Polls are open 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.
This Voters Guide may be taken into the voting booth.
FOR ELECTION INFORMATION: Contact your county Board of Elections. The League of Women Voters of Pennsylvania Citizen Information Center also provides election information. CALL TOLL FREE: 1-800-692-7281.
ABOUT THIS GUIDE: The material in this Guide was compiled by the League of Women Voters of Pennsylvania-Citizen Education Fund. This material may not be altered or reprinted without the permission of the League. Each candidate’s reply has been printed as submitted, except to use standard abbreviations and by editing from the bottom when a candidate’s reply exceeded the word limit. The candidates listed are those whose names appear on the ballot as of October 14, 2022. They are listed according to their ballot order. Additional information about judicial candidates and voter information including “Polling Place Lookup” can be found by going to www.vote411.org and typing in your address and zip code.
PURPOSE AND POLICY OF THE LEAGUE: The purpose of the League of Women Voters of Pennsylvania-Citizen Education Fund is to promote political responsibility through informed and active participation of citizens in government. The League is nonpartisan: it neither supports nor opposes any political parties or candidates. Nothing in this guide should be construed as an endorsement of any candidate by the League of Women Voters of Pennsylvania-Citizen Education Fund.
ABSENTEE VOTING: Registered voters who are ill, disabled, or will be absent from the municipality on Election Day may vote by absentee ballot. Completed applications for civilian absentee ballots must be received by the county Board of Elections by 5 p.m. November 1, 2022. Completed civilian absentee ballots must be received back at the Board of Elections by 8 p.m. on November 8, 2022. Last day for County Board of Elections to receive voted military and overseas absentee ballots (submitted for delivery no later than 11:59 p.m. on November 7, 2022) is Wednesday, November 15, 2022.
WRITE-IN VOTING: Information for write-in voting will be available at the polling place.
ELECTION DAY PROBLEMS: If your right to vote is challenged at the polls on Election Day and the problem cannot be resolved at the polling place, the judge of elections at the polling place should telephone the county Board of Elections. The problem could be resolved by phone if your name appears on the county records. If it does not and you want to try to resolve the problem, then you can go in person to the county Board of Elections where a judge from the Court of Common Pleas will be on duty to resolve election problems. Alternatively, you can ask for and vote by provisional ballot. If it is later determined that you were eligible to vote your ballot will be counted. You will be given instructions on how to determine if your vote was counted.
IDENTIFICATION REQUIREMENTS FOR NEW VOTERS: If you are a new voter or if you are voting at a polling place for the first time then you must bring your voter ID card or a photo ID such as a driver’s license, student ID or some other form of Federal or State government issued ID. Some forms of non-photo ID are also acceptable such as a firearm permit, current utility bill, bank statement, paycheck, or government check. If you do not have any acceptable ID then you must be allowed to vote by provisional ballot.
ON-LINE VOTERS GUIDE: The Voters Guide and other useful information for voters can be found on the League of Women Voters of Pennsylvania homepage: www.palwv.org
PENNSYLVANIA U.S. SENATOR
Term: 6 years
Salary: $174,000
(Vote for ONE)
JOB DESCRIPTION: The US Constitution prescribes that the Senate be composed of 100 members (two Senators from each state). One third of the total membership of the Senate is elected every two years. Senators must be at least 30 years of age, a citizen of the United States for at least nine years and be a resident of the State from which s/he is chosen at the time of the election. Senators write and vote in favor of or against final bills and serve on various policy committees. The Senate has several exclusive powers not granted to the House, including advice/consent on presidential nominations and treaties, and conducting the trial of federal officials impeached by the House.
Democratic
John Fetterman, Allegheny County
Campaign Website: http://johnfetterman.com/
Campaign Facebook URL: http://www.facebook.com/JohnFettermanPA
Campaign Twitter URL: http://twitter.com/JohnFetterman
Link to position on abortion: http://www.prochoiceamerica.org/2022/07/01/naral-pro-choice-america-endorses-john-fetterman-for-u-s-senate-in-pennsylvania/
Education: Albright College, B.S. 1991 University of Connecticut., M.B.A. 1993 Harvard University Kennedy School, M.P.P. 199
Occupation: Lieutenant Governor of Pennsylvania
Qualifications: Risk-Management Insurance Underwriter, Chubb & Son 1993-1994 Member, AmeriCorps 1995-1997 Program Coordinator, Braddock Out-Of-School Youth 2001-2007 Founder & President, Braddock Redux 2003-2017 Mayor of the Borough of Braddock, 2006-2019 Lieutenant Governor of Pennsylvania, 2019-Present.
