By: Douglas M. Dvorchak, Murray, 2019 Chair of the Board – ABC Keystone

Politics has never been more divisive. It seems that finding any common ground is difficult in Harrisburg as well as in Washington, D.C. Luckily, ABC has champions in both locations that support our mission.

A few ABC Staff members as well as a couple of ABC members and myself had the pleasure of having dinner with Representative Scott Perry from the 10th Congressional District along with his Chief of Staff. Rep. Perry owned a mechanical contracting firm that provided maintenance services to municipal and investor-owned utilities, and he understands the trials and tribulations of the construction industry. Congressman Perry was inspiring as he told of the conflicts he encounters every day in Washington. It is hard to believe our government operates under such strife, but he continues to fight the battles he believes are worthwhile. He is a true believer in free enterprise and the pursuit of the American dream, and he carries the ABC flag proudly for all of us in Washington.

In our discussions with Congressman Perry, he noted that after his last election in 2018 he took a few days off from campaigning and started the process for the 2020 election right away. He and his staff reiterated the need for volunteers and to have grassroots efforts to help convey his message (as well as ABC’s) and deliver victory in the next election cycle.

I don’t think I have to tell anyone engaged in reading the ABC Keystone Merit Shop Spokesman that the 2020 election is crucial, and it is not too early to be planning for the upcoming year. Consider getting involved now to help promote and defend free enterprise. Donate your time and talents to one or more local race(s). I have heard from quite a few politicians that something as simple as putting a campaign sign in your yard goes a long way.

A simple way to get involved is by downloading the ABC Action App. The ABC Action App is an advanced advocacy tool that enables users to become a vital part of the ABC grassroots advocacy efforts and further the merit shop philosophy. This app allows you to correspond with your legislators on issues important to ABC with a couple of clicks on your phone.

Now is the time to grow our ABC’s Political Action Committee (PAC) dollars for the 2020 cycle. ABC’s PAC supports candidates whose voting records and/or platforms strengthen ABC’s mission to promote, protect and defend free enterprise in the construction industry. There are both State and Federal ABC PACs. Please visit ABC Keystone’s website or contact the Chapter office for additional information regarding ABC PAC as well as our independent expenditures funds: The Free Enterprise Alliance (National) and The Advancing the American Dream Fund (State).

It is hard to believe we are already in the midst of planning for the 2020 election cycle. We need to be prepared for the wild ride that will ensue next year.

I hope you enjoy Thanksgiving with family and friends.

Posted November 5, 2019