Would it shock you out of your complacency to note one particular legislator who made the news: Old Forge, PA, Rep. Jim Wansacz. Back in February or March, Wansacz circulated legislation to deny Philadelphia millions of dollars in economic development dollars unless we built casinos (with a non-denial by the Governor that he wouldn’t stop such legislation). The Inquirer then reported that Ed Snider, Foxwoods investor, made a cash donation to Snider’s Comcast PAC, which made a donation to Wansacz’s campaign. Wansacz, who is distantly removed from Philadelphia’s struggle, decides then that he needs to get vocal in what’s happening by threatening monies flowing here (http://www.philly.com/philly/news/local/43085157.html). Would you still yawn if it were noted that a number of Supreme Court Justices took money from the casino industry including current license holders?

And though the issue of slots parlors may not rile up some readers, the proposal to massively expand gambling – from table games to video poker machines at neighborhood bars – ought to raise eyebrows about who exactly is influencing those decisions and what they’re doing to influence it – because it’s certainly not due to public debate and studies.

The gambling industry is far from fun and games. And part of the reason that it’s been so successful at breeding complacency and done deal tactics is partly because their key influence strategy – under the table cash – is given a civic pass instead of targeted for elimination.

Common Cause is urging legislators to come clean about any and all gambling donations. With the elimination of a ban on gambling contributions, PA is a free for all state with consequences for all of its citizens.

I kid. And honestly, I can’t help but agree that it’s slime-ball tactics. But it’s the way it is. Maybe I’ve become too cynical, but I just don’t know why everyone seems so surprised.

I know, I know — if I’m not part of the solution…

Yeah, pretty much.

Sure he’s a pig — but he’s a damned politician, and a very good one. And anyway he’s our pig. Most states would kill for the kind of pork that Big Man Eddie can roll with.

The guy has his flaws, but he’s a force of nature — compare him with any Pa. governor of the last century, and then recall that he’s got huge national status and he’s got Philly’s back, big time, and always will. All that without even going into the entertainment factor.

I mean, please.

Anybody really surprised?