In Pennsylvania, Signs That 'Republican Revolution'
Could Repeat Itself
In another year, Republican state Sen. David Argall would have little chance of toppling nine-term Rep. Tim Holden (D). Mr. Holden is a popular incumbent who typically votes his district, rather than his party, on issues ranging from health care to climate change. Moreover, Holden is expected to vastly outspend Mr. Argall in the crucial last few weeks of the race...
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Holden: Higher Taxes or Cuts to Social Security
POTTSVILLE - Dave Argall, Republican nominee for Pennsylvania's 17th Congressional District, questioned Congressman Holden's views on Social Security.
In an interview with the Reading Eagle on Friday, August 27th, Congressman Holden stated, "...payroll deduction rates will have to rise or benefits will have to decrease to keep the [Social Security] fund solvent in the future."
"With tax dollars being thrown away in Washington, Congressman Holden is in favor of higher taxes or slashing benefits with Social Security. This is more of the same rhetoric we have come to expect from a Washington insider. Unfortunately for our seniors, this year has been difficult with the Democrats in control of Congress. They continue to pull money out of the Social Security Trust fund to pay for entitlement programs, bailouts and irresponsible spending packages," stated Dave Argall.
"Our seniors in Central and Eastern Pennsylvania have worked hard and I pledge to protect Social Security. Unfortunately, one could expect Holden, a career Congressman, stating that we must raise taxes or slash benefits. Holden is sounding more like his Washington leaders in not wanting to protect and preserve the promise we've made to seniors," continued Argall.
"As your next Congressman, I will fight against privatization of Social Security, keeping our benefits protected and the retirement age should not be raised. Finally, I will ensure that your taxes are not raised, contrary to what my opponent says," concluded Argall.
###
See the PDF» ...read more from the Reading Eagle »
Toomey stumps in Fredericksburg
FREDERICKSBURG - Republican U.S. Senate candidate Pat Toomey spoke in Fredericksburg Monday morning as part of his four-day "more jobs, less government" bus tour across Pennsylvania.
Speaking to about 70 people at the Lebanon Valley Livestock Auction, Toomey said the stop was "part of the process of getting the message out."
...continue »
NRCC highlighted five key challengers who could very well be part of a new Republican Majority
"State Senator Dave Argall has served local Pennsylvanians for years and knows that fiscal discipline is an issue where voters want leadership, not more pandering. Dave is passionate about the same issues that the voters in Pennsylvania's 17th are. He's a defender of the Second Amendment, and he supports stronger regulations to secure the borders." (Ousting Pelosi's Puppet in Central PA, 8/11/10) Argall is challenging Democrat incumbent Rep. Tim Holden.
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GOP Puts Holden in Crosshairs
On Tuesday the NRCC announced that selected registered voters in the 17th Congressional District, which is represented by Holden and includes Lebanon County, would be receiving pre-recorded automated telephone calls criticizing the Schuylkill County native for not returning campaign contributions he received from representatives Charlie Rangel and Maxine Waters. Rangel of New York and Waters of California are facing trials before the House Ethics Committee for alleged financial violations, and many of their colleagues have returned money they've received from them. Holden has received $19,000 from Rangel and $1,000 from Waters, according to the NRCC...
...continue »
2010 Race of the Day: Ousting Pelosi's Puppet in Central PA
Central Pennsylvania has long been celebrated for its commitment to hard-work – the local region is home to many of the descendants of the coal-mining families who have provided energy for our nation for generations. We look today to the banks of the Susquehanna and the state capitol, Harrisburg, as we profile the exciting race in Pennsylvania’s 17th district. In recent years the district has garnered positive national and international attention for its medical facilities at the Milton S. Hershey Medical Center.
This district is currently represented by Tim Holden, a loyal and partisan Democrat who is running for a tenth term despite the conservative nature of this R+6 district. Holden first won election in the 17th after redistricting pitted him against another incumbent. The district has supported Republicans for president: Bush won here with 58% of the vote, and McCain claimed victory despite Obama winning the state. Holden has continued to win re-election by claiming to be a conservative Blue Dog when he is at home. When he’s in Washington, though, his record indicates that he can’t wait to line up next to his liberal colleagues. In fact, he’s voted with Nancy Pelosi 95.5% of the time. Contrary to his professed devotion to fiscal responsibility, he supported the stimulus bill, which cost taxpayers millions and allowed AIG executives to collect huge bonuses.
...continue »
Boehner to Raise Money for Argall
Republican House Minority Leader John Boehner (R-Ohio) will visit Harrisburg next week on behalf of GOP congressional candidate Dave Argall to give his campaign a fundraising boost.
It’s the seventh candidate the Republican leader will make an appearance for recently in Pennsylvania alone, and the state senator, who faces Republican incumbent Tim Holden in the 17th Congressional District, could use the financial help.
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For Immediate Release
August 6, 2010
Contact: Jon Hopcraft
570.622.1540
|
Argall Signs No Climate Tax Pledge
MYERSTOWN - Dave Argall, Republican nominee for Congress, signed Americans for Prosperity's "No Climate Tax Pledge" to oppose any legislation relating to climate change that includes a tax increase during the November is Coming bus tour in Lebanon County.
"Americans for Prosperity visited Lebanon County because Speaker Pelosi needs Congressman Holden's vote for re-election to Speaker of the House, along with votes for more wasteful spending and bailouts of failing companies. I signed the pledge because when we have historic levels of unemployment throughout the district, we cannot be overtaxing job creators that want to develop and expand domestic energy production here in Pennsylvania," Argall noted.
"The pledge might as well read, 'Dear Nancy Pelosi, don't raise my taxes no matter what your excuse is.' We cannot hope for the employers to begin hiring while the Democrats in Washington continue pushing for a cap and trade, or cap and tax, policy. This district possesses numerous energy resources. As your next Congressman, I will push for energy independence without tax increases as we look to create jobs here in the district," concluded Argall.
###
Winning Strategy: How Holden, Argall
Can Win Votes for U.S. House Seat
With 90 days until the Nov. 2 General Election, the strategies for incumbent congressman Democrat Tim Holden and his Republican challenger, state Sen. David Argall, are both simple and difficult, experts say.
Holden, D-17, must distance himself from unpopular Democratic leaders and their controversial policies, while reminding voters of the money he's brought home to his district and the powerful positions he holds on the transportation and agriculture committees.
Argall, R-29, must try to ride what political experts call "the big wave" - a high tide of conservative enthusiasm. To do that, he'll need more money, support from Tea Party voters and a megaphone to blare the message of fiscal responsibility.
Both hope for home-field advantage, and winning Schuylkill County is central to the strategy of each.
