Ex-Rendell aide talks politics

Race or party: Which factor will prove more important in Philadelphia's upcoming mayoral election? According to David L. Cohen, former chief of staff to Mayor Ed Rendell, party will win out, even though the race of the two candidates will likely have a large effect on voting patterns. Cohen spoke at the Law School yesterday in front of about 40 students in a discussion sponsored by the Penn Law Democrats, billed as an "Introduction to Philadelphia Politics." He spoke about his own political background, his perspective on Rendell and the upcoming mayoral race. The race pits former City Council President John Street, a Democrat, against Republican businessperson Sam Katz. Though Street remains heavily favored, Katz has proven in recent weeks that he will be a tough challenger. "John Street will, in the end, be elected mayor, but I think it will be a close race," Cohen said. Drawing upon historical evidence, he added that some white Democrats who would normally vote along party lines for Street may decide to cross over and vote for Katz because of issues of race. "If there is one factor that can break down party voting," Cohen stated, "it is racial voting." With that statement Cohen suggested that Philadelphia's ratio of nearly four registered Democrats for every Republican may not be as influential as it has been in leading every Democratic mayoral candidate to victory for 50 years. More than any other factor, race has been the strongest force in enabling Katz to draw a degree of bipartisan support, Cohen said. While Cohen said he thinks both Street and Katz are extremely qualified and prepared for the job, he described Street as "better able to deal with the political aspect of the job? simply out of experience." Introduced formally to Rendell in 1986, Cohen has since been involved in Philadelphia politics while continuing his law career. Stressing the fact that the two can go hand in hand, Cohen said that "it's been a great life for me and a great example of what you can do with a law degree." Since leaving City Hall in 1997, Cohen has headed the Center City law firm of Ballard Spahr Andrews and Ingersoll, where he practiced before working for Rendell. Cohen spoke of the legacy Rendell will leave behind as his term comes to an end this year. He praised his friend Rendell for "[bringing] a sense of honor back to government." Students said they found Cohen's speech interesting and enlightening. Teresa Lin, a second-year Law student, was "very impressed with his forthrightness" and his ability to speak frankly and honestly about the election. "Learning more about Philadelphia politics has encouraged me to get involved and register to vote in the city," she said. Harvetta Nero, a third-year Law student and one of the coordinators of the event, said that the speech had been very successful in "giving people a very good hands-on overview of what Philly politics are all about," particularly since many first-year Law students are new to the area.