D. Raja - An Unfortunate Appointment to the Board of PHEAA

I note with interest and concern that Governor Corbett has appointed entrepreneur and frequent candidate for political office D. Raja to the board of the Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency, citing the benefit his business experience will bring to the organization.

I believe that individuals that are placed in such prominent positions in public agencies should be those that have demonstrated the highest level of integrity and character.  Those traits were abandoned by Mr. Raja in his most recent campaign for State Senate against the individual that won the race, Matt Smith.

Among multiple mean-spirited distortions, "Friends of Raja" blatantly lied in a radio and television spot aired repeatedly, which alleged, "Matt Smith was a member of that Harrisburg gang that grabbed the pay raise (of 2005)".  In fact, Matt Smith was not a member of the General Assembly in 2005 and the pay raise was quickly rescinded. He grabbed nothing. Republican State Representative John Maher was a member in 2005 and voted for the pay raise.  I am betting that Mr. Raja would have no criticism for him simply because he has an 'R' after his name.

Some of us have long memories for dishonor that is perpetrated by candidates in an "anything to win" strategy.  Obviously, Governor Corbett forgives and forgets.