13 QUESTIONS
Our “13 Questions” logo.
1. So now the hard work for Tom Wolf begins, how will he do?
I'm sure he'll do fine. But I think you are going to see a very analytical leader who is going to be very transformative in his methods. The GOP in Harrisburg is going to have to give him and themselves a chance to succeed. The state needs a break. As much as I loved Ed Rendell, the state doesn't need a showman but a person who can see well into the future.
2. I saw you on TV and was struck by how spot on you were on the Cipriani/Kaufer race. My question is this, I understand Kaufer asked you to moderate a debate, why didn't you?
In its 8 year history LuLac has hosted four public forums. Wilkes Barre City Council in 2007, Luzerne County's multi candidate Judicial Race in 2009 and then a Luzerne County Controllers forum in the spring and fall. They are hard to put together if you don't have a staff. Plus the entities that put them on had more reach than I can hope to have without having my full time job suffer. Mr. Kaufer did ask me as early as 2012 but it just never happened.
3. Have you seen that House map all in red?
Yes it is something. It is a sea of red with only the west coast in blue and parts of the east. It indicates that the GOP will control the House at least until 2025.
4. What do you think about Tom Wolf naming Katie McGinty as his Chief of staff?
Governor Elect Tom Wolf and his new Chief of Staff Katie McGinty. (Photo: Philly.com)
Not a shock. During the primary she did not attack him and ran on positive notes. In the fall effort she became a chair of his campaign and stumped the state for the ticket. She has run departments at the state level and can be his hub as he navigates the Capitol. Good pick. 5. What do you think of the "grants" the Lackawanna County Commissioners are giving to area communities in the Lac?
I think it is a good way to show taxpayers what they are getting for their money. Some call it politically motivated but good politics usually begets good government and vice versa. I like this approach.
6. Our of all of the Sunday morning news shows, which one is your favorite?
Good question. When David Brinkley had the This Week, that was my favorite. When Tim Russet had Meet the Press that was my number one. I've gravitated toward Face the Nation as a favorite the last few years since it went to an hour. I watch all of them, even Fox when I get the time. Usually I make the time.
7. What do you think of the NFL playing in London this season?
They are expanding their brand for sure. I like it because you get a chance to catch an early game.Almost, and I stress the word almost here, like living in California.
8. The big races in 2015?
Thanks for not asking about 2016 first. Wilkes Barre and Hazleton Mayoral, Luzerne County Council and Lackawanna County Commissioners. Not to mention the Luzerne County DA's race.
9. I thought you were right on point when you said the Democrats ran away from the President. But can or will he compromise?
Who knows at this point. I think the thing to watch is how the GOP leadership in the Senate can moderate the Tea Party people in the House. Immigration is going to be the starting point.
10. Favorite part of Thanksgiving?
The family, the drum stick, the NFL (maybe) and a four day weekend. Might even try for a 5 day weekend this year.
11. Why wasn’t the winner of the Lt. Governor’s office Mike Stack standing beside Tom Wolf on Election Night? I saw Jim Cawley with Governor Corbett.
Our friend Exeter Mayor Cassandra Coleman informed me that Stack was at a separate victory event in Philadelphia. I guess Cawley had no other place to go.
12. Best place to get a pumpkin pie for Thanksgiving?
The Sanitary in Nanticoke. Hands down. But place your order early. Tell them Yonki from LuLac sent you. It won't get you a discount but it'll give them a laugh.
13. How do you think Tom Corbett will go down in history?
For politics he will be the guy who broke that eight year cycle of administrations going from party to party. From a policy standpoint, he will be known as the Governor who couldn’t define his agenda and actually was unable to get his beliefs through with a majority in both houses.