...continue »
For Immediate Release
July 27, 2010
Contact: Jon Hopcraft
570.622.1540
|
Holden's Campaign Coffers Still Dirty With Embattled
Rangel's Campaign Cash
Pennsylvania Dem Clings to $19,000 From the Notoriously Corrupt and Recently Charged Charlie Rangel
Washington- With the recent news that notoriously corrupt Charlie Rangel has been charged with violations by a House ethics panel, Democrats are bracing for big losses in November as their mounting corruption problem threatens their current majority. While some Democrats have fled from the embattled former Ways and Means Chairman and rid themselves of his tainted campaign cash, Tim Holden is still tightly clinging to $19,000 for his uphill re-election battle. And as Rangel's ethical lapses threaten to bring down the out-of-touch Democrat majority, it appears Holden will voluntarily be one of November's many casualties.
"Despite recent charges by the House Ethics Committee against notoriously corrupt Charlie Rangel, Tim Holden continues to hang on to his dirty campaign contributions," said NRCC Communications Director Ken Spain. "Holden's adamant refusal to relinquish the tainted money is evidence that he plans on standing by the embattled former Ways and Means Chairman as he prepares to face a jury of his peers. And now that any chance to convince voters that they will "drain the swamp' and "sweep corruption out of Washington' is gone, the out-of-touch Democrat majority will face angry voters and big losses in November's election."
"The news that New York Democratic Rep. Charlie Rangel violated House ethics rules and could be subject to a Congressional trial -- likely in September -- has party strategists panicked at what such a spectacle might do to an already difficult election climate for their side... The image of Rangel as symbolic of a broader out-of-touchness pervading Congress, which many voters believe to their core, is a dangerous one for Democrats."
"For a party trying to desperately to turn the election into a choice between the two parties rather than a referendum on President Obama and Democratic majorities in Congress, the Rangel allegations -- and his combative approach to fighting them -- is an unwelcome headache that could further complicate its efforts to keep the majority on Nov. 2." (Chris Cillizza, "Democrats' Charlie Rangel problem," Washington Post, 07/23/2010)
After hitting middle-class families with additional taxes over the past two years, the fact that the nation's chief tax writer may be found guilty of failing to report his own taxes is infuriating:
"The prospects of a public trial, perhaps beginning in September, are excruciating for Democrats. They won the House in 2006 in part by running against the corruption of GOP Members, and now one of their own barons is in the dock. The charges appear to be the kind that would cost any normal citizen a big fine if not jail time, and the spectacle of the nation's chief tax writer not reporting all of his income and half his assets will infuriate voters who know their own taxes are going up." ("The Rangel Standard," Wall Street Journal, Editorial, 07/24/2010)
Now, as Democrats quickly rid themselves of Rangel's tainted cash in hopes of distancing themselves from the corrupt former Ways and Means Chairman, will Holden be next?
"Rep. Betsy Markey's campaign is poised to donate $7,000 to charities if, as expected, fellow Rep. Charles Rangel formally faces ethics charges this week." (Robert Moore, "Markey ready to donate $7,000 linked to Rangel," Coloradoan, 7/27/2010)
"Rep. Kathy Dahlkemper (D-Pa.) said Monday that she will donate to charity $14,000 in contributions she received from beleaguered Rep. Charles Rangel (D-N.Y.)...Late Friday, Indiana Senate candidate and Rep. Brad Ellsworth (D) announced that he would donate to charity the $12,000 he received from Rangel." (Shane D'Aprile, "Following the Rangel cash," The Hill, 7/26/2010)
Paid for by the National Republican Congressional Committee and not authorized by any candidate or candidate's committee. http://www.nrcc.org
###
For Immediate Release
July 26, 2010
|
$574K Returned, but Holden Still Won't Cough Up Rangel's Tainted Campaign
Cash
Pennsylvania
Democrat Clings to Dirty Donations,
Tarnishes Himself with Toxic Rangel
Connection
Washington- Despite
the public accusations now levied against notoriously corrupt Democrat
Charlie Rangel for his numerous ethics problems, Tim Holden is still
holding on tightly to his dirty campaign contributions. While some fellow
Democrats have already called for Rangel's resignation and $574,000 in
campaign contributions have been returned, Holden has failed to follow
their lead. Instead, Holden has lined his campaign coffers with $19,000 in
dirty campaign cash – and so far appears to have no intentions of giving
back any of it.
“While
approximately $574,000 in Rangel contributions have already been returned,
it appears that Tim Holden has no problem with aligning himself with
Charlie Rangel and his notorious ethics problems," said NRCC Communications
Director Ken Spain. “Holden's refusal to cough up every penny of his
tainted $19,000 is a slap in the face to the Pennsylvania taxpayers who
voted him into office. Holden is clearly just a typical Washington
politician who is happy to fill his campaign account with dirty money while
refusing to hold his party accountable for their tarnished record."
| Democrat |
Rangel
Money Accepted |
Rangel Money
Returned |
| Adler |
$14,000 |
|
| Altmire |
$21,000 |
|
| Barrow |
$33,000 |
|
| Bean |
$
28,000 |
|
| Bishop
(GA) |
$
6,000 |
|
| Bishop
(NY) |
$
8,000 |
|
| Boccieri |
$
69,829 |
|
| Boswell |
$
53,000 |
|
| Boyd |
$
9,000 |
|
| Braley |
$
7,000 |
|
| Bright |
$
14,000 |
|
| Chandler |
$10,000 |
|
| Connolly |
$
7,000 |
|
| Costa |
$
2,000 |
|
| Davis (TN) |
$
8,000 |
|
| Driehaus |
$
12,000 |
|
| Edwards |
$
42,000 |
|
| Halvorson |
$
55,760 |
(only
returned $16,000 in direct contributions) |
| Heinrich |
$
12,000 |
|
| Higgins |
$
12,000 |
|
| Hill |
$
28,000 |
|
| Holden |
$
19,000 |
|
| Kagen |
$
21,000 |
|
| Kanjorski |
$
21,000 |
|
| Kissell |
$
23,000 |
(returned
$14,000) |
| Larsen |
$
24,000 |
|
| Maffei |
$
82,021 |
|
| Markey |
$
7,000 |
|
| Marshall |
$
29,000 |
|
| Massa |
$
74,000 |
|
| Matheson |
$
29,000 |
|
| McMahon |
$
70,383 |
(returned
$1,000) |
| Michaud |
$
12,000 |
|
| Minnick |
$
54,000 |
(returned
$10,000) |
| Murphy
(PA) |
$
19,000 |
|
| Perlmutter |
$
9,000 |
|
| Pomeroy |
$
30,000 |
|
| Rodriguez |
$
21,000 |
|
| Ross |
$
19,000 |
|
| Salazar |
$ 4,000 |
|
| Schrader |
$
7,000 |
|
| Seals |
$
55,000 |
(returned
$14,000) |
| Shuler |
$
14,000 |
|
| Spratt |
$
14,000 |
|
| Teague |
$
4,500 |
|
| Wu |
$
10,000 |
|
With
an already difficult election climate shaping up for Democrats, the
prospects of a public trial could wind up tarnishing Pelosi's Majority just
weeks before the November elections:
“The image of Rangel as symbolic of a
broader out-of-touchness pervading Congress, which many voters believe to
their core, is a dangerous one for Democrats... One Democratic consultant
described a Rangel trial as a "no-win situation' for House Democrats
running in competitive races... For a party trying to desperately to turn the
election into a choice between the two parties rather than a referendum on
President Obama and Democratic majorities in Congress, the Rangel
allegations -- and his combative approach to fighting them -- is an
unwelcome headache that could further complicate its efforts to keep the
majority on Nov. 2." (Chris Cillizza, “Democrats' Charlie Rangel problem," Washington Post, 07/23/2010)
In
yet another display of the Democrats' empty promises, it's clear that
Speaker Pelosi had little interest in dealing with Rangel's checkered past
before pledging to "drain the swamp' and "turn this Congress into the most
honest and open Congress in history.'
