April 11, 2006
The Hotline Futures Market: Pennsylvania
What's the Hotline Futures Market? It's our exclusive look at the up-and-comers in every party in every state. You won't a list like this anywhere else. If you've missed a state, check out our archives.
It is the best of times for ... well, both parties. Dems have some great young candidates in Philadelphia and Pittsburgh while GOPers' up-and-comers are more spread out throughout the state. Most of our sources told us that, while there are many up-and-comers from Pittsburgh, it's becoming more and more difficult for those from the smaller media market to compete with better-known Philadelphia candidates. Then again, ask Sen. Rick Santorum (R), Treas. Bob Casey Jr. (D), ex-Gov. Tom Ridge (R) and ex-Sen. John Heinz (R) if being from Pittsburgh is a burden. We guess they'll say no. [REID WILSON]
The stars we've been watching since '03:
- State Sen. Jake Corman (R): Corman's from a well-respected, very accomplished political family, and he's got "a very bright future." He "has done very well for himself" in Harrisburg and is thought to have a good shot at leadership.
- Ex-State Rep. Jeff Coleman (R): After resigning his seat to open his own consulting shop, his first major client, ex-LG Bill Scranton, dropped out of the Gov race. "The jury is out on his future," as he has several high-profile challengers who could, as one source put it, vault him to the top of his field or make him seek refuge in another state.
- Northumberland Co. Controller Chuck Erdman (R): Had considered a State Sen bid in '04, although, being from a small county, he lacks a base. Nonetheless, he's "well-thought of" and may run in the future.
- Chester Co. Commis. Chair Carol Aichele (R): The former Controller is a "definite rising star" and is considered the front-runner for an open State Sen seat. Hers is "a path that others have traveled" on their way to higher office.
- Pittsburgh City Councilor Bill Peduto (D): He may be interested in higher office, but Pittsburgh is "a tough place to be from."
- State Rep./PA Dem Chair T.J. Rooney (D): After deciding against seeking re-election in '06, many believe he'll seek statewide office or go into the private sector to make his fortune.
- State Rep. Jennifer Mann (D): After losing a special election for State Sen in '05, her future is based on "a question of opportunities." Despite the plethora of Dems in her area, she's "still somebody who has a bright future."
- Ex-Lawrence Co. DA Matt Mangino (D): Ran for AG but dropped out before the primary. "I don't know if we'll see him again." He's now a legal correspondent for his local FOX affiliate.
- Allegheny Co. DA Stephen Zappala (D): He's "a natural." One could "make book that" he'd be appointed to replace Bob Casey (D) as Treas. "Likely to come up somewhere in a statewide election in the next 4 years."
And the stars to watch in the future:
- State Rep. Mike Turzai (R): Turzia tried to secure the PA GOP's endorsement for LG, and when it became clear he wouldn't get it, he withdrew "graciously and effectively." He significantly raised his statewide profile, and whether he runs for higher office or leadership, "you'll see his name in the future."
- Chester Co. GOP chair Skip Brion (R): After being one of the first Co. chairs to back Gov. candidate Lynn Swann (R), he's "one to watch," either in the party or in elective office.
- Bucks Co. Commis. Jim Cawley (R): Appointed after Rep. Mike Fitzpatrick (R) was elected to Congress, "he's got all the right stuff" to make a bid in the future.
- Glen Meakem (R): The self-made millionaire businessman from Pittsburgh considered a Gov bid before demurring. He will be "a player whether or not he wants to compete" himself. He's "charasmatic and presents himself well."
- State Rep. Josh Shapiro (D): An atty and former aide to Rendell from suburban Philadelphia, Shapiro is a prolific fundraiser. A "great guy" who "can definitely punch his own ticket."
- State Rep. Michael Gerber (D): The ex-UPenn football player won a seat in a district that leans GOP, and is "on the fast track." He and Shapiro are considered equals, and many consider them on the same path to stardom.
- State Rep. Jake Wheatley (D): "He's done very very well" in Harrisburg and will have a future in his native Pittsburgh. "I like his chances." "A good, solid guy."
- Allegheny Co. Exec. Daniel Onorato (D): In his early 40s, many expect Onorato to be the leading candidate for Gov in '10. Onorato previously served on the Pittsburgh City Council.
Posted at 02:13 PM
Comments
I recently had a letter published in the Pgh Trib accusing Mike Turzai of being one of Rendell's enablers. He was quick to respond to the editor with a letter slapping himself on the back about how he has a "leadership position" and his grand voting record. After viewing his website I came away with the conclusion that he is being groomed for D.C. He'll always make the correct republican vote. After this election cycle he'll claim he's needed in Washington
Denny Southern | 06.12.08 12:43 PM
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I recently had a letter published in the Pgh Trib accusing Mike Turzai of being one of Rendell's enablers. He was quick to respond to the editor with a letter slapping himself on the back about how he has a "leadership position" and his grand voting record. After viewing his website I came away with the conclusion that he is being groomed for D.C. He'll always make the correct republican vote. After this election cycle he'll claim he's needed in Washington
Denny Southern | 06.12.08 12:48 PM
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