Diana Irey: The Non-Endorsement Endorsement

This is really too much. We endorse Murtha, but we don't endorse him. What is that all about? Is John Kerry writing their copy now? I think Diana Irey's chances of beating this senile old man just went up by leaps and bounds! Go Diana!

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT: Bill Pascoe Sunday, November 05, 2006 (724) 258-2300

When Is an Endorsement NOT an Endorsement? When the Johnstown Tribune-Democrat Endorses Jack Murtha, That's When! While we endorse the local congressman in his re-election bid, we fear the spending spree that might result from a shift in power, especially as President Bush attempts to carve out a positive legacy in the final two years of his second term. Our endorsement of Murtha over Republican challenger Diana Irey is done for some reasons that might surprise our readers, and comes with some words of caution for the longtime lawmaker ... Murtha did predict that Bush would be willing to do some dealing during his final two years, especially if the House shifts from Republican to Democratic control. Quite simply, that means spending more money at a time when our federal debt is soaring out of sight. We urge the congressman, if re-elected, to push for reduced rather than increased spending - even if it means some of the "pork" local folks have come to love is not available. After all, why should we get excited about Murtha bringing our own money back to this area? We'd rather keep it and spend it as we see fit. We would also urge Murtha to sit down with area veterans who clearly have different views on the Iraq conflict than he does. We are frightened by Murtha's willingness to align himself with California Democrat Nancy Pelosi. Clearly, Murtha is hoping that relationship paves the way for his ascension to a position of higher power in the House. But we don't believe our region's values match well with Pelosi's, and we don't see much good coming for the 12th district -- even if the relationship benefits the congressman. Beyond that, Murtha has endeared himself to liberals on both coasts -- raising money for his allies in California, New England and elsewhere. We hope he can keep these "friends" and their spending ways in check if the Democrats retake the House. We are somewhat impressed with Irey, who presents herself as a thoughtful and articulate candidate. She has some ideas that we're interested in, including reducing federal spending. -- The Johnstown Tribune-Democrat, November 5, 2006

Murtha Must Go! has more.