For Immediate Release
March 8, 2010

Doug Pike Proposes Positive Primary

Ardmore, PA - Doug Pike proposed today that the two candidates running for the Democratic nomination jointly agree to run positive primary campaigns.  Here is his statement:

"Today my campaign is proposing a positive campaign pledge for me and my Democratic primary opponent, Manan Trivedi.  I believe that either of us would be a welcome alternative to Congressman Jim Gerlach, and the best way to ensure that we finally turn this seat blue is to run a positive Democratic primary campaign."

"Recently, I noticed that Politicspa.com speculated that our primary could become one of the 'nastiest' primaries of the year.  That would be a real disservice to the Democratic Party because that sort of negative campaign would make it much harder for the nominee to topple Jim Gerlach."

"Both sides in this campaign have thrown some elbows in the past, but now that Jim Gerlach is back in the race with no primary opponent, we as Democrats both need to take a new approach. The entire point of running is not to beat each other, but to beat Jim Gerlach and turn the 6th District blue."

"If Manan will join me, I will pledge to do these seven things to run a stronger and more unifying Democratic primary campaign:

1) Focus my campaign on policy differences with Gerlach and the Republicans.
2) Discuss policy differences between myself and Manan in a respectful manner.
3) Never question Manan’s motivation or qualification to serve.
4) Never attack Manan’s character or family.
5) Never use Manan's name or likeness in paid campaign communications.
6) Make clear to my staff, volunteers and supporters that they must abide by these same guidelines.
7) Call Manan personally if I hear of an attack before responding."

"Washington needs more and better Democrats.  This is how it starts.  Let's go beat Jim Gerlach."

Doug Pike served on the Editorial Board of The Philadelphia Inquirer for 14 years, providing insight and analysis on a broad range of public policy for southeast Pennsylvania. He also served as President of a hospital for 10 years. Previously, Pike served as a Special Assistant and Speechwriter for U.S. Senator Paul Tsongas. In 1971, Pike graduated with honors from Princeton University. He resides in Tredyffrin Township, Chester County.

Contact: 610-896-2162, drew@pikeforcongress.com

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