Questions:
Q: What issue(s) would you prioritize, and how would you work with others in government to get legislation passed and signed into law?
A: Among my top issues are tackling income inequality and economic injustices; raising wages and benefits for working families; reforming the criminal justice system; codifying Roe v. Wade into federal law; passing anti-discrimination protections for the LGBTQ+ community; protecting and expanding the right to vote; and protecting and expanding the union way of life.
Q: What will you do in office to ensure all eligible voters have equal access to free and fair elections?
A: I would strongly support legislation in Congress, such as the John Lewis Voting Rights Act, the For the People Act, and the Freedom to Vote Act, which aim to expand voting rights. It is important that we make it easier for people to vote, eliminate dark money in politics, and knock down restrictions that marginalize voters, mostly voters of color. I would proudly eliminate the filibuster to do it. In the aftermath of the 2020 elections, I was removed from the floor of the PA state Senate after resisting Republican efforts to refuse to seat Senator Jim Brewster after he fairly won his election. We must enshrine the right to vote into federal law to stop Republicans from undermining it, and as Senator I will do everything to make that happen.
Q: What measures, regulations, or acts, if any, would you support to mitigate climate change?
A: Climate change is an existential threat, and we need to transition to clean energy as quickly as possible. I have never taken a dime from the fossil fuel industry, and I never will. It’s a totally false choice that we have to choose between jobs and a clean environment. We can have both, that’s why I am always going to fight for creating thousands upon thousands of good-paying green union jobs as we transition, all while increasing our energy independence. My plan for the transition to clean energy starts with immediate investments into research and development and innovation; expanding renewable energy sources; and ensuring clean transportation infrastructure; and investing in environmental justice measures.
Q: How do you view the role of the US in responding to challenges facing the international community?
A: I am very happy that President Biden is rebuilding the US’s standing in the international community after former President Trump damaged it so much. As a world leader, America must first and foremost ensure proper diplomatic relations, protect its allies, and engage in vigorous diplomacy across the globe. In addition, where there is a need, and to the extent that we can, America must help. That includes accepting refugees fleeing war in their countries, or providing humanitarian aid, military aid, and other support to countries like Ukraine that are defending themselves from attacks on their sovereignty by brutal dictators like Putin.
Republican
Mehmet Oz
Candidate did not respond.
Libertarian
Erik Gerhardt, Montgomery County
Campaign Website: http://erik4pa.com
Campaign Facebook URL: http://www.facebook.com/erik4pa
Campaign Twitter URL: http://twitter.com/erik4senate?t=S4tVUuPbGdYSsknEZDoWQ&s=09h
Link to position on abortion: http://twitter.com/erik4Senate/status/1555299114857938946?s=19
Education: High School Diploma
Occupation: Master Carpenter
Questions:
Q: What issue(s) would you prioritize, and how would you work with others in government to get legislation passed and signed into law?
A: The economy is my main issue. I would like to build small business incentives to grow the small business industry. I will work with both sides to accommodate my plans and start a true tri-partisan way forward.
Q: What will you do in office to ensure all eligible voters have equal access to free and fair elections?
A: I will back legislation that makes ID for voting and add in blockchain technologies to secure elections.
Q: What measures, regulations, or acts, if any, would you support to mitigate climate change?
A: I will not support bills that move away from free market capitalism.
Q: How do you view the role of the US in responding to challenges facing the international community?
A: We need to renegotiate NATO or flat out leave it as it serves no purpose.
Green
Richard L. Weiss, Allegheny County
Campaign Website: http://greenslate2022.com
Campaign Facebook URL: http://www.facebook.com/richard.weiss.1485537
Campaign Twitter URL: http://twitter.com/RichardLWeiss
Link to position on abortion: http://ivoterguide.com/candidate?elecK=778&raceK=11199&canK=56347&
Education: B.A. University of Pittsburgh; J.D. University of Denver; LL.M. America University; M.B.A. University of Chicago
Occupation: Lawyer
Qualifications: I am born and raised in Pennsylvania. My parents owned Weiss Bakery in the Brentwood Borough of Pittsburgh. My first job as an attorney was for the federal government in the General Counsel’s Office of the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) in Washington, D.C. and I have worked overseas.