“"Drain the swamp' means to turn this Congress into the most
honest and open Congress in history. That's my pledge — that is what I
intend to do,' Pelosi stated in an interview with NBC's Brian
Williams." (Brian
Williams, “Rep. Pelosi poised to make history", NBC Nightly News with Brian
Williams, 11/08/2006)
###
For Immediate Release
July 22, 2010
Contact: Jon Hopcraft
570.622.1540
|
Holden Supporting Taxpayer Dollars to Failing Companies...Again
POTTSVILLE - By now it should be painfully obvious to all Americans that the Democratic Congress will stop at nothing to push through its agenda. Yesterday, President Obama signed into law the financial reform bill after a series of votes to bail out failed corporations with taxpayer money. Tim Holden and Nancy Pelosi have passed yet another bill that will dramatically alter the nature and practices of our financial system.
This piece of legislation legitimizes and encourages future bailouts of companies, rather than preventing them. The new regulations will allow the government takeover of any financial institution that is deemed to be "failing" by the government. In addition, the bill greatly expands the power of the Federal Reserve and the Treasury, giving them unprecedented and dangerous powers, far beyond those provided by the constitution. The bill also establishes an entirely new bureau to enact and oversee the new legislative mandates.
Dave Argall stated, "Instead of creating a bill that protects the nation from future financial crises, they've passed a bill that limits people's choices and opportunities while getting in the way of economic growth and job creation. This new law gives the government powers that the constitution does not grant them. Yet again, the Democrats have voted to ignore the Constitution, and Tim Holden has been right there with them. This latest vote shows just how out of touch Tim Holden is. Continuing to bail out these firms with taxpayers' money is not a solution for the prevention of future problems."
###
For Immediate Release
July 21, 2010
Contact: Jon Hopcraft
(570) 622 - 1540
|
Argall Signs Pledge to Repeal Death Tax
POTTSVILLE – Dave Argall, Republican nominee for Pennsylvania’s 17th District, has signed the Death Tax Repeal Pledge, vowing to the taxpayers that he will fight for limited government and allow the taxpayers to make decisions with their money, rather than redistribute private property, savings and investments of the taxpayers.
“In a time where our country has amassed unprecedented levels of debt due to out of control spending, it is basic common sense to repeal, once and for all, the death tax. For too long, our communities in central and eastern Pennsylvania have struggled to pass small businesses and family farms from generation to generation, and we need to help them keep those jobs in the district. I am signing this pledge to show the citizens of this district that I will fight to keep family-sustaining jobs here," stated Dave Argall.
“In rural communities throughout the five-county region, our farmers are hit hardest with the death tax. Our federal government is making it nearly impossible to pass a far from one generation to the next. I will lead the fight in Congress to see that we eliminate the agriculturecrushing death tax," continued Argall.
“As hardworking taxpayers are worried about their savings and investments, Congress should be eliminating frivolous taxes, like the death tax, that punish those who have done the right thing of saving and investing. Unfortunately, my opponent, Tim Holden, voted in favor to tax you more if you pass on a family business to a loved one (6/29/97, Roll Call vote #245). If we keep sending the same people to Washington to represent us, we can expect the same results: higher tax and more spending. We should be rewarding those who have played by the rules and been responsible; not continuing to feed the federal government to continue paying for unfunded entitlements," concluded Argall.
###
...See PDF »
For Immediate Release
June 29, 2010
Contact: Jon Hopcraft
(570) 622 - 1540
|
Argall Applauds Supreme Court Ruling on Second Amendment
POTTSVILLE - Dave Argall, Republican nominee for the 17th Congressional District, issued the following statement regarding the ruling on American's Second Amendment Rights by the Supreme Court.
"Yesterday's ruling by the Supreme Court is a win for all Americans. Our Second Amendment rights are quite clear and I am glad to see our nation's highest court agrees. There should not be particular areas where certain Constitutional rights are not granted or honored to American citizens. With the federal government continually overstepping its bounds through bailouts for Wall Street and corporations, along with funding the IRS to go after Americans who cannot afford ObamaCare, our Supreme Court gave a common sense ruling to protect our liberties as Americans. It is apparent to me that Congress can learn from the Supreme Court ruling; mainly that it is okay to stand on the side of Americans."
###
For Immediate Release:
Contact: NRCC Press Office
June 24, 2010 (202) 479-7070
Holden Backs ObamaCare Power Grab
Pennsylvania Dem Votes to Let IRS Go After Americans for Not Complying with Healthcare Takeover
Washington- Tim Holden cast yet another vote for more government and more spending today when he endorsed one of the most controversial provisions of his party’s healthcare takeover legislation. Given the opportunity to block federal funding to the Internal Revenue Service to enforce ObamaCare’s individual mandate requiring all Americans to purchase insurance coverage, Holden instead gave the green light for the federal government to enforce this constitutionally questionable provision (House Roll Call 385). Cutting this burdensome spending measure would save taxpayers between five and ten billion dollars:
“There are too many needed cuts to list, but this week, my YouCut proposal seeks to prohibit the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) from hiring thousands of additional agents and employees to implement the new government health care law—the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act—which would save taxpayers upwards of $5 to $10 billion over the next ten years." (Fred Upton, “Have your voices heard, YouCut America – and working together, we can cut spending," Daily Caller, 6/24/2010)
The controversial individual mandate is at the heart of the Democrats’ unpopular government takeover of healthcare, which continues to receive low marks from the American people thanks to its hefty price tag and broken promises. A recent NBC/Wall Street Journal poll found that a plurality of Americans disapprove of the legislation:
From what you have heard about Barack Obama's health care plan that was recently passed by Congress and signed into law by the President, do you think his plan is a good idea or a bad idea?
