La Salle Poli-Sci Professor On Kenney: 'I Think He'll Have A Landslide Second Term'
By Chris Stigall
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- Now that Councilman Jim Kenney has won the Democratic primary in the race to become the mayor of Philadelphia, La Salle Political Science professor Dr. Mary Ellen Balchunis told Talk Radio 1210 WPHT morning host that she not only expects Kenney to win the election this November, but is already predicting a second term. She even compares him to a previous mayor and governor.
"I think he'll have a landslide second term. I think he'll be much like Ed Rendell…I see a lot of similarities between the two of them. I think they're both charming. They're both charismatic and of course Kenney has the advantage of going to La Salle. He is a La Salle grad."
While the official demographic breakdown has yet to be released, Stigall and Balchunis predict that Kenney's overwhelming success was in major part due to his support from the unions, much like Philadelphia judge Kevin Dougherty who won his primary to join the Pennsylvania Supreme Court.
"Both of them had a lot of union support and in a low turnout election, don't underestimate the power of the unions, but Kevin Dougherty can stand on his own. I know his brother is a big union leader, but Kevin has a really incredible resume. I really like what he stood for, helping foster children, helping with poverty. I think he's very impressive on his own. "
Though it has been since the 1940's that a Republican mayor has been in office in Philadelphia, Balchunis wants those who fall on the political right to not lose hope.
"There will be a candidate that comes up with strong credentials. I see these young people that are very passionate about the Republican Party. There will be leaders that will come up."