Questions:
Q: What issue(s) would you prioritize, and how would you work with others in government to get legislation passed and signed into law?
A: The Covid-19 pandemic underlines the need for universal healthcare. Many who lose their job cannot afford to maintain their health insurance. In the modern gig economy, many do not receive health insurance through their employer. They may face the choice of paying for rent or healthcare, but not both. Current health insurance has too many deductibles, copays and limitations on coverage. Employers who provide healthcare will benefit from Medicare for All by having costs reduced. Employers who do not provide healthcare will benefit from Medicare for All by having healthier workers. Medicare for All costs less for better care. Also, Ranked Choice Voting eliminates any so-called “spoiler effect.” See ballotpedia.org/Ranked-choice_voting_(RCV).
Q: What will you do in office to ensure all eligible voters have equal access to free and fair elections?
A: Every citizen should be registered to vote at birth or be allowed to register on the spot at the polling station. If they do not have photo ID then there should be a fingerprint reader available and they should be allowed to vote after giving their fingerprint. The fingerprint readers can be connected nationwide and eliminate any chance of double voting. They should be allowed to vote first and any objections they are not entitled to vote could be filed after they vote first. Voting by mail should be allowed. Make Election Day a holiday. Paper ballots. Hand marked. On camera. The hand count on camera is the official count. Ballots on camera from the time they enter the polling place as blanks to the time they’re completely counted.
Q: What measures, regulations, or acts, if any, would you support to mitigate climate change?
A: The latest UN report on climate change underscores the need to immediately make all efforts to stop emissions of greenhouse gases. This can be accomplished through a “just transition” to renewable energy that provides jobs and does not cause cancer like mining and burning fossil fuels. The technology exists today. All we need to do is implement it. The first step is to halt fracking which is ruining the water and health of Pennsylvania. Fossil fuels provide fewer jobs which are temporary, produce more expensive energy, leave behind environmental disasters and cause cancer. Renewable energy provides more and permanent jobs, produces cheaper energy, preserves the environment, and doesn’t cause cancer. Cancer is a high tax to pay.
Q: How do you view the role of the US in responding to challenges facing the international community?
A: Negotiate peace in Ukraine, reduce overseas bases to pre-9/11 levels, bring troops home and spend that money at home. Climate change is the greatest national security threat. We should not be afraid of China and engage with them on an equal basis to reduce tensions. Stop funding terrorists and pass the Stop Arming Terrorists bill proposed by Tulsi Gabbard. The U.S. promoted radical Islamic fundamentalism in Afghanistan to fight against Russia, which was a violation of American values. Freedom of contract is a fundamental Constitutional right including the right not to purchase, i.e. boycott. Create a Palestinian state. End U.S. support for the war in Yemen. Transition to renewable energy as quickly as possible. www.GP.org/platform.
Keystone
Daniel Wassmer, Pike County
Campaign Website: http://www.wassmer4pa.com
Campaign Facebook URL: http://www.facebook.com/Wassmer4USSenate
Campaign Twitter URL: http://www.twitter.com/4wassmer
Link to position on abortion: http://www.wassmer4pa.com/about—my-positions
Education: BA, MBA, JD
Occupation: Attorney/College Professor
Qualifications: Former appointee to the DRJTBC, Assistant County Solicitor, Lecturer on Law, Government and International Business issues.
Questions:
Q: What issue(s) would you prioritize, and how would you work with others in government to get legislation passed and signed into law?
A: To list all of my major concerns would be virtually impossible nevertheless there are numerous issues that I have detailed on my website. Each is quite important to me. Simply prioritizing one over the other minimizes the importance and impact of a number of very important issues. So for the sake of avoiding a declaration that I am specifically focused on one issue as opposed to a variety of interrelated issues seems more appropriate to my approach. To deal with the plethora of issues I would have to work with other likeminded individuals and extend invitations to all who would be inclined to participate. Please visit my website to read more exacting responses to each inquiry in this questionnaire.
