Harvie Rally Draws Crowds to Bristol Waterfront

Bucks County Commissioner Bob Harvie addressed supporters on the Bristol waterfront on Sunday morning, reinforcing his campaign message that every vote matters with nine days remaining until Election Day. The event took place near Lions Park, overlooking the Mill Street area, where hundreds of residents gathered for the Bristol Stroll.

Recent polling data indicates Harvie holds a two-point lead over his opponent, Brian Fitzpatrick. Despite the favorable numbers, campaign staff and attendees emphasized the need for continued effort, noting that the race remains competitive nationwide and locally.

Local singer-songwriter Don McCloskey, who is Harvie's second cousin, opened the rally with a musical set. McCloskey performed original songs, including 'Son of It All,' which references his family's working-class history in Bristol. He also sang a cover of Tom Petty's 'I Won't Back Down.' McCloskey has previously written the anthem 'Unstoppable' for the Philadelphia Phillies during their 2009 World Series run.

Bucks County Prothonotary Donna Petrecco spoke next, describing Harvie as a neighbor and colleague she has known for nearly 20 years. She highlighted his history as a teacher, Falls Township supervisor, and county commissioner. 'There's a big difference between being seen in a community and actually showing up for the people who live there,' Petrecco said. She urged the audience to contact five friends to encourage them to vote.

Sheriff Danny Ceisler addressed the crowd regarding the presence of paid operatives from the Fitzpatrick campaign. Ceisler noted that one operative was placing signs at the event while another, who is reportedly paid $5,000 a month, was recording the gathering. Ceisler jokingly deputized the attendees to maintain peace and instructed them not to engage in confrontations, keeping their focus on getting out the vote.

Bucks County Commissioner Diane Ellis Marseglia followed, praising Harvie's work ethic and understanding of the current political moment. She stated, 'This is the time for America to save America.' Harvie then took the stage, describing his opponent as reluctant to engage directly with constituents. He argued that after ten years, the district is ready for change and that his campaign relies on grassroots support rather than large donors.

McCloskey concluded the event by debuting a new campaign song titled 'Vote for Bob.' The upbeat, call-and-response number encouraged the crowd to chant along. As the rally ended, attendees dispersed toward Mill Street, while the Harvie campaign team departed for their next scheduled stop.