Tag: Arson

It’s Friday. To those who celebrate, Happy Passover and Happy Easter.

The PoliticsPA Playbook is compiled by Steve Ulrich. To read in your browser, click here. Was this email forwarded to you? Subscribe for free.

Your Morning Pick-Me-Up. Twist and Shout. Shake it up, baby.

PA Weather
🌤️ Trafford | Decreasing Clouds, 80
🌤️ Bellwood | Decreasing Clouds, 78
☀️ Havertown | Mostly Sunny, 71

PA Sports
⚾ Phillies (11-8) | San Francisco 6-4 | Fri-Sun vs. Miami
⚾ Pirates (7-12) | Washington 1-0 | Fri-Sun vs. Cleveland
🏒 Flyers (33-39-10) | Buffalo 4-5 (season complete)
🏒 Penguins (34-36-12) | Washington 5-2 (season complete)
⚽ Union (4-1-3) | Sat vs. Atlanta United

What We’re Listening To. On the latest edition of Voices of Reason, we talk with Pat Dugan, candidate for the Democratic nomination for District Attorney for the city of Philadelphia.

 

Top Story

1. Shapiro Gives Sit-Down Interview From Residence After Arson Attack

Fire at the Governor's Residence

“Days after an arson attack damaged his official residence, Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro sat down with Good Morning America co-anchor George Stephanopoulos for an exclusive interview and a tour of the charred rooms.

“This is sadly a real part of our society today. And it needs to be universally condemned, George,” Shapiro said regarding the rise of politically motivated threats and attacks that the Department of Homeland Security has warned about in recent years.

“I don’t care if it’s coming from the left, from the right. I don’t care if it’s coming from someone who you voted for or someone who you didn’t vote for, someone on your team or someone on the other team,” Shapiro continued.” (ABC News)

Elsewhere

In His Words: Shapiro Recounts Evacuating Arson Fire in Pajamas at Pennsylvania Governor’s Residence. “Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro on Thursday provided new details about the arson fire early Sunday that prompted his family’s evacuation from the governor’s official residence in Harrisburg, recounting how wife and four kids and their two dogs — Bo and Bentley — were awakened by state police and guided to safety.” (AP)

Rep. Meuser: Recent Remarks On Arson Attack Were ‘Mischaracterized’. “No matter our political differences, there is no place for violence of any kind in our society. The individual in custody is clearly deranged and solely responsible for his actions — a reporter mischaracterized my comments.” (Wilkes-Barre Times Leader)

Rep. Perry Admits Tariffs Might Make the ‘Sweetest Place On Earth’ A Bit Bitter. “President Donald Trump has claimed that his sweeping tariff plan will bring manufacturing back to the United States. But it’s hard to manufacture more chocolate when there’s a new import tax on ingredients that can’t be grown domestically — like cocoa beans.” (PennLive)

Federal Cuts Threaten to Close Pennsylvania Lab That Certifies N95s and Other Respirators in June. “Most Americans learned what an N95 mask was during the COVID-19 pandemic. But what many still don’t know is that every one of them was certified by a single, government-run lab in Bruceton, Allegheny County.” (Penn Capital-Star)

 

State

2. The People Who Represent You in D.C. and Harrisburg Are Allowed to Keep Their Calendars Secret

Rep. Glenn Thompson Backs Trump's USDA Policies | Agriculture Business & Agritourism News | lancasterfarming.com

“Since President Donald Trump’s inauguration, multiple protests have been held outside U.S. Rep. Glenn Thompson’s Bellefonte office.

That includes a March 18 event where constituents voiced frustration over the Republican’s support of funding cuts under the Trump administration.

