsuit challenging his or her nominating petitions.  The Lebanon Daily news reports over 80 candidates have had their petitions challenged before the Commonwealth Court. Among them,  Dan Onorato filed a suit against Joe Hoeffel, Joe Sestak is challenging Independent and little known Joe Vodvarka, and although not initiated (but supported) by the Brian Lentz campaign–Pat Meehan has been sued as well.  Rounding out this list, Tim Holden opponent  Shelia Dow-Ford apparently had some messy  petitions, as did Pia Varma, who is trying to encroach on Bob Brady’s secure territory. Very Wacky.

We have to give a nod to Post-Gazette reporter Joe Smydo for his creative writing.  In a week of healthcare, primary, and  Bonusgate overload, the chuckle he gave us was much needed.  Referencing Luke Ravenstahl’s proposal for a tax on junky beverages, Smydo wrote, “If Pittsburgh Mayor Luke Ravenstahl has his way, sales of sugary drinks one day might be refreshing the city treasury.” Sweet.

An  ouch for Doug Pike.  State Rep Josh Shapiro —withdrew his endorsement this week, saying when he endorsed Pike last summer, he was the only candidate in the race.  Manan Trivedi has plenty to smile about now.

At press time, there is still no verdict in the Mike Veon’s trial.  According to reports jurors were having a rough week together, at one point even asking to be given a break to experience a little spring sunshine on a nice day.  Rumors are it will still be a few more days. Now we wait.  And Mike Veon’s not the only one who has a lot at stake,  Tom Corbett does, too.

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