Larry Gillespie – 10/29/08

This page was last updated on October 30, 2008.

Experience matters in Harrisburg; Larry Gillespie; Beaver County Times; October 29, 2008.

Mr. Gillespie’s letters have a history of being fact challenged. Examples are here, here, and here.

Below is a detailed critique of the subject letter.

“It is the nature of the current atmosphere of local politics to say ‘change is better.’

“The reality of the matter is that by calling for change you actually play into the eastern part of the state’s strategy to ignore the western part of the state.

“Time of service is very heavily weighted to those who have been re-elected a number of times. Therefore, by electing new officials, you think you are helping the area, but by not taking the longer view, you’re actually hindering it.”

[RWC] Hmm, that wasn’t the position Mr. Gillespie took in 2006 when he opposed Melissa Hart in favor of Jason Altmire. Perhaps experience only matters in Harrisburg. <g>

“One case in point is state Rep. Vince Biancucci. He has worked hard for the people of this valley. From a new bridge on Kane Road to the development around the Beaver Valley Mall area, Biancucci has been there for us.”

[RWC] Even assuming what Mr. Gillespie claimed was true, why were state taxpayers stuck funding local responsibilities?

“He worked hard when he was a legislative assistant and continues to work hard as an elected official for all the constituents of the 15th District. He is a moving force on the Insurance Oversight Committee, where one of his biggest challenges is ensuring that the children of Beaver County have access to adequate health care.”

[RWC] Sorry, it is not government’s job to force taxpayers to pay for someone else’s healthcare. If what Mr. Gillespie asserts is true, this is one more reason to move Mr. Biancucci out.

“Even if his opponent did have a clue how state government works, it would take him years to move to a position where he could influence events. This area does not have years to waste.

“Biancucci has done the job well enough to be rewarded with another term.”

[RWC] If Mr. Biancucci and his predecessor (Nick Colafella) did such a great job, why are we in a position that pushes Mr. Gillespie to claim “this area does not have years to waste?”