Thompson did not appear despite knowing about the event, Pinpointing exactly what Thompson was doing that day is impossible without him disclosing it. The U.S. House wasn’t in session, and Thompson — whose district includes all or part of 18 counties in north-central Pennsylvania — doesn’t have to share his schedule.” (Spotlight PA State College)

Elsewhere

Voices of Reason: Sen. Tracy Pennycuick and Artificial Intelligence in PA. “This episode dives into all things artificial intelligence in Pennsylvania – from image and audio manipulation to consumer protections and the A.I. regulation bills currently in the works.” (PoliticsPA)

PA GOP Lawmaker Apologizes For Questioning a 12-Year-Old About Pornography at Civics Event. “Sen. David Argall on Thursday apologized to Erin Anderson after she took him to task for what she said was a misuse of power and inappropriate questioning directed at her daughter during Wednesday night’s Civics Bee at Penn State Schuylkill.” (PennLive)

For Sale – Your State Legislature. “Democratic Rep. Solomon, Republican Rep. Rigby and activist Rabbi Michael Pollock are all pushing for a ban on egregious gifts to legislators — as in most other states. It is the 38th attempt at a gift ban in the last quarter century.” (Philadelphia Citizen)

 

Around The Commonwealth

3. Gainey, O’Connor Clash in Fiery Democratic Mayoral Primary Debate

Corey O'Connor and Ed Gainey

“Pittsburgh Mayor Ed Gainey and Allegheny County Controller Corey O’Connor clashed Thursday night in a contentious debate that put both Democratic mayoral candidates on the defensive.

The candidates traded accusations, interrupted each other and at times shouted during the 30-minute debate.” (Pittsburgh Post-Gazette)

Elsewhere

Gainey, Trailing O’Connor in Polls, Tries to Nationalize the Race For Pittsburgh Mayor. “Some of the people defending democracy most vocally right now, ironically enough, are the same ones who face the steepest struggle at the polls.” (WESA Politics)

Housing, DEI and Taxes: Takeaways as Candidates For Allentown Mayor Meet in First Debate. “Incumbent Mayor Matt Tuerk, a former vice president at the Lehigh Valley Economic Development Corporation, is seeking a second term at the helm of the city. He faces a challenge in the primary from City Council member Ed Zucal, a security guard at Muhlenberg Elementary School and former Allentown police officer.” (Allentown Morning Call)

SEPTA Cuts May Include a 45% Service Reduction, 21% Rate Hike. Will It Be Prevented? “The large-scale cutbacks outlined in the proposed budget involve the elimination of five regional rail lines and 50 bus routes, workforce reductions, a 9 p.m. curfew for metro and regional rail services, 66 station closures, the elimination of service for special events and a 20% reduction of service to all remaining routes.” (PhillyBurbs.com)

PA Primary Election 2025: A Guide to Vetting Local and Judicial Candidates. “When you go to the polls or fill out your mail ballot for the May 20 primary election, you’ll see a slew of local candidates with a lot of direct power over your daily life. While these officials help determine the taxes you pay and how the criminal justice system treats you, it can be difficult to find good information about them during election season.” (Spotlight PA)

 

Editorial

4. Speak Your Mind

 

 

1 Thing

5. These Are the Best PA Cities to Move To, Report Says

Altoona PA - Home

“Planning on moving to Pennsylvania but don’t know where? Well, then, this is the report for you.

As conducted and published by ConsumerAffairs, said report found and listed the top best cities to move to in the Keystone State.

The top five are, in ascending order: Plum, Altoona, Levittown, Drexel Hill, and Bethel Park.” (PennLive)

 

Thank you for starting your morning with us.
And reading the PoliticsPA Playbook

It’s Friday. To those who celebrate, Happy Passover and Happy Easter.

The PoliticsPA Playbook is compiled by Steve Ulrich. To read in your browser, click here. Was this email forwarded to you? Subscribe for free.

Your Morning Pick-Me-Up. Twist and Shout. Shake it up, baby.

PA Weather
🌤️ Trafford | Decreasing Clouds, 80
🌤️ Bellwood | Decreasing Clouds, 78
☀️ Havertown | Mostly Sunny, 71

PA Sports
⚾ Phillies (11-8) | San Francisco 6-4 | Fri-Sun vs. Miami
⚾ Pirates (7-12) | Washington 1-0 | Fri-Sun vs. Cleveland
🏒 Flyers (33-39-10) | Buffalo 4-5 (season complete)
🏒 Penguins (34-36-12) | Washington 5-2 (season complete)
⚽ Union (4-1-3) | Sat vs. Atlanta United

What We’re Listening To. On the latest edition of Voices of Reason, we talk with Pat Dugan, candidate for the Democratic nomination for District Attorney for the city of Philadelphia.

