Jared Solomon, who is seeking a rematch with state Rep. Mark Cohen (D-202nd dist.) in the April 26 primary, received more than $75,000 in contributions during 2015.
Solomon has over $53,000 cash on hand.
“I am proud of what my team and I have accomplished and I am looking forward to an even stronger showing in 2016,” he said. “I think the fact that over 75 percent of our donations are $250 or less in size is indicative of the widespread excitement around our campaign. I know that we are not going to leave anything on the table come April 26.”
Solomon has been endorsed by the Philadelphia Firefighters’ and Paramedics’ Union, Local 22, as well as Plumbers Union Local 690.
After having received no labor support during his 2014 campaign, Solomon has received donations from eight local unions.
“We are proud to endorse Jared for state representative,” said Andy Thomas, president of Local 22. “He is a proven leader and someone passionate about the well-being of his community. We need new leadership and we’re confident that he will fight for us when he is a state representative.”
An attorney and U.S. Army Reserve officer, Solomon founded the Take Back Your Neighborhood civic association.
In 2014, Cohen beat Solomon by 158 votes.
ull;•
State Rep. Martina White issued a statement following the attempted assassination of police officer Jesse Hartnett, allegedly by Edward Archer.
“It has been reported Edward Archer had pledged allegiance to ISIS. Mayor Kenney has said the incident has nothing to do with Islam. This is political correctness at its worst. We must chase down every lead and question everyone he has associated with to ensure the safety of the public. Ignoring any fact, including the shooter’s relationship with ISIS and his relationship with Islam, could lead to another officer or our citizens being attacked in the future,” she said.
“We need to recognize the culture that has been created. When our mayor makes our city a sanctuary city, he is telling people who are already breaking the law to come here and nothing will happen to you. Philadelphia will look the other way if we catch you. That type of philosophy will attract those who want to stay in the shadows. Kenney needs to wake up and realize his policies have serious repercussions on the citizens he represents.”
ull;•
U.S. Sen. Pat Toomey is also criticizing Mayor Jim Kenney’s decision to restore Philadelphia’s sanctuary city status.
“The city of Philadelphia has unfortunately decided to defy both federal law and common sense at the expense of keeping Pennsylvanians safe,” he said. “I strongly urge more Pennsylvania Democrats to call on Mayor Kenney to reconsider his decision to shield dangerous and violent criminals from federal authorities just because they are illegal immigrants.”
Former Gov. and Mayor Ed Rendell has voiced disapproval at Kenney’s actions. ••
