Gov. Shapiro makes final pitch for Democrats in Bucks County - WHYY

Gov. Shapiro makes final pitch for Democrats in Bucks County – WHYY

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Gov. Josh Shapiro made a final campaign stop in Doylestown, Bucks County, as part of his statewide effort to secure a second term and support Democratic candidates in Pennsylvania’s congressional and state legislative races. The event, held at the Bucks County Democratic Committee headquarters, focused on supporting Bob Harvie, a Democrat challenging Republican U.S. Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick in the 1st Congressional District.

Shapiro’s campaign has included stops in 29 counties, where he has supported candidates like Eileen Hartnett Albillar, a Democrat running against state Sen. Frank Farry, and state Sen. James Malone, who faces a Republican challenger. The governor reiterated Democratic priorities, including raising the minimum wage, codifying abortion rights, and investing in mass transit and housing. “How’s that trifecta sound, Bucks County?” he asked, referencing the party’s goal of achieving a majority in the state Senate and House alongside his own re-election.

Gov. Shapiro makes final pitch for Democrats in Bucks County - WHYY
Photo: inquirer.com

Harvie's Narrow Lead in Poll, Race Critical for Democrats

Harvie, a former high school teacher, narrowly leads Fitzpatrick in the 1st District, according to a recent Inquirer/New York Times/Siena University poll, with 48% to 46%. The margin is within the poll’s error range, but Democrats view the race as critical in a state where congressional control remains uncertain. Harvie’s campaign has focused on running against Fitzpatrick, who has distanced himself from President Donald Trump while maintaining strong ties to the GOP.

Fitzpatrick, who votes with Trump and the GOP about 70% of the time, has faced criticism from Democrats for his alignment with the party. Eugene DePasquale, chair of the Pennsylvania Democratic Party, dismissed Fitzpatrick’s claim of independence, calling him a “Halloween costume.” Meanwhile, Fitzpatrick’s campaign highlighted his record as the “#1 Most Independent Congressman,” noting his work in the Bipartisan Problem Solvers Caucus.

Voter Reactions and Political Rhetoric

Voters at the Doylestown rally expressed mixed views. Kevin Kane, a Bucks County businessman, said he now supports Democrats after previously voting Republican, citing concerns about the “criminal mob” in Washington. Sharon Mowen criticized Fitzpatrick for lacking independence, while nurse Deb Wiseman called him a “pseudo-moderate” who aligns with Republicans when it matters most. “I’m just sick of it,” she said, adding that many of her Republican friends are voting for Democrats due to Trump’s policies.

Shapiro’s remarks at the event included a call to action for voters to “stand up and make sure your voice is heard.” He also referenced his potential 2028 presidential run, though no formal announcement was made. The rally concluded with supporters chanting “Let’s go, Bob” and holding signs urging action on issues like “Cut prices. End the war.”

The 1st Congressional District race remains a key battleground as the November election approaches, with both parties intensifying efforts to sway voters in a district where Trump’s approval rating is 35%, the lowest among Pennsylvania’s four competitive Republican-held seats.

Worth a look

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