 

Top Story

1. Shapiro Gives Sit-Down Interview From Residence After Arson Attack

Fire at the Governor's Residence

“Days after an arson attack damaged his official residence, Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro sat down with Good Morning America co-anchor George Stephanopoulos for an exclusive interview and a tour of the charred rooms.

“This is sadly a real part of our society today. And it needs to be universally condemned, George,” Shapiro said regarding the rise of politically motivated threats and attacks that the Department of Homeland Security has warned about in recent years.

“I don’t care if it’s coming from the left, from the right. I don’t care if it’s coming from someone who you voted for or someone who you didn’t vote for, someone on your team or someone on the other team,” Shapiro continued.” (ABC News)

Elsewhere

In His Words: Shapiro Recounts Evacuating Arson Fire in Pajamas at Pennsylvania Governor’s Residence. “Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro on Thursday provided new details about the arson fire early Sunday that prompted his family’s evacuation from the governor’s official residence in Harrisburg, recounting how wife and four kids and their two dogs — Bo and Bentley — were awakened by state police and guided to safety.” (AP)

Rep. Meuser: Recent Remarks On Arson Attack Were ‘Mischaracterized’. “No matter our political differences, there is no place for violence of any kind in our society. The individual in custody is clearly deranged and solely responsible for his actions — a reporter mischaracterized my comments.” (Wilkes-Barre Times Leader)

Rep. Perry Admits Tariffs Might Make the ‘Sweetest Place On Earth’ A Bit Bitter. “President Donald Trump has claimed that his sweeping tariff plan will bring manufacturing back to the United States. But it’s hard to manufacture more chocolate when there’s a new import tax on ingredients that can’t be grown domestically — like cocoa beans.” (PennLive)

Federal Cuts Threaten to Close Pennsylvania Lab That Certifies N95s and Other Respirators in June. “Most Americans learned what an N95 mask was during the COVID-19 pandemic. But what many still don’t know is that every one of them was certified by a single, government-run lab in Bruceton, Allegheny County.” (Penn Capital-Star)

 

State

2. The People Who Represent You in D.C. and Harrisburg Are Allowed to Keep Their Calendars Secret

Rep. Glenn Thompson Backs Trump's USDA Policies | Agriculture Business & Agritourism News | lancasterfarming.com

“Since President Donald Trump’s inauguration, multiple protests have been held outside U.S. Rep. Glenn Thompson’s Bellefonte office.

That includes a March 18 event where constituents voiced frustration over the Republican’s support of funding cuts under the Trump administration.

Thompson did not appear despite knowing about the event, Pinpointing exactly what Thompson was doing that day is impossible without him disclosing it. The U.S. House wasn’t in session, and Thompson — whose district includes all or part of 18 counties in north-central Pennsylvania — doesn’t have to share his schedule.” (Spotlight PA State College)

Elsewhere

Voices of Reason: Sen. Tracy Pennycuick and Artificial Intelligence in PA. “This episode dives into all things artificial intelligence in Pennsylvania – from image and audio manipulation to consumer protections and the A.I. regulation bills currently in the works.” (PoliticsPA)

PA GOP Lawmaker Apologizes For Questioning a 12-Year-Old About Pornography at Civics Event. “Sen. David Argall on Thursday apologized to Erin Anderson after she took him to task for what she said was a misuse of power and inappropriate questioning directed at her daughter during Wednesday night’s Civics Bee at Penn State Schuylkill.” (PennLive)

For Sale – Your State Legislature. “Democratic Rep. Solomon, Republican Rep. Rigby and activist Rabbi Michael Pollock are all pushing for a ban on egregious gifts to legislators — as in most other states. It is the 38th attempt at a gift ban in the last quarter century.” (Philadelphia Citizen)

 

Around The Commonwealth

3. Gainey, O’Connor Clash in Fiery Democratic Mayoral Primary Debate

Corey O'Connor and Ed Gainey

“Pittsburgh Mayor Ed Gainey and Allegheny County Controller Corey O’Connor clashed Thursday night in a contentious debate that put both Democratic mayoral candidates on the defensive.

