It’s not just the presidential contenders who have to start campaigning two years prior to an election. I had a conversation this weekend with Tom Quinn, a Springfield Democrat who is planning his 2008 run against Bill Adolph in the PA-165.

Adolph is a ten-term legislator who represents Springfield, the home turf of the Delaware County Republican machine. He is also the Chairman of the PHEAA Board of Directors, which makes him a central figure in the latest flap over the extravagant expenses incurred by a public agency. In this period where most lawmakers are tripping over themselves to demonstrate their commitment to transparent governance, PHEAA spent 19 months in court trying to keep its expenses out of the public record.

It’s understandable that a challenger like Mr. Quinn would need to raise his name recognition and start his fundraising as early as possible. The era of never-ending election cycles is asking a lot from candidates. Frankly, it asks a lot of the electorate too.

I thank those who put themselves on the line while seeking to make government serve the public. If you would like to learn more about Tom Quinn, you can check out his web site. He also has an ActBlue page up if you’re willing to make a donation to his campaign.