Total Good Idea: 40
Total Bad Idea: 44
(NBC News/Wall Street Journal Survey, 6/17-6/21, 2010)
“After constantly backing more government and more spending, it should sadly surprise no one that Tim Holden just gave the green light for the feds to target Americans for not complying with ObamaCare," said NRCC Communications Director Ken Spain. “The American people have repeatedly rejected the Democrats’ healthcare takeover, but Holden continues to walk the party line instead of standing up the people he is supposed to represent. With Americans already suffering under the burden of big government, Tim Holden continues to write his political obituary by backing his party’s wildly unpopular agenda."
###
For Immediate Release:
Contact: NRCC Press Office
June 24, 2010 (202) 479-7070
Americans Are Concerned About the Nation’s Budget, Why Isn’t Holden?
New Poll Indicates 63 Percent of Americans Troubled By the Democrats’ Out-of-Control Spending
Washington - According to a new NBC/Wall Street Journal poll, 63 percent of Americans are concerned about keeping the budget deficit down. With such a resounding majority of Americans clamoring to cut spending, this begs the question: Why isn’t Tim Holden? After rubber-stamping a failed trillion-dollar stimulus and billions more in wasteful spending, it’s painfully obvious that Holden is oblivious to how his constituents are being affected by the state of the nation’s economy. With the national debt at the highest level in history, Americans are calling on Holden and his Washington friends to finally create a budget and put an end to their wasteful runaway spending spree.
“Which of the following two statements comes closer to your point of view?
Statement A: The president and the Congress should worry more about boosting the economy even though
it may mean larger budget deficits now and in the future.
Statement B: The president and the Congress should worry more about keeping the budget deficit down,
even though it may mean it will take longer for the economy to recover.
Statement A/Worry more about boosting the economy .............. 34
Statement B/Worry more about keeping budget deficit down ..... 63
Depends (VOL) .......................................................................... - 3
Not sure ..................................................................................... 3
* Asked of one-half the respondents (FORM A)." * (NBC News/Wall Street Journal Survey, 6/21/2010)
After demonstrating their inability to govern, Americans are turning to Republicans for leadership:
“Some 45% said they preferred a Republican controlled Congress as the outcome of the 2010 midterm elections compared with 43% who said they preferred Democrats remain in control.
“That might not seem like such a big difference, but the numbers have been trending—slowly–in the GOP’s favor. There’s been a notable decline in support for a Democratic-controlled Congress in WSJ/NBC polls. In November 2008, the public preferred a Democratic Congress by a 12-point, 48%-36% margin. By January 2010, the parties tied at 41%. Now, the GOP is in the lead." (Susan Davis, “WSJ/NBC Poll: Voters Support GOP Takeover of Congress," Wall Street Journal, 6/23/2010)
“It’s time for Tim Holden to finally do his job and create a budget to rein in his party’s wasteful spending and restore the kind of fiscal discipline that is essential for job creation," said NRCC Communications Director Ken Spain. “After years of high unemployment and unchecked government spending, it is clear that Holden and his out-of-touch Washington friends are unfit to govern. And thanks to the Democrat majority’s inability to budget, struggling middle-class families will be stuck paying for the wasteful spending coming out of Washington. With 63 percent of Americans concerned with keeping the budget deficit down, why isn’t Holden?"
###
June 16, 2010
NRCC.org
Contact:
Press Office (202) 479-7070
|
Two Months and Counting: Holden Has Yet to Produce a Budget
Dems Plow Ahead With Big-Spending, Anti-Jobs Agenda, Ignore Need for Basic Budget
Washington - With two months passed since their April 15 deadline and still no budget produced by Washington Democrats, the majority in Congress continues to miss opportunities to rein in government spending and provide the fiscal discipline needed to create jobs and grow a healthy economy. Since the Congressional Budget Act was adopted in 1974, the House has never failed to pass a budget resolution, but Tim Holden and the current Democrat majority continue to forge ahead with their out-of-control spending spree and still no budget resolution in sight.
As the Democrats’ agenda of wasteful spending pushes our economy further into the red, many Democrats appear to be resolving the budget resolution issue by simply refusing to pass one at all:
“Facing the uncomfortable reality that the federal government's 2011 budget shows record levels of red ink, congressional Democrats may resolve the politically thorny situation by simply refusing to pass a budget resolution this election year.
“With voters in no mood to hear about Washington's $1.3-trillion deficit, some moderate and conservative Democrats say they would rather sit this one out. They have found common cause with liberal colleagues who don't want to pass spending cuts, especially while the economy is still struggling." (“Budget Woes? Just don’t pass one,"Los Angeles Times,, Lisa Mascaro, 5/22/2010)
In a year of anti-incumbent sentiments and a record deficit of $1.3 trillion, Democrats like Rep. Gerry Connolly (D-VA) worry that voting on a budget is a risky decision to make:
“"I'm not going to vote for anything with that magnitude [of deficit],’ said Rep. Gerald E. Connolly (D-Va.), a freshman running for reelection in the fall... "It's totally inside baseball.’" (“Budget Woes? Just don’t pass one," Los Angeles Times, Lisa Mascaro, 5/22/2010)
“With two months and counting since Tim Holden and his Washington friends promised the American public a responsible, honest budget, it’s no surprise that this has become another one of the Democrat party’s unfulfilled promises," said NRCC Communications Director Ken Spain. “The longer Holden and the rest of his party fail to pass a budget, the more they continue to dismiss opportunities to rein in runaway government spending and provide the fiscal discipline needed to create jobs. Instead of piling on to the record-breaking $13 trillion national debt with no budget to outline their spending, Democrats should be evaluating each government program in terms of whether it is worth forcing our children and grandchildren to pay for it."
###
Commentary: 'Major remodel' leaves
Republicans feeling invigorated
Renovation of the Pennsylvania Republican Party’s statewide headquarters in Harrisburg is complete. The Shaner Republican Center at 112 State St. stays true to its historic roots, but gives the GOP some new tools.
Maybe the new digs are a metaphor: Not so much a housecleaning, but a major remodeling...
...continue »
June 04, 2010
Contact: Press Office
(202) 479-7070
|
Despite False Spike, Holden's Jobs
Record Still Fails Pennsylvania Families
Census Jobs May Pad Numbers, But Economic Forecast Remains Bleak
Washington- A temporary boost in government hiring has padded jobs numbers for the month of May, but the 9.7 percent unemployment rate belies just how badly Tim Holden's anti-jobs spending agenda has failed Pennsylvania families. The spike in jobs is simply a reflection of over 410,000 new census workers being added to the government's payrolls at the taxpayers' expense. Tim Holden and his friends in Washington are sure to tout the short-term boost in unemployment as an economic success, but Pennsylvania families know better. While Democrats have been wasting taxpayer money and growing the size of government with spending sprees, bailouts, and government takeovers, Americans have yet to see the signs of real economic recovery. With the economy limping along, Pennsylvania families still want to know: Can Holden and his fellow Washington Democrats provide economic growth rather than temporary government jobs?
