Bradley D. Inman – 11/3/06

This page was last updated on November 4, 2006.

Veon works for us; Bradley D. Inman; Beaver County Times; November 3, 2006.

Below is a detailed critique of the subject letter.

“In response to Jay Paisley’s Oct. 9 letter stating state Rep. Mike Veon is interested only in himself and not his district, I totally disagree.

“Here are some facts in areas Veon has sponsored and/or helped with:

“Pennsylvania’s budget has been balanced for the last four years.”

[RWC] Sorry, Mr. Inman, but the PA Constitution requires a balanced budget. No one of either party can take credit for a balanced commonwealth budget.

“Supported and was able to pass the new property tax/rent rebate expansion bill, giving up to $650 in relief for qualified seniors.

“Fought hard and long to get the minimum wage increased to $7.15.”

[RWC] I wonder if Mr. Inman can tell us whom the increase helps.

“Has continued to fight for economic development to create jobs, including the racetrack/casino along Route 51 in South Beaver Township. This will create tax relief and the development of land around the track. Development creates jobs and growth.”

[RWC] In case Mr. Inman missed it, “the racetrack/casino along Route 51 in South Beaver Township” was nixed a while back.

“The state’s unemployment rate is lower than the national average.”

[RWC] That’s wishful thinking on Mr. Inman’s part. In truth, the PA unemployment rate tracks pretty close to the national rate, usually within plus or minus a couple of tenths of a percent. For example, the September 2006 unemployment rate was 4.6% for both PA and the U.S. The national rate dropped to 4.4% in October and the PA rate hasn’t been reported yet.

For the sake of argument, let’s say PA’s unemployment rate was below the national average. Mr. Inman didn’t tell us what Mr. Veon’s contribution was.

“Helped to cut taxes while still increasing the amount of money given to our local school districts.”

[RWC] Cut what taxes? In case Mr. Inman missed it, the PA personal income tax went up a couple of years ago.

“Worked long and hard to make sure each child in his district and Pennsylvania has health insurance.

“Does this sound like a man who is interested only in himself? No. We must keep him in office to continue to work for us.”

[RWC] Who is “us,” people with their hands out?

“Without him in Harrisburg, we lose one of our strongest allies and supporters.”

[RWC] Who is “we,” liberals?