By Kerri Rafferty
Staff Writer

On Dec. 3, 2013, Ritchie Webb addressed the Neshaminy School Board for the last time, announcing his sudden resignation from his presidency, receiving a standing ovation from the meeting’s attendees. Webb now faces a very different reaction, as he has formally announced his intention to run for State Representative.

While Webb’s candidacy is surprising in and of itself, his decision to run as Democrat is confounding to most, since Webb has identified as a life-long Republican. Webb states that this is due to the Republican Party’s lack of an open primary process. Multiple other sources say that Webb’s choice was part of a strategic political move, as Republican Governor Tom Corbett has recently experienced a downturn in favorable opinions.

Incumbent Frank Farry addressed the announcement, stating he was “a little surprised” by Webb’s decision, although the representative of five years seemed confident in his ability to win both the primary and general election once again.

“It’s like being a freshman in high school,” Farry said, referring to entering the atmosphere in Harrisburg, “I’d like to think I’ve figured out the system as best as I can…Voters can see my track record; I’ve passed four bills in five years…I’ve brought government to the people…The votes will show in May, though, what people really think.”

Meanwhile, Webb told LevittownNow.com ,“It would be an easy win for [Farry].”

However, considering Lower Bucks’ history of strong Democratic voting, Webb could potentially appeal to a multitude of voters in the November general election if he takes the Democratic nomination in May.

A familiar name on the ballot will also assist Webb’s campaign. He was appointed to the school board in 2003 and was elected president in 2008 at the age of 54. Webb’s community involvement is as well-known as his name.

He is credited with leading the district through the five-year contract crisis, in addition to overseeing potential school consolidations within the district. If elected to office, Webb plans to continue addressing related issues, such as pension problems and the new earned income tax in Middletown Township, to which he is opposed.

“The budget is always a tough decision,” Farry said, addressing the pension funds and associated challenges. In previous years, Farry has voted to increase spending on public schools and has voted in favor of reforming cyber charter school expenditures, saving public schools, including Neshaminy, large sums of money.

He also serves on the Board of Trustees at Bucks County Community College and acts as Fire Chief of 14 years at the Langhorne-Middletown Township Fire Company.

Farry plans to continue being actively involved with previous legislation. He intends to concentrate on a transportation funding bill, which would improve local infrastructure, while also addressing the pension crisis.

Despite the candidates’ opposing views, both urged students 18 years or older to register and vote in the upcoming elections.

Only the votes counted on May 20 determine the decisive of the view of the public, with students being an influential portion of the electorate.