"Most of the jobs expected to have been generated in May were for census workers hired on a temporary basis by the federal government. ... By contrast, hiring by private employers - the backbone of the economy - may have slowed down a bit in May." (Jeannine Aversa, "Jobs data likely to show burst of temporary hiring," Associated Press, 6/02/2010)
As Democrats attempt to spin the short-term boost to jobs as a success, economists are saying otherwise. In fact, long term unemployment is the worst that has ever been recorded:
"The job market is improving, but one statistic presents a stark reminder of the challenges that remain: Nearly half of the unemployed - 45.9% - have been out of work longer than six months, more than at any time since the Labor Department began keeping track in 1948. (Sara Murray, "Chronic Joblessness Bites Deep," Wall Street Journal, 6/2/10)
The Democrats' unemployment problem is not going away anytime soon. Long term unemployment could turn into an even bigger problem, possibly creating a "pool of nearly permanently unemployed workers':
"The effects of long-term unemployment are likely to linger when the overall jobless rate falls toward normal, threatening to create a pool of nearly permanently unemployed workers, a condition once more common in Europe than in the U.S." (Sara Murray, "Chronic Joblessness Bites Deep," Wall Street Journal, 6/2/10)
"Tim Holden may attempt to sell this temporary boost in government hiring as a success, but no amount of spin can turn inflated jobs numbers into a real solution for a healthy economy," said NRCC Communications Director Ken Spain. "Pennsylvania families are becoming more and more frustrated with joblessness, but Holden and his fellow Democrats only continue to push big-government policies that do nothing but impede economic growth. If Holden can't stop his wasteful spending and finally start working on getting Pennsylvania taxpayers back to work, it's time for someone else to step in and do the job for his."
How much longer will Pennsylvania families have to ask: Where are the jobs?
###
Tuesday, June 01, 2010
Contact: Michael Barley
Press Release
|
PA GOP: Move Over White House,
Holden Offering Jobs To Opponents Too?
HARRISBURG – Republican Party of Pennsylvania Chairman Rob Gleason released the following statement regarding former 17th Congressional District Democratic candidate Sheila Dow-Ford’s recent accusation that a supporter of Congressman Tim Holden attempted to buy her out of the Democratic Primary Election.
“It’s becoming increasingly apparent that Tim Holden is taking his cues on how to engage in "Chicago-style’ politics from President Obama and other Washington "insiders’," Gleason said. “As we continue to press to learn more about the facts surrounding the White House’s efforts to get Joe Sestak out of the U.S. Senate race, we now learn that Tim Holden may have tried to bribe a political rival out of the Democratic Primary as he worries about his own political future.
“Pennsylvanians in the 17th Congressional District deserve far better than this type of politics. If this is true, it is amazing what lengths Tim Holden and his supporters will go to avoid campaigning and having to explain his poor record in D.C."
According to an article in the Lebanon Daily News, Holden’s Primary Election challenger on the Democratic side, Sheila Dow-Ford, alleged that one of his supporters offered her a job to drop out of the race.
“In addition to his unsuccessful challenge of her nominating petitions, she claimed a supporter of his offered her a selection of jobs to stay out of the race, and that people working on his behalf have fraudulently identified themselves as census workers in a bid to intimidate her supporters. The charges have been denied by Holden and his campaign." (Latimer, John, “Challenger says incumbent's hiding," Lebanon Daily News, 5/9/10)
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May 26, 2010
NRCC Office
Contact: Press Office
For Immediate Release
(202) 479-7070
|
Sound the Alarms:
Holden's Spending Drives Nation’s Debt to $13 Trillion
Washington- Today, the nation’s debt has reached an all-time high of $13 trillion sending shockwaves throughout the country with economists sounding the alarm. While most Americans realize the devastating implications of such a costly debt, Tim Holden and his Democrat friends remain unfazed. After repeatedly supporting his party’s runaway spending spree, Holden and his party leaders are responsible for paving the way for such an irresponsible feat. Instead of acknowledging that the government has a spending problem and outlining a blueprint for recovery, House Democrats have refused to draft a budget. Now, not only are Americans left without answers but they will also be forced to pick up the bill for the nation’s unchecked debt.
“The U.S. national debt hit $13 trillion today, a stratospheric number with looming implications for every citizen.
“With about 309 million people living in the U.S., the average American owns a $42,000 piece of debt — and the 110 million taxpayers owe an even larger chunk per person as the debt grows ever larger." (“National Debt Clock — Tracking the Red," Fox News, 5/26/2010)
Economists warn that the Democrats’ misguided approach of putting money into growing the government rather than the private sector is not sustainable and leading to the nation’s economic crisis.
“Paychecks from private business shrank to their smallest share of personal income in U.S. history during the first quarter of this year, a USA TODAY analysis of government data finds.
“At the same time, government-provided benefits — from Social Security, unemployment insurance, food stamps and other programs — rose to a record high during the first three months of 2010.Those records reflect a long-term trend accelerated by the recession and the federal stimulus program to counteract the downturn. The result is a major shift in the source of personal income from private wages to government programs."
“The trend is not sustainable, says University of Michigan economist Donald Grimes. Reason: The federal government depends on private wages to generate income taxes to pay for its ever-more-expensive programs. Government-generated income is taxed at lower rates or not at all, he says. "This is really important,’ Grimes says.’" (Dennis Cauchon, Private pay shrinks to historic lows as gov't payouts rise," USA Today, 5/26/2010)
“Tim Holden and his out-of-touch party leaders’ unchecked runaway spending spree continues to drive the nation’s debt further into the red," said NRCC Communications Director Ken Spain. “While economists and taxpayers throughout the country are sounding the alarms, Holden refuses to listen. Rather than drafting a budget and providing a blueprint for economic recovery, Washington Democrats continue to spend the nation further into debt on the taxpayer’s dime. After refusing to read the writing on the wall, Holden will be forced to bear the consequences of angry Pennsylvania voters who are tired of not having their voices heard."
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May 24, 2010
NRCC Office
Contact: Press Office
For Immediate Release
(202) 479-7070
|
Still No Budget from the Holden-Pelosi Democrats
Democrats Ducking for Cover as Majority Fails to Lead
Washington- As the nation’s economy continues to suffer from the drag created by the Democrats’ relentless spending agenda, Tim Holden and his friends in Washington still can’t get around to creating a budget for the upcoming fiscal year. One would think that with the country’s finances spiraling out of control, Holden and his colleagues in the Democrat majority would aim to provide a blueprint for economic recovery. Unfortunately for taxpayers, though, Democrats refuse to do the business of governing and will likely limp toward November without a budget in place:
“Facing the uncomfortable reality that the federal government's 2011 budget shows record levels of red ink, congressional Democrats may resolve the politically thorny situation by simply refusing to pass a budget resolution this election year.
