All Dems in primary against Coleman stay in race, defying leaders’ straw poll move – Bucks Round-Up – February 3, 2026
All Dems in primary against Coleman stay in race, defying leaders’ straw poll move
The Bucks and Lehigh County Democratic committees attempted last weekend to avoid a State Senate primary early via a straw poll, but enough members of those groups resisted the idea that a three-way nomination contest will proceed. Party leaders wanted the informal vote to obviate the need for an intraparty contest, which some think could weaken the Democrats’ chances of unseating incumbent Republican Jarrett Coleman in November. Opponents of settling the nomination so early argued it wrongly excludes Democratic voters in favor of party elites. The straw poll was held, and the winner, Bradley Merkl-Gump, will run with the support of State Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-Doylestown). But Merkl-Gump will apparently still face Juan Vargas and Richlandtown Mayor Wayne Codner in the May 19 primary.
O’Keeffe to stand trial for just nine animal cruelty and neglect charges
A Wrightstown resident Abigail Tuttle O’Keeffe will stand trial for only nine of the 150 animal cruelty and neglect charges initially filed against her. Her remaining charges include one aggravated animal cruelty felony regarding the death of a goat, three misdemeanors, and five summary counts. The Narrow Way Farm owner, 54, was returned to from Belize to Bucks County in September to undergo court proceedings. In 2024, O’Keeffe, left her farm and animals — including goats, cattle, and pigs — to move to Central America. Newtown Township Police and the Bucks County SPCA found 124 sick or dying animals on the 37-acre farm and removed them. O’Keeffe is currently free on unsecured bail.
Bristol Borough continues to remove snow following recent storm
Snow removal remains an ongoing challenge across Bucks County following the recent winter storm, and Bristol Borough officials are signaling stricter enforcement ahead of future weather events. Borough Council President Ralph DiGuiseppe said public works crews performed “an outstanding job” under difficult conditions but were hampered in some areas by parked vehicles blocking access. In one case, a car left in an alley behind Pond Street on Jefferson Avenue prevented plows from fully clearing the roadway. Looking ahead, DiGuiseppe warned that vehicles left in plowing zones during future storms will be towed to ensure streets and alleys can be properly cleared. He added that borough crews have been working continuously, hauling snow to designated dumping areas including local ball fields and the Delaware River, and reminded residents that salt becomes ineffective during extreme cold. DiGuiseppe also urged the public to show more appreciation for borough staff, police, fire police, and plow operators who remain on duty during blizzard conditions despite criticism.
Perkasie PD offers pathway to help residents in crisis
The Perkasie Borough Police Department has launched a new tool aimed at helping residents connect vulnerable individuals with social services before situations escalate. The department’s new “Request for Social Services” form, available through its Crimewatch page, allows residents of Perkasie and Sellersville to submit concerns about individuals facing homelessness, substance abuse, mental health struggles, medical issues, or other serious challenges. Each request is reviewed by a licensed social worker serving as the department’s civilian community relations specialist, who determines whether direct outreach, a co-responder visit, or a referral to county or community agencies is appropriate. The service is voluntary and free, and individuals may decline assistance. Police stress the form is not monitored 24/7 and should not be used in emergencies, which still require calling 911.
Bucks residents vacationing by air will need Real ID, or face a fee
Bucks County residents planning air travel should take note of significant identification changes now moving toward full enforcement. As of February 1, 2026, travelers without a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license, passport, or other acceptable ID may be forced to rely on TSA ConfirmID, a new fee-based identity verification option costing $45 for a 10-day travel window. The process offers no guarantee of clearance and could result in missed flights and delays. AAA and TSA officials continue to urge travelers to upgrade to a REAL ID through PennDOT as soon as possible, noting that TSA PreCheck does not replace the need for proper identification. “Proper identification verification is essential to air travel safety,” said Jana Tidwell, manager of public and government affairs for AAA Club Alliance. “While TSA reports the vast majority of air travelers present acceptable identification like REAL IDs and passports, those who do not have these forms of identification are encouraged to schedule an appointment at their state DMV to update their ID as soon as possible to avoid long lines and potential travel delays upon arriving at the airport.”
Joe LeCompte hosts LeCompte in the Morning on WBCB 1490. Bradley Vasoli is the senior editor of The Independence.