The candidates traded accusations, interrupted each other and at times shouted during the 30-minute debate.” (Pittsburgh Post-Gazette)

Elsewhere

Gainey, Trailing O’Connor in Polls, Tries to Nationalize the Race For Pittsburgh Mayor. “Some of the people defending democracy most vocally right now, ironically enough, are the same ones who face the steepest struggle at the polls.” (WESA Politics)

Housing, DEI and Taxes: Takeaways as Candidates For Allentown Mayor Meet in First Debate. “Incumbent Mayor Matt Tuerk, a former vice president at the Lehigh Valley Economic Development Corporation, is seeking a second term at the helm of the city. He faces a challenge in the primary from City Council member Ed Zucal, a security guard at Muhlenberg Elementary School and former Allentown police officer.” (Allentown Morning Call)

SEPTA Cuts May Include a 45% Service Reduction, 21% Rate Hike. Will It Be Prevented? “The large-scale cutbacks outlined in the proposed budget involve the elimination of five regional rail lines and 50 bus routes, workforce reductions, a 9 p.m. curfew for metro and regional rail services, 66 station closures, the elimination of service for special events and a 20% reduction of service to all remaining routes.” (PhillyBurbs.com)

PA Primary Election 2025: A Guide to Vetting Local and Judicial Candidates. “When you go to the polls or fill out your mail ballot for the May 20 primary election, you’ll see a slew of local candidates with a lot of direct power over your daily life. While these officials help determine the taxes you pay and how the criminal justice system treats you, it can be difficult to find good information about them during election season.” (Spotlight PA)

 

Editorial

4. Speak Your Mind

 

 

1 Thing

5. These Are the Best PA Cities to Move To, Report Says

Altoona PA - Home

“Planning on moving to Pennsylvania but don’t know where? Well, then, this is the report for you.

As conducted and published by ConsumerAffairs, said report found and listed the top best cities to move to in the Keystone State.

The top five are, in ascending order: Plum, Altoona, Levittown, Drexel Hill, and Bethel Park.” (PennLive)

 

Thank you for starting your morning with us.
And reading the PoliticsPA Playbook

Email:

It’s Friday. To those who celebrate, Happy Passover and Happy Easter.

The PoliticsPA Playbook is compiled by Steve Ulrich. To read in your browser, click here. Was this email forwarded to you? Subscribe for free.

Your Morning Pick-Me-Up. Twist and Shout. Shake it up, baby.

PA Weather
🌤️ Trafford | Decreasing Clouds, 80
🌤️ Bellwood | Decreasing Clouds, 78
☀️ Havertown | Mostly Sunny, 71

PA Sports
⚾ Phillies (11-8) | San Francisco 6-4 | Fri-Sun vs. Miami
⚾ Pirates (7-12) | Washington 1-0 | Fri-Sun vs. Cleveland
🏒 Flyers (33-39-10) | Buffalo 4-5 (season complete)
🏒 Penguins (34-36-12) | Washington 5-2 (season complete)
⚽ Union (4-1-3) | Sat vs. Atlanta United

What We’re Listening To. On the latest edition of Voices of Reason, we talk with Pat Dugan, candidate for the Democratic nomination for District Attorney for the city of Philadelphia.

 

Top Story

1. Shapiro Gives Sit-Down Interview From Residence After Arson Attack

Fire at the Governor's Residence

“Days after an arson attack damaged his official residence, Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro sat down with Good Morning America co-anchor George Stephanopoulos for an exclusive interview and a tour of the charred rooms.

“This is sadly a real part of our society today. And it needs to be universally condemned, George,” Shapiro said regarding the rise of politically motivated threats and attacks that the Department of Homeland Security has warned about in recent years.

