Area's incumbent congressman celebrates easy win

Democratic Congressman Chaka Fattah was celebrating his re-election last night, even though the victory came as no surprise. The congressman, who has represented the district that includes the University in the U.S. House of Representatives since 1994, felt confident enough in his assured victory to show up an hour late for his Center City celebration. Fattah's only opponent was Libertarian candidate Kenneth Krawchuck, whose presence in the race left Fattah basically unopposed. Fattah celebrated with other Philadelphia and Pennsylvania Democrats at the Wyndham Franklin Plaza Hotel last night, moving between his own private suites and the larger gala in one of the hotel's main ballrooms. "I am pleased to have an opportunity to go to Washington again," Fattah said. Although his win was expected, Fattah emphatically said, "I feel great!" This was not only in reference to his own triumph, but also to Gore's capture of Pennsylvania. "It's just a major victory," he said. "Gore depended on winning our state." "[Gore's] system of reform in education... has really created synergy amongst the voters," Fattah added. He could not overemphasize the importance of young voters in this election. "The party seems to have two out of three of the young voters," he said. Fattah attended Wharton and received his Master's degree from the Fel's Center of Government. Amongst campaign volunteers, Fattah's victory lacked individual importance, being primarily valued as part of what volunteers hoped would be a Democratic sweep. Campaign volunteer Charles Simmons said, "The education programs [Fattah] is working on will be successful, not only in Pennsylvania, but in the United States on the whole." However another volunteer was not so enthusiastic about Fattah. "He has a certain aloofness for a politician, which I do not like," said the volunteer, who asked to remain anonymous. But he added, "I believe there is a need for solidarity on issues such as the nation's youth, education and women's rights." He added that he believes Fattah provides that common ground. Penn students attending the function agreed that Fattah was a key Democrat in Pennsylvania. "Fattah is effectively bringing Democratic ideals and principles to Pennsylvania." College junior Blake Megdal said. College sophomore Jeffrey Millman agreed. "Fattah was really upbeat about the Democratic ticket, and always had faith in it." There were nearly 6,000 volunteers throughout the state, for the Pennsylvania Democratic Campaign -- including 3,000 from the Philadelphia area.