Primary season is in full swing in Pennsylvania, with the Republican Party continuing to cannibalize itself as wealthy businessman Paul Mango attacks wealthy businessman Scott Wagner for being too liberal.
“How liberal is Scott Wagner?” the 30-second television ad begins. So “liberal,” the ad goes on to say, that Wagner, the party’s choice to take on Gov. Tom Wolf in November, supports equal protections for all Pennsylvanians in housing, employment and public services. Not discriminating against minorities has apparently become a liberal position for Mango.
“Wagner sponsored Harrisburg’s liberal bathroom bill, which lets anyone pick which gender bathroom they want to use. That puts our children’s safety and privacy in jeopardy,” continues the voiceover in the ad.
What’s really in jeopardy is Mango’s campaign. Throwing trans people under the bus is a handy way to get some quick media attention, but good luck getting votes with it. Both Mango and Wagner are polling 20 points behind Wolf. That’s because a majority of Pennsylvanians recognize that protections for everyone … protect everyone. Maybe you are not trans, but are you disabled? Unemployed? Female? Minority? A combination thereof?
Another reason Mango might want to reconsider attacking Wagner from the far right is that his campaign enjoys little grassroots support. Both candidates are largely self-funded. What we are learning in 2018 elections is that it’s more about ground game than who can buy the most ads. In other words, in a year when the state is being redistricted to more fairly represent the aggregate population, the total number of people who want you to represent them will matter.
When asked a question by a member of the public about the ad, Mango didn’t back down. “I’m glad you’re noticing the commercial,” he replied.
It might be entertaining to watch one Republican attack another if the issue at stake weren’t so serious. We have to stop electing rich, white men who look out for their own interests. This ad is a bellwether: Be vigilant or risk Gov. Paul Mango and his “family values” coming to get you.
How’s that for a scary ad?