Candidates pull in endorsements

By GARY WECKSELBLATT
The Intelligencer

The candidates for the 8th District congressional seat continue to pile up endorsements.

Republican challenger Tom Manion received the backing this week of Military Families United, which represents Gold Star and Blue Star families.

Manion is part of a Gold Star family as his son Travis was killed in Iraq last year.

“I am so honored to receive the endorsement,” Manion said. “My family and the other Blue and Gold Star military families from across our country have a bond; a shared sacrifice and deep love for our country.”

Incumbent Congressman Patrick Murphy, a Democrat, received support this week from a somewhat surprising source, three Upper Bucks Republicans.

Kathy Babb, chairwoman of the Haycock supervisors, Nockamixon Supervisor Bruce Keyser and former Riegelsville Mayor Todd Myers announced they’re backing of Murphy.

“I am always working to bring Democrats and Republicans together to get things done for the families I represent and I am honored to receive the support of these well-respected Republican officials,” Murphy said in a press release.

Murphy, a veteran of the Iraq war who last week was endorsed by the Veterans of Foreign Wars, was lauded this week by Myers.

“I can say without hesitation that Patrick always puts politics aside to do what’s right for his constituents,” Myers said.

Brian Wise, executive director of Military Families United, said Manion “truly understands the sacrifice our troops are making. We thank him for standing strongly in their support.”

In an e-mail, John Ellsworth, the group’s president, said, “Tom Manion knows better than most how important it is to keep America safe, support our troops and work tirelessly for victory.”