“I don’t care if it’s coming from the left, from the right. I don’t care if it’s coming from someone who you voted for or someone who you didn’t vote for, someone on your team or someone on the other team,” Shapiro continued.” (ABC News)

Elsewhere

In His Words: Shapiro Recounts Evacuating Arson Fire in Pajamas at Pennsylvania Governor’s Residence. “Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro on Thursday provided new details about the arson fire early Sunday that prompted his family’s evacuation from the governor’s official residence in Harrisburg, recounting how wife and four kids and their two dogs — Bo and Bentley — were awakened by state police and guided to safety.” (AP)

Rep. Meuser: Recent Remarks On Arson Attack Were ‘Mischaracterized’. “No matter our political differences, there is no place for violence of any kind in our society. The individual in custody is clearly deranged and solely responsible for his actions — a reporter mischaracterized my comments.” (Wilkes-Barre Times Leader)

Rep. Perry Admits Tariffs Might Make the ‘Sweetest Place On Earth’ A Bit Bitter. “President Donald Trump has claimed that his sweeping tariff plan will bring manufacturing back to the United States. But it’s hard to manufacture more chocolate when there’s a new import tax on ingredients that can’t be grown domestically — like cocoa beans.” (PennLive)

Federal Cuts Threaten to Close Pennsylvania Lab That Certifies N95s and Other Respirators in June. “Most Americans learned what an N95 mask was during the COVID-19 pandemic. But what many still don’t know is that every one of them was certified by a single, government-run lab in Bruceton, Allegheny County.” (Penn Capital-Star)

 

State

2. The People Who Represent You in D.C. and Harrisburg Are Allowed to Keep Their Calendars Secret

Rep. Glenn Thompson Backs Trump's USDA Policies | Agriculture Business & Agritourism News | lancasterfarming.com

“Since President Donald Trump’s inauguration, multiple protests have been held outside U.S. Rep. Glenn Thompson’s Bellefonte office.

That includes a March 18 event where constituents voiced frustration over the Republican’s support of funding cuts under the Trump administration.

Thompson did not appear despite knowing about the event, Pinpointing exactly what Thompson was doing that day is impossible without him disclosing it. The U.S. House wasn’t in session, and Thompson — whose district includes all or part of 18 counties in north-central Pennsylvania — doesn’t have to share his schedule.” (Spotlight PA State College)

Elsewhere

Voices of Reason: Sen. Tracy Pennycuick and Artificial Intelligence in PA. “This episode dives into all things artificial intelligence in Pennsylvania – from image and audio manipulation to consumer protections and the A.I. regulation bills currently in the works.” (PoliticsPA)

PA GOP Lawmaker Apologizes For Questioning a 12-Year-Old About Pornography at Civics Event. “Sen. David Argall on Thursday apologized to Erin Anderson after she took him to task for what she said was a misuse of power and inappropriate questioning directed at her daughter during Wednesday night’s Civics Bee at Penn State Schuylkill.” (PennLive)

For Sale – Your State Legislature. “Democratic Rep. Solomon, Republican Rep. Rigby and activist Rabbi Michael Pollock are all pushing for a ban on egregious gifts to legislators — as in most other states. It is the 38th attempt at a gift ban in the last quarter century.” (Philadelphia Citizen)

 

Around The Commonwealth

3. Gainey, O’Connor Clash in Fiery Democratic Mayoral Primary Debate

Corey O'Connor and Ed Gainey

“Pittsburgh Mayor Ed Gainey and Allegheny County Controller Corey O’Connor clashed Thursday night in a contentious debate that put both Democratic mayoral candidates on the defensive.

The candidates traded accusations, interrupted each other and at times shouted during the 30-minute debate.” (Pittsburgh Post-Gazette)

Elsewhere

Gainey, Trailing O’Connor in Polls, Tries to Nationalize the Race For Pittsburgh Mayor. “Some of the people defending democracy most vocally right now, ironically enough, are the same ones who face the steepest struggle at the polls.” (WESA Politics)

Housing, DEI and Taxes: Takeaways as Candidates For Allentown Mayor Meet in First Debate. “Incumbent Mayor Matt Tuerk, a former vice president at the Lehigh Valley Economic Development Corporation, is seeking a second term at the helm of the city. He faces a challenge in the primary from City Council member Ed Zucal, a security guard at Muhlenberg Elementary School and former Allentown police officer.” (Allentown Morning Call)

SEPTA Cuts May Include a 45% Service Reduction, 21% Rate Hike. Will It Be Prevented? “The large-scale cutbacks outlined in the proposed budget involve the elimination of five regional rail lines and 50 bus routes, workforce reductions, a 9 p.m. curfew for metro and regional rail services, 66 station closures, the elimination of service for special events and a 20% reduction of service to all remaining routes.” (PhillyBurbs.com)

