WILLIAMSPORT -- Talk about confusing.
A Democrat named John R. Moran, 65, of Williamsport, said Friday that he is intending to run against incumbent U.S. Congressman Tom Marino, R-10, Cogan Station, whose campaign is managed by a consulting group run by a Republican named John Moran.
Moran, the Democrat, is a former union representative and retired foreman at a manufacturing company. He said he was compelled to join the race while caring for his disabled son, a veteran.
"I heard all this talk about how Republicans wanted to deal with the deficit by cutting back programs," Moran said. "Is Congress really going to cut back on Medicaid and Medicare? I figured I have to stand up and do something to fight this."
Moran also wanted to do something about fracking, which he believes is adversely affecting the local waters and environment. "What's Marino been doing about these issues?" he asked. "What's he been doing about bringing jobs to the area? Companies relocate to areas where there is an educated workforce and where the environment is safe. But Marino's party wants to make cuts in education? It's insane to lay off teachers."
Looking at Marino's Congressional record made him laugh, Moran said. "What's he done? He has authored a bill, as yet unpassed, that would outlaw earmarks. One issue per bill. That's the best he can do, with our deficits and job losses in the region?"
It all comes down to fairness, he explained.
"I've been lucky in my life," Moran said. "I pay 30 percent of my income in taxes. The Republican front-runner is paying 14 percent and he's a multi-millionaire. The tax code has to be made more equitable and if I get to Congress, I'll fight for that."
But first he needs to collect 1,000 signatures by Feb. 14 from registered Democrats to get on the ballot. "I'm working on that," he said, but provided no further details.
Marino won't be easily defeated, Moran conceded. "I understand he has $200,000 in his war chest. If I can get on the ballot, I have people who said they would help me financially in the campaign."
Moran is the second Democrat this week to announce intentions to become the Democratic nominee for the 10th Congressional District.
On Tuesday, Phil Scollo, 56, a resident of Dingman Township, near Milford, said he also wanted to run against Marino. Like Moran, Scollo said, "People here need a choice," Scollo said. "Our representatives in Washington have lost touch with the needs of the people, and it's time for those of us who believe that to stand up and be heard."
