Fitzpatrick Offers Solutions, Murphy Offers More Rhetoric

Third debate shows stark contrast between candidates

DOYLESTOWN, Pa–In their third debate of the campaign, Mike Fitzpatrick continued to offer pro-growth solutions to grow the economy and create jobs.  Meanwhile Patrick Murphy offered nothing but rhetoric and distortions.  The debate sponsored by the Central Bucks Chamber of Commerce and the League of Women Voters took place at the Waterwheel Restaurant in Doylestown.  The ninety-minute exchange focused largely on how to help small businesses create jobs as well as how to increase government transparency.

Mike Fitzpatrick reiterated his pledge to extend current tax rates for small businesses and family farms.  In contrast, Murphy expressed his support for higher taxes on families, businesses, and even increasing the death tax from 0% to 55% effective January 1, 2011.   Fitzpatrick called on Murphy to join him in signing the taxpayer protection pledge and promising not to raise taxes on job creators, but Murphy declined.

“An economic recession is no time to raise taxes on anyone,” said Fitzpatrick, “today Congressman Murphy had the opportunity to demonstrate that he is willing to be a part of the solution to the economic woes he and Nancy Pelosi have created.  Unfortunately, but also unsurprisingly, he once again told small business owners and job creators no.”

The debate also focused on issues of transparency and accountability in government.  “We were promised an open and accountable government by Congressman Murphy and Nancy Pelosi,” said Fitzpatrick, “instead we got backroom deals, earmarks, ethics problems, and from Congressman Murphy, a secret $100,000 book deal that violated the spirit if not the letter of House ethics rules.”

In the past Murphy has claimed that he would donate his congressional pay raises, which have amounted to over $10,000 in just four years, as well as a portion of his book deal proceeds to charity.  To date, Murphy has offered no proof of any such donations.

The next debate between Fitzpatrick and Murphy is scheduled to take place on Thursday, October 21 at 8:00 AM at the Bucks County Technical High School.

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