PA Primary Election 2025: A Guide to Vetting Local and Judicial Candidates. “When you go to the polls or fill out your mail ballot for the May 20 primary election, you’ll see a slew of local candidates with a lot of direct power over your daily life. While these officials help determine the taxes you pay and how the criminal justice system treats you, it can be difficult to find good information about them during election season.” (Spotlight PA)

 

Editorial

4. Speak Your Mind

 

 

1 Thing

5. These Are the Best PA Cities to Move To, Report Says

Altoona PA - Home

“Planning on moving to Pennsylvania but don’t know where? Well, then, this is the report for you.

As conducted and published by ConsumerAffairs, said report found and listed the top best cities to move to in the Keystone State.

The top five are, in ascending order: Plum, Altoona, Levittown, Drexel Hill, and Bethel Park.” (PennLive)

 

Thank you for starting your morning with us.
And reading the PoliticsPA Playbook

It’s Friday. To those who celebrate, Happy Passover and Happy Easter.

The PoliticsPA Playbook is compiled by Steve Ulrich. To read in your browser, click here. Was this email forwarded to you? Subscribe for free.

Your Morning Pick-Me-Up. Twist and Shout. Shake it up, baby.

PA Weather
🌤️ Trafford | Decreasing Clouds, 80
🌤️ Bellwood | Decreasing Clouds, 78
☀️ Havertown | Mostly Sunny, 71

PA Sports
⚾ Phillies (11-8) | San Francisco 6-4 | Fri-Sun vs. Miami
⚾ Pirates (7-12) | Washington 1-0 | Fri-Sun vs. Cleveland
🏒 Flyers (33-39-10) | Buffalo 4-5 (season complete)
🏒 Penguins (34-36-12) | Washington 5-2 (season complete)
⚽ Union (4-1-3) | Sat vs. Atlanta United

What We’re Listening To. On the latest edition of Voices of Reason, we talk with Pat Dugan, candidate for the Democratic nomination for District Attorney for the city of Philadelphia.

 

Top Story

1. Shapiro Gives Sit-Down Interview From Residence After Arson Attack

Fire at the Governor's Residence

“Days after an arson attack damaged his official residence, Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro sat down with Good Morning America co-anchor George Stephanopoulos for an exclusive interview and a tour of the charred rooms.

“This is sadly a real part of our society today. And it needs to be universally condemned, George,” Shapiro said regarding the rise of politically motivated threats and attacks that the Department of Homeland Security has warned about in recent years.

“I don’t care if it’s coming from the left, from the right. I don’t care if it’s coming from someone who you voted for or someone who you didn’t vote for, someone on your team or someone on the other team,” Shapiro continued.” (ABC News)

Elsewhere

In His Words: Shapiro Recounts Evacuating Arson Fire in Pajamas at Pennsylvania Governor’s Residence. “Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro on Thursday provided new details about the arson fire early Sunday that prompted his family’s evacuation from the governor’s official residence in Harrisburg, recounting how wife and four kids and their two dogs — Bo and Bentley — were awakened by state police and guided to safety.” (AP)

Rep. Meuser: Recent Remarks On Arson Attack Were ‘Mischaracterized’. “No matter our political differences, there is no place for violence of any kind in our society. The individual in custody is clearly deranged and solely responsible for his actions — a reporter mischaracterized my comments.” (Wilkes-Barre Times Leader)

Rep. Perry Admits Tariffs Might Make the ‘Sweetest Place On Earth’ A Bit Bitter. “President Donald Trump has claimed that his sweeping tariff plan will bring manufacturing back to the United States. But it’s hard to manufacture more chocolate when there’s a new import tax on ingredients that can’t be grown domestically — like cocoa beans.” (PennLive)

Federal Cuts Threaten to Close Pennsylvania Lab That Certifies N95s and Other Respirators in June. “Most Americans learned what an N95 mask was during the COVID-19 pandemic. But what many still don’t know is that every one of them was certified by a single, government-run lab in Bruceton, Allegheny County.” (Penn Capital-Star)

 

State

2. The People Who Represent You in D.C. and Harrisburg Are Allowed to Keep Their Calendars Secret

Rep. Glenn Thompson Backs Trump's USDA Policies | Agriculture Business & Agritourism News | lancasterfarming.com

“Since President Donald Trump’s inauguration, multiple protests have been held outside U.S. Rep. Glenn Thompson’s Bellefonte office.

