Rendell Vows Property-Tax Hunger Strike
April 21, 2009 –
Pennsylvania Gov. Ed Rendell yesterday made a stunning announcement: that if state residents do not see a casino-related property-tax savings of at least $200 this year, he would go on a severe hunger strike. “The recession makes our tax-relief law more valuable than ever for our suffering families,” he said at a morning news conference from the State Capitol. “If our citizens do not get exactly what they need, I promise you: neither will I.”
 The husky governor went on to detail what, exactly, such a strike would entail: “If local school boards do not keep costs down—causing increases that would offset this relief—I will… I will stop ordering fried onions and peppers on my chicken cheesesteaks,” he said to audible gasps. He waited for the shocked murmurs to die down, then continued. “Likewise, I will limit myself to a 24-oz. Dr. Pepper with lunch—and only one Tastykake for dessert.” With a mixture of determination and apprehension evident on his face, Rendell added, “I vow to subject myself to this for as long as it will take for the message to sink in: Pennsylvanians need property-tax relief.”
Critics seemed to think that Rendell was not going far enough in his potential protest. “I know that it would be extremely difficult for the governor to forgo those delicious fried toppings—and especially his second and third dessert Krimpets,” said Allegheny tax-relief advocate Jerry Van Sciver. “But he said nothing about curtailments to any of his other meals. He wouldn’t exactly be in Gandhi territory.” Rendell, though, seemed to be bracing himself for a difficult road ahead. “In just a few hours, I will enjoy a deluxe cheesesteak with onions, peppers, and mushrooms—and a large blop of ketchup on the side, for dipping,” he said, a touch of sadness entering his voice. “It is my hope, for the sake of all Pennsylvanians—myself included—that it won’t be the last time.” |
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