Brian Nutt Campaign Manager

Final Debate Gives Voters a Clear Choice

During last night’s debate Tom was clear and straightforward, “whether it’s a tax or a fee” he will not raise it if elected Governor.  He also reiterated his commitment to cut spending and reform Harrisburg ensuring Pennsylvania taxpayers are protected.

Unfortunately Dan continued to inaccurately attack Tom and even in some cases completely misrepresent his own record as County Executive.  It is sad to see just how desperate the Onorato campaign has become.

Dan continued his grand claims about his leadership in Allegheny County, but nothing could be further from the truth.  When Dan Onorato ran for Allegheny County executive in 2003, he promised a drop in spending and 10 percent tax cut.  Promise broken.

In reality, seven years later, the county budget has grown by 18 percent and the only change in tax rates came from Onorato's enactment of a 7% percent drink tax which has resulted in closed businesses and lost jobs.

Dan’s delusions of grandeur continued last night as he again tried to take credit for tax relief that took place before he even took office as county chief, and today Allegheny County residents face property taxes among the highest in the U.S. 

And while Dan has said he is against tax increases, last night he endorsed the idea of creative tax levies in order to help municipalities keep their budgets afloat. Onorato’s drink tax that destroyed small businesses would be a perfect example of that type of creative taxing.

Dan was right about one thing, Pennsylvania needs leadership…leadership that Tom Corbett has spent his career providing.  Tom Corbett has a record of taking on the big challenges and making the tough decisions, protecting Pennsylvanians and always doing what is right…even when it may not be popular. 

Last night's debate gave Pennsylvanians a clear choice, double talking Dan Onorato who is for taxes and Tom Corbett who will lead Pennsylvania to economic recovery, hold the line on taxes and increase job growth. 

Brian Nutt