That includes a March 18 event where constituents voiced frustration over the Republican’s support of funding cuts under the Trump administration.

Thompson did not appear despite knowing about the event, Pinpointing exactly what Thompson was doing that day is impossible without him disclosing it. The U.S. House wasn’t in session, and Thompson — whose district includes all or part of 18 counties in north-central Pennsylvania — doesn’t have to share his schedule.” (Spotlight PA State College)

Elsewhere

Voices of Reason: Sen. Tracy Pennycuick and Artificial Intelligence in PA. “This episode dives into all things artificial intelligence in Pennsylvania – from image and audio manipulation to consumer protections and the A.I. regulation bills currently in the works.” (PoliticsPA)

PA GOP Lawmaker Apologizes For Questioning a 12-Year-Old About Pornography at Civics Event. “Sen. David Argall on Thursday apologized to Erin Anderson after she took him to task for what she said was a misuse of power and inappropriate questioning directed at her daughter during Wednesday night’s Civics Bee at Penn State Schuylkill.” (PennLive)

For Sale – Your State Legislature. “Democratic Rep. Solomon, Republican Rep. Rigby and activist Rabbi Michael Pollock are all pushing for a ban on egregious gifts to legislators — as in most other states. It is the 38th attempt at a gift ban in the last quarter century.” (Philadelphia Citizen)

 

Around The Commonwealth

3. Gainey, O’Connor Clash in Fiery Democratic Mayoral Primary Debate

Corey O'Connor and Ed Gainey

“Pittsburgh Mayor Ed Gainey and Allegheny County Controller Corey O’Connor clashed Thursday night in a contentious debate that put both Democratic mayoral candidates on the defensive.

The candidates traded accusations, interrupted each other and at times shouted during the 30-minute debate.” (Pittsburgh Post-Gazette)

Elsewhere

Gainey, Trailing O’Connor in Polls, Tries to Nationalize the Race For Pittsburgh Mayor. “Some of the people defending democracy most vocally right now, ironically enough, are the same ones who face the steepest struggle at the polls.” (WESA Politics)

Housing, DEI and Taxes: Takeaways as Candidates For Allentown Mayor Meet in First Debate. “Incumbent Mayor Matt Tuerk, a former vice president at the Lehigh Valley Economic Development Corporation, is seeking a second term at the helm of the city. He faces a challenge in the primary from City Council member Ed Zucal, a security guard at Muhlenberg Elementary School and former Allentown police officer.” (Allentown Morning Call)

SEPTA Cuts May Include a 45% Service Reduction, 21% Rate Hike. Will It Be Prevented? “The large-scale cutbacks outlined in the proposed budget involve the elimination of five regional rail lines and 50 bus routes, workforce reductions, a 9 p.m. curfew for metro and regional rail services, 66 station closures, the elimination of service for special events and a 20% reduction of service to all remaining routes.” (PhillyBurbs.com)

PA Primary Election 2025: A Guide to Vetting Local and Judicial Candidates. “When you go to the polls or fill out your mail ballot for the May 20 primary election, you’ll see a slew of local candidates with a lot of direct power over your daily life. While these officials help determine the taxes you pay and how the criminal justice system treats you, it can be difficult to find good information about them during election season.” (Spotlight PA)

 

Editorial

4. Speak Your Mind

 

 

1 Thing

5. These Are the Best PA Cities to Move To, Report Says

Altoona PA - Home

“Planning on moving to Pennsylvania but don’t know where? Well, then, this is the report for you.

As conducted and published by ConsumerAffairs, said report found and listed the top best cities to move to in the Keystone State.

The top five are, in ascending order: Plum, Altoona, Levittown, Drexel Hill, and Bethel Park.” (PennLive)

 

Thank you for starting your morning with us.
And reading the PoliticsPA Playbook

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