A few people in the last couple days have asked me about my fairly cynical stance towards Governor Rendell, affectionately known in these parts as Fast Eddie. The truth is, there are some things I like about the guy, and some things I just can't stand.
I can't deny that he has always been a supporter of GLBTQ rights, and takes a positive stance for us on a number of issues. He generally does so quietly, but he still does so, which is more than you can say for some other politicians. And, there are a lot of other areas where I agree with his general ideas--the ends that I think he aims to reach. I did vote for the guy. For these reasons, whenever I mention him in a somewhat harsh light, a few people challenge me on it.
But, try as I might, I just can't get past a sort of smarmy salesman feel that I get from him. I may agree with a number of his ends, but his means give me the creeps half the time. In the recent budget/furlough situation, for example--do I think a lot of the issues he was trying to move forward are worthwhile? Certainly. Do I agree with how he and the Dems went about it? Certainly not. The whole slots issue has the feel of...I dunno...maybe not quite something so sinister as a pyramid scheme, but something close to it. "Free money! Reform property taxes! Bail out public transportation!" Has anyone else felt like they're buying a tonic off the back of a wagon? Step right up, folks--it's the cure for what ails ya.
He just has too much of a sleight of hand, slick grin, bait and switch feel about him for me to really be comfortable. I voted for him, I appreciate the support he has given the community, and I like a lot of the goals that he has. But I can't help but feel like I need to constantly check for my wallet.
-----Update, 7/18 2:21 PM-----
Of course, the day after I post this the guy's wife is in a car wreck. Sorry she got hit, glad she's OK, but I'm still checking for my wallet.
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