“With voters in no mood to hear about Washington's $1.3-trillion deficit, some moderate and conservative Democrats say they would rather sit this one out. They have found common cause with liberal colleagues who don't want to pass spending cuts, especially while the economy is still struggling." (Lisa Mascaro, “Budget Woes? Just Don’t Pass One," Los Angeles Times, 5/22/10)
And now, fellow Democrats are running for cover, attempting to avoid political blame by making hollow calls for the party leaders they support to finally take action:
“Freshman House Democrats are pressing leaders to do a budget resolution this year even as senior Democrats lay the groundwork to skip it.
“Several of these freshmen face tough reelection campaigns this year and could benefit politically from passing an austere budget. Republican challengers have made the $13 trillion debt central to their argument against the Democratic majority." (Walter Alarkon, “Freshman House Dems Push Their Leaders to Approve Budget Resolution," The Hill, 5/22/10)
Even Democrat leaders have gone on the record to say that budgeting is one of the fundamental duties of a governing majority in Congress, but these same leaders are now turning a blind eye to the nation’s looming fiscal crisis:
In 2006, as Democrats were pushing to take control of the House and Republicans were hamstrung by their own budget woes, [Spratt] said: “If you can’t budget, you can’t govern." (Jonathan Allen, “Budget Looms Over Midterm Elections," Politico, 5/10/10)
“Boehner dug up an old quote from House Majority Leader Steny Hoyer (D-Md.) who previously said the "most basic responsibility of governing is to pass a budget.’" (Jake Sherman, “John Boehner Slams "Inability to Govern," Politico, 5/13/10)
“If Tim Holden can’t get his party leaders to get around to the business of governing, then he is failing the Pennsylvania families he was elected to represent," said NRCC Communications Director Ken Spain. “Taxpayers are buried under mountains of debt from the Democrats’ big-spending policies, but Holden and the radical party bosses he supports are too afraid of the political consequences to follow through on one of their most fundamental duties. With Pennsylvania families tightening their belts and trimming their own budgets, Holden and his Washington friends just can’t stop spending on the taxpayer dime – and they refuse to be up-front about where that money is going."
###
It's Argall vs. Holden in race for U.S. 17th District
State Sen. David Argall, R-29, of Lake Hauto, will challenge U.S. Rep. Tim Holden, D-17, of Saint Clair, in November, according to unofficial results from Tuesday's Primary Election.
Argall won a four-way race against Lebanon County military veteran Frank Ryan, Harrisburg businessman Josh First and retired Baptist minister Allen Griffith, Myerstown.
...continue »
May 19, 2010
LDNews
By JOHN LATIMER |
Argall to face Holden in U.S. 17th
Two of Schuylkill County's political heavyweights will face off in November for the 17th U.S. Congressional District seat.
Incumbent Democrat Tim Holden will run against Republican state Sen. Dave Argall to represent the district that includes all of Lebanon, Dauphin and Schuylkill counties and parts of Berks and Perry counties.
Argall, who has served in the state Legislature since 1984, won the GOP primary Tuesday in a four-candidate race by edging out Cornwall businessman Frank Ryan by an unofficial tally of 20,595 votes to 19,671 - a slim 32 percent to 31 percent margin. Finishing third with 14,900 votes was Harrisburg businessman Josh First. While retired Baptist minister Allen Griffith of Myerstown finished fourth with 8,388 votes. There were 369 write-in votes.
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May 13, 2010
Contact: Josh Wilson
For Immediate Release
(717) 234-5426
|
Argall's Candidacy Gains Momentum
Moving Into Primary Election
Argall Picks up Key Tea Party Endorsement
HARRISBURG – State Senator Dave Argall’s campaign for Congress is gaining momentum as it moves into the final stages leading up to the Primary Election.
“All across this state, and especially in the 17th Congressional District, people are fed up with the status quo," Argall said. “You can’t change Washington without changing your congressman. The American people want to see an end to the Democrat policies of corporate bailouts and special interest stimulus legislation."
Argall was recruited by hundreds of voters across the district to run for Congress because of his record of service and ability to beat the Democrat in the Fall. The Independence Hall Tea Party, the only federally registered tea party PAC in the tri-state region, recently joined local voters by announcing its endorsement for Argall. In its announcement the Tea Party indicated Argall was endorsed based upon his platform, credibility, and viability.
"We think all our endorsed candidates can win in November and you can be sure Nancy Pelosi will no longer be Speaker of the House," said the Tea Party's Vice President Bill Green.
"Our goal, of course, is to take back Congress," Independence Hall Tea Party Treasurer Chris Thompson added. "We hope to do so one election at a time."
Argall has also received an A rating from the NRA and signed the Taxpayer Protection Pledge to oppose efforts to raise taxes on individuals and job creators.
“I believe I am the right candidate to take on the Democrat candidate in the Fall and return this seat to its rightful owner—the voters of the District," concluded Argall. “Support from the Tea Party movement will be immensely helpful in that endeavor and I am happy to have their support."
# # #
May 10, 2010
Contact: Press Office
For Immediate Release
(202) 479-7070
|
Why Can’t Tim Holden and His Party Bosses Pass a Budget?
Democrats Likely to Go "Off the Books’
to Continue Job-Killing Spending Spree
Washington- As Democrats look for ways to continue their runaway spending agen
da, the political backlash may have finally caught up to them. Just a year after passing a $3.6 trillion budget, Tim Holden and his fellow Democrats look ready to punt on passing a budget for the upcoming year in order to avoid the hit of another round of votes for more spending, higher taxes, and a bigger deficit:
“If [Democrats] fail to pass a budget, they’ll be portrayed as ineffective. But there could also be peril for other politically vulnerable Democratic lawmakers if they are forced to vote on a blueprint that’s covered in red ink.
“The Senate Budget Committee’s version anticipates a deficit of nearly $1.3 trillion in fiscal 2011 – down a bit from the 2010 projection but an eye-popping figure nonetheless." (Jonathan Allen, “Budget looms over midterm elections," Politico, 5/10/10)
If Holden and his colleagues fail to pass a budget, it would mark a new low for this dysfunctional majority. The House has passed a budget every year since current budget rules were put into place:
"Skipping a budget resolution this year, a move House Democrats are considering, would be unprecedented.