Q: What will you do in office to ensure all eligible voters have equal access to free and fair elections?
A: Suppressive behavior, long a problem in the US generally starts with a variety of fully constructed problems by the two major political parties. This has actually created an atmosphere ripe for “losers” to disparage results and seek to “mob”ilize any ideologue who will listen! The sad state of buying into the perception that any particular candidate is somehow their sole acting “savior” and the opponent is actually the “enemy” of democracy absolutely undermines the ideals we as US citizens ought to be striving for. Unfortunately both parties play this dangerous game and for quite some time have done so in a concerted fashion. To resolve “voting impediments” we need to have an honest discussion and create ease of access for voters.
Q: What measures, regulations, or acts, if any, would you support to mitigate climate change?
A: First we need a dialogue to convince even former environmental science majors such as myself that we actually are dealing with a real problem. As a student at one of the first “environmental science” universities in the US I was handed a theoretical paper known as the “Global 2000 report”. The report commissioned by the Carter administration had one of the first references to the theories of “acid rain” as well as “global warming’. For almost 40 years I have followed “the science” (empirical data) via actual reliable sources including: NASA, NOAA, various colleges and university studies and have asked pertinent questions related to this issue. To date these have not been satisfactorily answered. Remedies should not be potential harms.
Q: How do you view the role of the US in responding to challenges facing the international community?
A: I have listened to and follow the guidance of University of Chicago International policy Professor John Joseph Mearsheimer. Mearsheimer takes a realist view of international policy. While the US plays an important role in international leadership we also need to disconnect from having our international policy guided by the military industrial complex which often times pushes policy in the direction of improper interventionist fiascos. In addition I would note that a role of the US senate is to be engaged in advising and consenting to US treaties. I remain appalled at the leadership of both the republican and democratic parties at sidestepping those checks and balances and merely ruling by proclamation in the field of treaty making, etc..
PENNSYLVANIA GOVENOR
Term: 4 years
Salary: $213,026
(Vote for ONE)
JOB DESCRIPTION: The Governor is the chief executive officer of the Commonwealth, executing the laws of the state through Executive Agencies. A Governor must be at least 30 years old and have been a US citizen and resident of the state for seven years preceding the election. S/he manages the financial affairs of the state and must annually present a balanced budget to the General Assembly. The Governor has extensive appointive powers, may recommend legislation, and signs or vetoes bills passed by both houses of the General Assembly (subject to 2/3 override). S/he is Commander-in-Chief of the state National Guard, except when they are called into the actual service of the United States. The Governor can grant reprieves, pardons, and paroles. The holder of this office may only be reelected once.
Democratic
Josh Shapiro, Montgomery County
Campaign Website: http://joshshapiro.org
Campaign Facebook URL: http://www.facebook.com/JoshShapiroPA
Campaign Twitter URL: http://twitter.com/joshshapiropa
Education: University of Rochester, BA; Georgetown University Law Center, JD
Occupation: Attorney General of Pennsylvania
Qualifications: Whether as a State Rep., the leader of PA’s third-largest county, or Attorney General, I’ve brought people together to get things done. As Governor, I’ll continue to tackle the challenges facing Pennsylvanians and will move our Commonwealth forward.
Questions:
Q: What issue(s) would you prioritize, and how would you work with others in government to get legislation passed and signed into law?
A: As Governor, my top priorities are creating opportunity for Pennsylvania children by improving our education system, building a stronger economy by creating jobs, cutting taxes and lowering costs, and making our communities safer all across the Commonwealth. In order to move Pennsylvania forward and build a better future for our children, we must work together to achieve these key priorities. Throughout my career – and every day as Attorney General – I work hard to bring people together, solve problems, and get things done for Pennsylvania. As Governor, I will continue to do just that so that we can solve our biggest problems – because that’s how we will deliver results for people across our Commonwealth and move Pennsylvania forward.
Q: What changes, if any, would you support making to Pennsylvania’s voting laws?
A: Defending democracy is the foundation for making progress in Pennsylvania. I believe that if we want to grow our economy, improve our schools, and make our communities safer, then we need a stable democracy where all Pennsylvanians’ voices can be heard. As Governor, I will continue my work to ensure voters have access to the ballot box and that every legal vote is counted in every election. That’s why I released a ten-step plan to defend democracy, ensure access to the ballot, and improve our elections by appointing a pro-democracy Secretary of State, allowing counties to pre-canvass and cure ballots, establishing automatic voter registration and early in-person voting, and vetoing any attempt to restrict mail-in voting in Pennsylvania.
