I, Gregory Crushong submit my name as an Independent, write-in candidate for Representative to the 13th Congressional District of Pennsylvania.
Very few of you will know me, and that is because I lack actual experience in the field of politics. However, it is clearly obvious that experience is meaningless today, as a number of recent and current politicians across the country exemplify this truth.
I put myself out there as a true representative to the people of this district as a member of the working class. I have done 40-hour weeks, 50-hour weeks, and for a stretch near-60-hour weeks with two of the most notable names in security: Dunbar and Brinks. Honesty is spoken of as a joke in politics, but honesty is an element of who I am. If you vote for me, I will take a stand on term limits for all members of Congress and to institute full disclosure on all non-profit and corporate donations to our elected representatives.
I would be foolish not to be aware of the history and legacy of Adams County to this country. It was in Gettysburg that the end of the Civil War began to shine with the blood of true patriots. Pennsylvania stayed loyal to the Union, but clearly, loyalty is an afterthought today. We have current politicians who are happy to spit on the service and legacy of Union soldiers or even cosplay as Confederate soldiers (not for reenactment). This district should have someone who is loyal to this country, to the history of Pennsylvania, and willing to call out insulting disloyalty.
Too much time, energy, and money is spent on meaningless culture wars that do nothing for anyone in this district, state, or nation. Instead of working to improve education and maybe provide students with basic skills they need in life (managing personal finances, adequate typing for the 21st century, and how to do a basic signature) we have parents and politicians screaming about Critical Race Theory, wokeness, and furries.
If we have concerns about the basic education and skill development for current students, how are they expected to be taught a collegiate-level theory? Wokeness is so ambiguous I am not even going to bother with it. As for furries that seem to be the hip, new bullying target for politicians this year, I am actually okay with the fandom since one of their largest conventions occurs here in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. If 10,000 people come here to Pennsylvania during the summer with money to burn, I’m all good with their support of the LGBTQ+ community and their fandom.
I stand opposite of John Joyce and acknowledge the fact that there is a mountain of work to be done and a multitude of threats to face.
From ‘global inflation’ that requires sound management of our economy. To an immigration policy where true reform is long overdue. Where sensible firearm reforms are truly needed as we learn on a constant reminder. To a planet that is screaming from the strain placed upon it. With threats to our elders in the form of Social Security cuts and high costs of medicine. Threats from more tax breaks to the ultra-wealthy and sitting members of our government. And threats to our “democratic republic” that exist externally and internally.
If you fill in the oval and on the blank line, write my name, I pledge to roll up my sleeves and work for this district. Many of you have trusted me without knowing who I am; I now ask you to trust who I actually am.
Politics is, at the end of the day, a game, but with very real consequences. So if you plan to vote early or on Election Day, November 8th, remember politics is what we choose to make it. I believe in our country, flag, and the ability for all of us to live a pro-choice lifestyle.