Politics & Government

Former Gov Rendell Visits Plymouth Meeting B&N

Signs copies of new book and jokes with small crowd.

Supporters of Ed Rendell had a reason to brave the heat Saturday afternoon, as they had the opportunity to meet the former Pennsylvania Governor in the Plymouth Meeting .

Rendell was at the store for a book signing in promotion of his new title, "A Nation of Wusses: How America's Leaders Lost the Guts to Make Us Great."

A small crowd gathered near the front of the store ahead of Rendell's scheduled 2 p.m. arrival.

"I have to see Rendell because I really liked him and I like a lot of his policies, and the positive changes he made in Pennsylvania" said Mary Beth, a Conshohocken resident and former teacher.

"I thought he was a good leader," said Joanne, of Warminster. "He was always very interested in people and education, and what their views were."

Rendell arrived a few minutes early, wearing a blue suit jacket, a red, white and blue tie, and carrying a Dunkin' Donuts iced coffee that he sipped throughout the signing. An American flag-style pin adorned his left lapel-- a gift given to him shortly after 9/11, he told one attendee.

Rendell opened with a joke.

"I just wanted to say one quick thing: I was shocked when I went to the bathroom and saw a section for "teen paranormal romance," he quipped, to laughter.

Rendell then began to sign the books, taking time to speak with each individual and personalize their message, and also pose for pictures. At one point, a woman came back to Rendell after she couldn't make out part of his writing.

"Actually my handwriting is [bad], but my signature is very legible," Rendell joked.

Many of those in line said they were teachers and discussed the state of education. A few expressed their future hopes for Rendell.

"I wish he would run for vice president," one said. "He has to. As much as he says he's not-- he will."


Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.

We’ve removed the ability to reply as we work to make improvements. Learn more here