Q: Article 1, Section 27 of the PA constitution guarantees the rights of clean air, pure water, and the preservation of the environment. What actions would you take to protect these rights?
A: Throughout my entire career, I have worked to defend Pennsylvanians’ constitutional right to clean air and pure water – and as Governor, I will continue that work by investing in clean energy and clean transportation, adopting the 2020 Grand Jury Report recommendations to minimize health hazards arising from fracking, plugging orphaned and abandoned oil and gas wells, and addressing lead contamination in order to keep protecting Pennsylvania’s environment. As Governor my priority will be ensuring Pennsylvania has a comprehensive climate and energy policy that protects consumers, creates jobs, capitalizes on our strength as an energy hub, safeguards our environment, and moves our Commonwealth forward.
Q: There are several pieces of gun legislation being considered on comprehensive background checks, red flag laws, and firearm safety training. What is your position on these measures?
A: Every Pennsylvanian deserves to feel safe at home, at school, and in their community – and I know we can achieve that while upholding Pennsylvanians’ rights and traditions. Throughout my career, I have worked with my colleagues in law enforcement and with local communities across our Commonwealth to fight gun violence and keep Pennsylvanians safe, taking thousands of illegal guns off our streets, shutting down gun trafficking rings, and working to close the ghost gun loophole. As Governor, I will support common sense gun legislation to close background check loopholes, keep guns out of the hands of dangerous individuals, and work with the legislature to increase funding for gun safety training programs.
Republican
Douglas V. Mastriano, Franklin County
Campaign Website: http://doug4gov.com
Campaign Facebook URL: http://www.facebook.com/Fight4pa
Education: PhD, History; Masters Strategic Intelligence; Masters Airpower Theory; Masters Military Operational Art; Masters Strategic Studies, Bachelor of Arts, History
Occupation: Senator
Qualifications: 1986-Commissioned in the US Army, 2nd Armored Cavalry Regiment (2ACR) on the Iron Curtain, 2ACR Desert Storm in Iraq, Afghanistan (three deployments), Senior leader of NATO unit in Afghanistan comprised of 18 nations, Award winning author, Professor of Army War College (Carlisle)
Questions:
Q: What issue(s) would you prioritize, and how would you work with others in government to get legislation passed and signed into law?
A: Infrastructure, Energy Production, Road / Transportation Improvements, School Choice, the Right to Life
Q: What changes, if any, would you support making to Pennsylvania’s voting laws?
A: Voter ID, Poll Watcher Protection, Increased Penalties for violating voting law, Repeal Act 77
Q: Article 1, Section 27 of the PA constitution guarantees the rights of clean air, pure water, and the preservation of the environment. What actions would you take to protect these rights?
A: I’m an Eagle Scout and respect the environment – we are stewards of the land
Q: There are several pieces of gun legislation being considered on comprehensive background checks, red flag laws, and firearm safety training. What is your position on these measures?
A: Uphold the constitutional protections delineated in our state and federal constitutions
Q: Article 1, Section 27 of the PA constitution guarantees the rights of clean air, pure water, and the preservation of the environment. What actions would you take to protect these rights?
A: I have a strong track record of supporting our environment and natural resources, namely Pennsylvania’s landmark Growing Greener program. In June 2002, we doubled the funding to over a half billion dollars. In doing so, we’ve cleaned up abandoned mines; funded local parks and trails; expanded farmland preservation and protected some of Pennsylvania’s most beautiful open spaces. I believe we have a responsibility to be guardians of our natural resources.
Q: There are several pieces of gun legislation being considered on comprehensive background checks, red flag laws, and firearm safety training. What is your position on these measures?
A: Further gun control measures concentrate more power in the hands of government. If we go down the path of giving government more authority to decide who can and cannot possess a firearm, that’s a slippery slope that could seriously erode our Second Amendment rights. We all want safer streets and safer communities. Our prosecutors must be committed to prosecuting criminals who commit crimes with guns, not let them walk free like we’re seeing in Philadelphia with District Attorney Larry Krasner and his soft-on-crime mentality.
