JANESVILLE – At what is perhaps the biggest gathering of Democrats in Clearfield County, attendees had the chance to hear from three prominent Democratic politicians on Thursday afternoon at the annual Bud George Day picnic.
Fresh from their press conference in Clearfield earlier to announce funding for an ethanol plant in Clearfield County, Gov. Ed Rendell and state Rep. Camille “Bud” George, D-74 of Houtzdale, addressed the crowd, as did U.S. Senate hopeful and current Pennsylvania Treasurer Robert Casey Jr.
Casey perhaps has the biggest struggle of the three, as his opponent in the upcoming election is incumbent Republican Rick Santorum.
“So many people understand what this race will tell us about our country,” said Casey.
Casey touched on his campaign platform, attacked big oil, job outsourcing, social security and the war in Iraq.
Casey said the country needs fiscal responsibility, and a real war on terrorism. To that end, Casey called for an increase in special forces units.
“It’s not the path of least resistance, but the direction we must take,” said Casey.
Casey endorsed Rendell’s and George’s campaigns.
“We love him because of who he is and where he comes from,” Casey said of George.
Rendell touched on a variety of issues during his speech. Rendell informed the crowd of the $250 million ethanol plant planned for the county. He said that while there may have been beliefs when he ran for governor that he was a “city” man, in his term, Clearfield County has received $103 million in state money and projects.
He touched on lowering property taxes and expanding the PACE program.
He also endorsed George and Casey.
“You’re fortunate to have Bud represent you. There’s no one more persistent or difficult to say no to than Bud George,” said Rendell.
Of Casey, Rendell said he has been a great treasurer and will be a great U.S. Senator.
George’s speech was short and focused on two of the largest groups in Clearfield County, the senior citizens and the working class.
“It’s time we gave a little more concern to the senior citizen living on a fixed income,” said George.
“This is the class every one of us belonged to,” said George. “It’s time we take up this gambit for the middle class that’s been forgotten.”