IN CASE YOU MISSED IT
Editorial Calls Out NRCC False And Distorting Ad
Bucks County Courier Times Confirms that Steve Santarsiero Doesn’t Accept Per-Diems
Key Point: “Among the positive points Santarsiero makes on his own ads is that he does not take so-called ‘per-diems’ — the flat, daily expense state lawmakers can claim for each day spent in Harrisburg. They don’t have to submit receipts to grab the expense money, so it’s a perk that can easily be taken advantage of. And many lawmakers do. Santarsiero isn’t one of them.”
ICYMI: Editorial: Fighting dirty – Bucks County Courier Times
We knew it would happen. We knew at some point the contest for the Eighth District congressional seat would turn into a dirty fight.
That’s something Republican Brian Fitzpatrick and Democrat Steve Santarsiero said they wouldn’t engage in. In fact, they signed a pledge to keep their campaigns positive. You might remember the story. It was published back in May.
To the candidates’ credit, they’ve been true to their word. Their TV ads and mailers have focused on themselves, touting their credentials, experience and personal histories. All positive stuff.
But now the final turn of the race is near and so the gloves are coming off. And, as best as we can tell, it’s the Republican National Committee throwing the punch. It comes in the form of a TV ad that essentially calls Santarsiero a liar and a thief. Can’t get much dirtier than that.
Among the positive points Santarsiero makes on his own ads is that he does not take so-called “per-diems” — the flat, daily expense state lawmakers can claim for each day spent in Harrisburg. They don’t have to submit receipts to grab the expense money, so it’s a perk that can easily be taken advantage of. And many lawmakers do. Santarsiero isn’t one of them.
Instead, the veteran state House member submits receipts only for actual expenses — mileage and hotels mostly. He is sparing in seeking reimbursement for expenses related to “official” business, which the Legislature generously doles out like it’s giving away other people’s money — which it is.
The NRC ad on behalf of Fitzpatrick says Santarsiero wasn’t honest about his practices and claims he’s collected some $50,000 in expense money. Santarsiero says that number might be accurate considering he’s been traveling to and sometimes staying in Harrisburg for eight years. But he says the ad blatantly misrepresents — and possibly “intentionally distorts” — the issue.
We think he’s right.
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