Democratic Congressman Joe Hoeffel visited the offices of The Daily Herald during a senate campaign swing earlier this month which took him to Altoona and Ebensburg for two economic forums which have become a hallmark of his campaign to unseat incumbent U.S. Senator Arlen Specter.
The 13th Congressional District Representative offered a wide range of views during an interview in which he spoke about several economic issues and explained the differences between incumbent Senator Arlen Specter and himself.
Congressman Hoeffel is running unopposed for the Democratic nomination in the April primary while Specter is facing a challenge from Congressman Pat Toomey in the Republican primary.
“The economic forums give me a chance to talk to local leaders as well as labor and political leaders about important issues regarding the economy, jobs, healthcare and education,” said Hoeffel.
“This is a great way for me to introduce myself and hear from the residents of different areas. These are not structured events and we’ve been holding them in mid-size and smaller towns for the last couple of months.”
Hoeffel offered his views about the presidential race saying he originally supported Congressman Richard Gephardt but believes Senator John Kerry will make a strong opponent for President Bush.
“I think this will be a show down election and people are really fired up,” said Hoeffel.
In regard to Senator Specter, Hoeffel explained why he thinks the Senator is vulnerable as an incumbent this time around.
“He has lost his voice and he does not represent the views and values of Pennsylvania,” said Hoeffel.
“I think he’s supported reckless and radical policies involving tax cuts and a lack of spending restraint. We have seen a huge turnaround in our economic position. Surpluses have turned to deficits, government Borrowing is creating debt which will be have to paid for by our children and grandchildren.
“Senator Specter used to be thought of as a moderate maverick, now he is neither,” said Hoeffel. “He is pandering to the right wing due to the challenge he is facing in the Republican party from Congressman Toomey.
“I think I offer a clear alternative to change course and offer different policies and I think we need it,” said the congressman. “I decided to run because people are frustrated by these polices based on what I’ve heard from my constituents in the 13th District. Now, I’m also hearing the same from the people I’m meeting on the campaign trail.
Hoeffel serves on the International Relations Committee and supports what his senate campaign press office describes a vigorous role for the United States in international efforts to bring peace to the Middle East.
Hoeffel has consistently voted for anti-terrorism measures and voted to give President Bush authority to use military force in Afghanistan and Iraq. However, he also supported a broader international coalition against Saddam Hussein and criticized the unilateral polices of the Bush Administration.
“This is going to be a watershed election,” said Hoeffel. “My service as a congressman has been a wonderful privilege but I think there are even bigger challenges and being in the senate will allow me to do more.
The legislator has decided not to run for another congressional term while seeking the democratic nomination for United States Senator in Pennsylvania.
“It’s not easy and I really had to think about it,” said Hoeffel.
Congressman Hoeffel has represented the 13th Congressional District since 1998. The district is located in the eastern part on the state and includes Philadelphia and surrounding areas.
The 53-year-old is a life-long resident of Pennsylvania who served in the State House from 1977 to 1994. He served on the Montgomery County Board of Commissioners during the 90s prior to his election to Congress.