Libertarian
Matt Hackenburg, Northampton County
Campaign Website: http://www.matthackenburg.com
Campaign Facebook URL: http://www.facebook.com/MattHackenburgPA
Campaign Twitter URL: http://www.twitter.com/matthackenburg
Education: Rochester Institute of Technology; BS
Occupation: Avionics Computer Engineer
Qualifications: Former Commissioned Officer for the Army National Guard
Questions:
Q: What issue(s) would you prioritize, and how would you work with others in government to get legislation passed and signed into law?
A: The biggest reason why I am running for Governor is to promote and pass Defend the Guard legislation. As an anti-war National Guard veteran, this issue hits close to home. With talks of sending reinforcements to Taiwan if China were to invade and war hawks in D.C. clamoring to get the U.S. involved with the War in Ukraine, Defend the Guard needs passed now more than ever. This prevents the government from sending our state’s National Guard into conflicts without a declaration of war from Congress. They will not lose a single night of sleep for using our families and children as pawns to grandstand about “freedom and democracy”. I will make the humanitarian appeal with the legislature and work with both parties to get it passed.
Q: What changes, if any, would you support making to Pennsylvania’s voting laws?
A: We should change our elections to use alternative voting methods like ranked choice voting and repeal Act 77 for elections going forward. Act 77 is legally questionable and prone to being abused by people looking to buy your vote or breaching your privacy. It is worth reminding people that Doug Mastriano was one of the biggest supporters of Act 77 in the Pennsylvania Senate until Donald Trump decided he did not like it. Our current voting system is set up so that Democrats and Republicans never have to compete with third party candidates and perpetually use the “wasted vote” argument to brush off their challengers. With ranked choice voting, or similar alternatives, that concern no longer exists.
Q: Article 1, Section 27 of the PA constitution guarantees the rights of clean air, pure water, and the preservation of the environment. What actions would you take to protect these rights?
A: We should be treating pollution as a trespass violation, allowing people affected by polluters to issue court injunctions to shut them down, court orders to clean up our property, or imprisonment if they do not get off our property. I would not support the use of subsidies to prop up energy companies or allow the government to force its preferences onto the population like what California is doing with electric vehicles for example. If there is a demand for a clean environment, then a truly free market will meet that demand and we will all be better off.
Q: There are several pieces of gun legislation being considered on comprehensive background checks, red flag laws, and firearm safety training. What is your position on these measures?
A: The Pennsylvania Constitution states that ” The right of the citizens to bear arms in defense of themselves and the State shall not be questioned.” All gun control measures are illegitimate and I will veto every single one that passes the legislature, as well as repeal all of the gun controls we currently have now. I don’t believe the state should have any involvement in determining who can or cannot have a firearm. If someone is so dangerous that they can’t have a firearm, that person should not be out of prison.
Green
Christina DiGiulio, Chester County
Campaign Website: http://greenslate2022.com
Campaign Facebook URL: http://www.facebook.com/PKforPA
Campaign Twitter URL: http://www.twitter.com/PKforPA
Link to position on abortion: http://www.greenslate2022.com/platform
Education: BS Biology-Chemistry
Occupation: Scientist (analytical chemist)
Qualifications: Community watchdog and organizer, Research and Development scientist for ORISE, DoD & it’s contractors, USP. Contract Officer Representative and DoD Acquisition Certified, SPRDE -SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY MGR LEVEL 2
Questions:
Q: What issue(s) would you prioritize, and how would you work with others in government to get legislation passed and signed into law?
A: I agree with my running mates’ responses 100%. As a scientist, I know we must take immediate action to protect this and future generations. In Pennsylvania, I will advocate for the creation of an agency for a just equitable transition. I will call for a ban on all new fracking wells; a five-year decommissioning period for existing wells, a program to ensure proper capping of those wells; and reparations. To keep oil & gas companies, lobbyists, & those who profited equally accountable for the part they knowingly played, I will advocate for a required lifetime maintenance policy of their decommissioned & abandoned wells, including funding research into sustainable solutions for all wells.
Q: What changes, if any, would you support making to Pennsylvania’s voting laws?