“The House has never failed to pass an annual budget resolution since the current budget rules were put into place in 1974, according to a Congressional Research Service report." (Walter Alarkon, “House Has Passed Budget Resolution Every Year Since Budget Act, According to Study," The Hill, 4/14/10)
As the free-spending majority looks for political cover for its government spending spree, Democrats are finding their own words coming back to haunt them:
“In 2006, as Democrats were pushing to take control of the House and Republicans were hamstrung by their own budget woes, [Now-Chairman of the Budget Committee John Spratt (D-SC)] said: "If you can’t budget, you can’t govern.’ (Jonathan Allen, “Budget looms over midterm elections," Politico, 5/10/10)
“Tim Holden and his party bosses are running for political cover, but that doesn’t change their record of runaway spending at the expense of a healthy economy," said NRCC Communications Director Ken Spain. “Middle-class families are doing everything they can to tighten their belts, trim their own budgets, and spend responsibly during these difficult times. Holden is doing the exact opposite, and even worse, he refuses to be up-front about his party’s spending plans. While Americans are asking for less spending and more jobs, it looks like all Holden is interested in is hiding from the job-killing spending spree he continues to endorse."
###
May 4, 2010
LDNews
By JOHN LATIMER |
Argall Lone Political Veteran in GOP Race
Without polling numbers, it may be unfair to designate state Sen. Dave Argall as the front-runner in the four-man race for the Republican nomination to the 17th Congressional District seat. But by making him the focus of their criticism, there is little doubt his challengers view him as their primary rival.
...continue »
GOP Candidates for Area Congressional Seat Pledge to Control Spending
The only way to do that, said state Sen. David G. Argall, is for Republicans to regain control of Congress and turn House Speaker Nancy Pelosi into the minority leader.
...continue »
April 13, 2010
Contact: Josh Wilson
For Immediate Release
(717) 234-5426
|
Argall Celebrates Tax Freedom Day
Harrisburg - Amidst another year of big federal government spending, Pennsylvanians will celebrate a small victory on April 13th- Tax Freedom Day. This is the first day that the citizens of Pennsylvania will have paid all their state, local, and federal taxes and will begin earning money for their families.
"We are a country overburdened by taxes," said 17th Congressional District candidate Dave Argall. "Today, Pennsylvanians can finally enjoy the benefits of their hard work instead of feeding more failed federal government programs."
Argall has vocally opposed the big government spending spree being perpetrated in Washington by Congressman Tim Holden and his chosen leader Nancy Pelosi. Argall believes, as do many Americans, that out of control government spending will result in tax freedom day falling much later into the calendar year as Americans work harder for their government instead of their own families.
"Nancy Pelosi and Tim Holden's tax and spend policies have raised the unemployment rate, punished job creators, and back door taxed our middle class," added Argall who opposed the failed 1.5 trillion dollar stimulus."
The Democrat policies of prolific spending, government takeovers and higher taxes have had a chilling effect on job creation. More than 6 million jobs have been lost since Democrats took control of Congress three years ago. In addition, at least 2.7 million jobs have been lost since President Obama signed the stimulus bill pushed through by Congressman Holden, Speaker Pelosi and their allies in Congress. Making matters worse, Holden recently voted in favor of increasing the national debt by $1.9 trillion, bringing the total debt to $14.29 trillion. That vote will raise the new national debt limit to an equivalent of $46,304 for every U.S. resident.
"Tim Holden has blindly followed Speaker Pelosi and President Obama in passing the much maligned stimulus bill and bailing out Wall Street while Main Street America suffers from record unemployment and increased levels of under-employment," concluded Argall. "It is time to change the mindset of this Congress and to do that we have to change our congressman."
###
GOP Candidates Plan to Run on Repealing Health Care Reform Bill
Argall pulled no punches in bashing the bill Tuesday, not only promising to fight to repeal it, but alleging Democratic leaders "are lying through their teeth" about how much it will cost and what the results will be.
"If the public speaks out with a clear voice ... I believe this bill could be repealed," Argall said in a telephone interview. "(There is) the very real possibility this bill could increase unemployment ... it adds another level of complexity for employers."
...continue »
March 4, 2010
Contact: Josh Wilson
For Immediate Release
(717) 234-5426
|
Tim Holden Is Both For and Against Democrat Health Care Plan
Holden On Both Sides of Debate
Harrisburg - State Senator and Republican candidate for the 17th Congressional District Dave Argall today reminded voters that Congressman Tim Holden is on record as voting both for and against the government-run health care bill pushed through by Speaker Nancy Pelosi and President Barack Obama. Argall also noted that Tim Holden’s vote for Pelosi as Speaker has moved health care reform to the top of the Congressional agenda in Washington.
"I give Congressman Holden a lot of credit for working hard to be on both sides of this issue," said Argall. "However, he will ultimately have to answer why he voted with his party to bring the health care bill up the first time and why he voted for Nancy Pelosi as Speaker. A vote for Pelosi is a vote for Healthcare."
Argall pointed out that Holden made key procedural votes that allowed the Democrat’s first Obamacare bill to come to the floor and pass the House. The enactment of such a plan will kill jobs, cut Medicare, ration health care and raise taxes on the middle class. Equally troubling, the non-partisan Congressional Budget Office estimates that the Democrats' bill will cost $940 billion over the next 10 years.
"Unlike Tim Holden and Nancy Pelosi, I don’t believe that raising taxes on job creators, increasing the national debt and creating higher health care costs is the way to help America recover from this recession," concluded Argall. "It is time to change the Speaker of the House and to do that we have to change our congressman."
###
March 4, 2010
Contact: Josh Wilson
For Immediate Release
(717) 234-5426
|
Holden Receives F for Fiscal Irresponsibility
Tim Holden Scores 15 % on National Taxpayers Union's Rating of Congress
Harrisburg – According to the National Taxpayers Union current Congressman Tim Holden has received a 15% in 2009 for his support of bills that would raise taxes on job creators and working class families. In his 17 years of Congress Holden has received 14 F's, 2 D's and a C.
"He signed onto the biggest spending bill in American History last year," said Dave Argall, Republican candidate for Congress in the 17th District, referencing the 1.5 trillion dollar failed stimulus bill that caused unemployment to hit double digits. "My invitation is still open for Tim Holden to invite Nancy Pelosi to the 17th district to tell them why our unemployment numbers are still at historically high levels."
"Although Nancy Pelosi and Tim Holden have clung to the notion that the stimulus plan has preserved jobs, the people of this district are still frustrated by record unemployment and increased levels of under-employment," added Argall.
Argall's comments reflect the frustration and anger of the American people over the reckless government spending and the lack of results. Over 2.7 million jobs have been lost since the stimulus plan Holden supported was signed into law by President Obama. To supplement the massive stimulus spending plan, Holden recently voted in favor of increasing the national debt by $1.9 trillion, bringing the total debt to $14.29 trillion. That vote will raise the new national debt limit to an equivalent of $46,319 for every U.S. resident.
"Now is the time to cut taxes and reduce spending to spur the economy, not the time to spend recklessly on projects that are at best irresponsible," concluded Argall, also a part time public administration professor at Penn State Harrisburg. "We can't reward fiscal irresponsibility. If Tim Holden was in my class I'd give him and F too."
