Southeastern Pennsylvania Political Action Committee of the National Organization for Women (SEPA NOWPAC) Announces PANOW Endorsement of Joe Hoeffel

NORRISTOWN, PA-On Thursday, March 11 the newly formed Southeastern Pennsylvania Political Action Committee of the National Organization for Women (SEPA NOWPAC) announced Pennsylvania NOW's Endorsement of Joe Hoeffel for Governor and their endorsement of several candidates for local and state office.

SEPA NOWPAC promotes a stronger grassroots presence for progressive, feminist issues by endorsing political candidates in support of our issues at the local regional level in Southeastern PA.

Voter rich southeastern PA is fast becoming the hub of progressive politics in the state. It is fertile ground for feminist organizing. SEPA NOW PAC was formed to recuit and support candidates committed to feminist issues and thus contribute to the growth of progessive, feminist politics in Southeastern PA.

“We are very aware that the people we elect in Southeastern PA don’t just affect their districts but the Delaware Valley region as a whole,” said President Helene Ratner. “It is our honor to announce our list of endorsed candidates and especially excited that PA NOW has endorsed Joe Hoeffel for Governor. Joe has a career of standing up for the rights of everyone and has been extremely supportive and active among Women’s and Pro-Choice groups for years. We know that he is the only candidate who will fight to maintain a woman’s right to choose and actively pursue equality for the thousands of LGBT voters in Pennsylvania.”

In response to the endorsement, Joe Hoeffel had this to say “I'm proud to have fought the fights I've fought throughout my career in public service to stand up for the rights of women, from fighting for economic empowerment, to protecting the right to choose. Together, with the support of Southeast PA NOW PAC, and Pennsylvania NOW, we will elect a progressive governor in Pennsylvania."

Among the other endorsees are State Senator LeAnna Washington, State Representative Vanessa Brown and State Senate candidate Ruth Damsker. “Whenever it is possible, NOW and our local PAC will be as supportive of Pro-Choice female candidates as possible” said Ratner. “I am very proud of the women we are endorsing today, for all of their accomplishments and look forward to them serving in our Legislature. We will also be endorsing more women this year and I am thrilled to see the list of women running for office, a more diverse government serves us best.”

From State Representative Vanessa Lowry Brown: "Of all endorsements that come my way, it gives me great sense of pride to receive the endorsement of Philadelphia NOWPAC and Southeastern Pensylvania NOWPAC. This endorsement has greater meaning to me because it takes place during March, "Women's History Month", and it recognizes the accomplishments and contributions women have made in our communities, in our families and in our work. My life's work of advocacy has been motivated by the 1966 NOW's Purpose Statement, especially the following passage, "WE BELIEVE THAT women will do most to create a new image of women by acting now, and by speaking out in behalf of their own equality, freedom, and human dignity."

State Senate candidate Ruth Damsker had this to add “As a lifelong public servant I have dedicated my career to helping those in need, especially women, children, and the elderly. I am eager to bring my experience and proven abilities to the daunting task of ending partisan gridlock in Harrisburg and finally giving Pennsylvanians the government they deserve. As a State Senator, I plan to focus my energy on economic revitalization, smart growth policies, property tax reform, ethics and campaign finance reform, and equal rights for all. I will continue to fight for a woman’s right to choose and the right for equal pay for equal work.”

SEPA NOW PAC includes the Philadelphia, Montgomery and Bucks County NOW chapters.