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February 5, 2009
Contact: Josh Wilson
For Immediate Release
(717) 234-5426
|
ARGALL WANTS ANSWERS ON FAILED STIMULUS PLAN
Indiana Democrat U.S. Senator Evan Bayh said this about various
stimulus and bail out plans
“If I could create one job in the private sector by helping to grow a business, that would be one more than Congress has created in the past six months."
HARRISBURG -- Yesterday marked the one year anniversary of the failed stimulus plan orchestrated by President Obama, Speaker Nancy Pelosi, and Congressman Tim Holden.
“Although Nancy Pelosi and Tim Holden have clung to the notion that the stimulus plan has preserved jobs, the people of this district are still frustrated by record unemployment and increased levels of under-employment," said Dave Argall, Republican candidate for Congress in the 17th District.
The overpromised, underdelivered stimulus bill that passed one year ago is part of a Democrat spending spree that is hindering job growth in Pennsylvania and across the country. Pelosi and Holden continue to believe that overspending and incurring more debt are the way to strengthen our economy.
“Tim Holden and Nancy Pelosi need to answer to the American people and the voters of the midstate as to why they spent almost a trillion dollars on a careless stimulus bill while our unemployment rate jumped from 7.5% to 9%," said Argall. “Like all of you, I am frustrated by the lack of results."
Dave Argall is emerging as a fresh voice for fiscal discipline in Pennsylvania. Dave has worked to create a State Cost Cutting Commission to identify additional cost saving measures in state government. Argall has a history of lowering taxes on working families and job creators and a history of votes that reduce government spending.
“Now is the time to cut taxes and reduce spending to spur the economy, not the time to spend recklessly on projects that are at best irresponsible," concluded Argall while referencing projects financed by stimulus funds that Holden supported like $1.57 million for researchers to search for fossils in Argentina.
###
ARGALL CHALLENGES INCUMBENT HOLDEN
TO BRING SPEAKER PELOSI TO 17th DISTRICT
HARRISBURG - As Democrats gather this weekend in Lancaster for their winter meeting and to "Roast and Toast" the tenure of Governor Ed Rendell, Senator David Argall is calling on Tim Holden to bring the weekend's guest speaker- Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi- out of Lancaster and into the 17th Congressional District-- the area the congressman refers to as, "his seat."
"Unfortunately, while the Democrat Party leaders raise a toast to their power, the voters of the district are the ones getting roasted by their reckless spending and blind effort to enact a government takeover of health care," said Argall. "At a time when families are struggling with paying their bills and the overall economy continues to suffer, I believe Tim Holden should encourage his party's leader to put down the champagne glass and come before the voters of the 17th Congressional District," added Argall.
Speaker Pelosi's visit comes on the heels of the positive Congressional vote, supported by Tim Holden, to raise the national debt by almost $2 trillion. That will bring the new national debt limit to an equivalent of $46,319 for every U.S. resident.
"I'm calling on my opponent to lead," Argall challenged. "I think Congressman Holden and Speaker Pelosi should explain why, after President Obama just recently asked for fiscal restraint during his State of the Union message, that they and the House majority voted yesterday to increase the national debt to $14.3 trillion."
"We are facing a tough economic recession, the worst many of us have seen in our lifetimes," added Argall. "Unemployment in the midstate just matched its highest mark in close to 30 years, so I ask my opponent to lead by holding a town-hall meeting with Speaker Pelosi prior to her departure and listen to the concerns of the people," Argall concluded.
# # #
Argall to Run for Congress
TAMAQUA - State Senator Dave Argall announced today that he will seek the Republican nomination for Congress in the 17th Congressional District. Senator Argall has been approached by numerous everyday citizens who are not pleased with the direction of this country.
"I have been proud to work with many of our friends and neighbors to revitalize our local neighborhoods and our downtowns," Argall stated. "However, after many months with little progress from our federal leaders in curbing job loss, increasing debt, and more importantly a lack of desire to improve our national security interests, I have agreed to do what people in many of those neighborhoods have asked me to do - I have decided to run for the United States Congress.
According to Argall, this country is suffering from massive unemployment numbers of over 10%, massive debt over $13 trillion, and massive uncertainty of how we are to protect our citizens.
"Working families can no longer afford to take their kids out on a Friday night, and quite frankly they can no longer afford to sit back and watch President Obama, Nancy Pelosi, and Tim Holden tear at the fabric of American values," Argall added. "This country is in real distress and it has been made clear to me by hundreds of people across the 17 th District that they want change and they want it now."
More simply, Argall explained his candidacy in these terms: "When Troy Sanders, a Pottsville trucker, was the first person to ask me to enter this race his message was very simple. Troy stated, "This area, this nation, is on the wrong track. Dave, we need to change Congress, but we can't change Congress if we don't change our Congressman."
Argall continued, "When more than 300 people joined a "Facebook" page to encourage me to run for Congress, and others began a "Draft Dave blog" with the same purpose I began to think more seriously about entering the race. Subsequently, more and more requests kept coming in, including one from my 19 year old daughter, Elise,"
"My final decision came down to appeals like this: In the 1960's Rudy Ghergel hiked for 3 days through the mountains to escape communism in Romania and Yugoslavia and come to the United States so that he could live as a free man. Had he been captured, he would have faced a very long prison sentence, or he could have been shot down at any time in cold blood during his escape. When someone like Rudy Ghergel looks me in the eye and reminds all of us that, in his words, 'In a democracy people are supposed to have a real choice for Congress,' I finally agreed to these continuing requests from Troy, Elise, Rudy, and so many others. Today, I pledge to all of you my very best, my all-out maximum effort, as a candidate dedicated to change the direction of our current Congress, "Argall explained.
"This candidacy is not about me, it is about the hard working men and women across this district--people who are struggling with rising gas prices, rising healthcare costs, and rising unemployment." Argall concluded. "This candidacy is about creating family sustaining jobs, creating a sense of well-being that currently does not exist, and most importantly creating an environment where workers are working and businesses are doing business."
Argall currently represents Schuylkill County and portions of Berks, Carbon, Lehigh, Northampton, and Monroe counties in the State Senate, and previously served in the Pennsylvania House of Representatives. His major emphasis in the General Assembly has been rewriting laws to revitalize small towns and cities, as well as an ongoing effort to eliminate the state's archaic school district property tax. As a local official, Senator Argall has a history of cutting taxes on working families and job creators.
Senator Argall earned a Ph.D. degree in public administration from Penn State and teaches an evening course at Penn State-Harrisburg in state government and leadership studies. A resident of Rush Township, Schuylkill County, Argall and his wife Beth have two children, AJ and Elise, both students at the University of Pennsylvania.
The 17th Congressional district is composed of Dauphin, Lebanon, and Schuylkill counties, and portions of Berks and Perry counties.