A: I will work hard for the elimination of ballot access laws and rules that discriminate against smaller parties and independents, and otherwise place undue burden on the right of citizens to run for office. I will work to end partisan gerrymandering ensuring every Pennsylvanians’ vote counts, that all U.S. voting systems are verifiable, transparent, and accurate. I will prioritize enacting proportional representation voting systems for legislative seats on municipal, county, state, and federal levels, and provide full public financing of federal, state and local elections, and focus on equitable requirements in regard to public access for all candidates.
Q: Article 1, Section 27 of the PA constitution guarantees the rights of clean air, pure water, and the preservation of the environment. What actions would you take to protect these rights?
A: We need to act on climate now, actually, yesterday. Since we did not act earlier, we must act aggressively now. We must work to stop burning fossil fuels, eliminate greenhouse admissions by 95% by 2050, end all fossil subsidies, and redirect any research dollars to resiliency research. Qualified scientists must be the ones who guide policy. A scientist must not have any conflict of interest. Objective think tanks must be created to ensure the focus is on the health & safety the people, and the environment. There will be no more foxes in the hen house. The people will have more power at the table vs. industry. The think tanks will be comprised of the people, not the corporations with interest in profiting.
Q: There are several pieces of gun legislation being considered on comprehensive background checks, red flag laws, and firearm safety training. What is your position on these measures?
A: We need to address and heal the foundations of society. Gun violence is a systemic problem with multiple roots that need to be treated by “fixing” those roots instead of avoiding them. All people should have access to quality health care (including mental, dental, reproductive), quality education, and jobs. In addition, we need sensible gun laws, accountability for gun companies, mandatory training for gun owners, support for high quality gun violence research, & accountability for law enforcement officers & private security. We must treat gun violence as a public health emergency, We must start requiring psychological impact studies as a part of policy & legislation decisions, especially, in known injustice areas. Treatment for trauma.
Keystone
Joe Soloski, Centre County
Campaign Website: http://joesoloski.com
Campaign Facebook URL: http://www.facebook.com/joe.soloski
Campaign Twitter URL: http://twitter.com/joesoloski
Link to position on abortion: http://joesoloski.com
Education: Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Indiana University of Pennsylvania
Occupation: CPA (Retired)
Qualifications: Certified Public Accountant
Questions:
Q: What issue(s) would you prioritize, and how would you work with others in government to get legislation passed and signed into law?
A: Pennsylvania’s budget is bloated and mismanaged. Our operating budget has more than doubled, from $20 billion to over $41 billion in just 20 years. Pennsylvania doesn’t have a revenue problem; it’s got a spending problem! I will be working to cut our state budget by at least 5% per year, starting with my own salary. Pennsylvania has the 3rd highest paid Governor in the Nation; over $205,000 per year. I’ll be cutting my salary by 65% to just under $70,000 per year. I’ll be leading by example. If the Legislature doesn’t go along with my budget cuts, then I’ll veto every budget bill they put on my desk. We have the highest paid Legislature in the Nation and I’ll be working to slash their pay, benefits, and ban them from receiving gifts.
Q: What changes, if any, would you support making to Pennsylvania’s voting laws?
A: Every Pennsylvanian who wants to vote should have the best and easiest opportunity to do so. I will work to see changes made that will allow independent, third parties to be on the ballot. The Democrats and Republicans do all that they can to make laws and rules to prevent third party competition. Also, like Maine and Alaska, I will be working to see Ranked Choice Voting implemented here in Pennsylvania. That will give voters a better bang for their buck when it comes to their vote. Because of that, better representatives will be elected. I’m also a big advocate for term limits for our state legislators. Implementing Ranked Choice Voting and Legislative term limits will be extremely popular with Pennsylvania voters.
Q: Article 1, Section 27 of the PA constitution guarantees the rights of clean air, pure water, and the preservation of the environment. What actions would you take to protect these rights?
A: As Governor, I will charge the Department of Conservation & Natural Resources to continue its work to manage, preserve, and conserve our state parks, and I will enforce regulations to preserve our air, water, and our environment. Nuclear energy is the cleanest, safest, and most cost-effective form of energy generation that we have. I will work to promote and streamline the process of getting more nuclear power plants constructed and online. Renewables, like solar panels and windmills, face difficult and costly disposal problems at the end of their useful lives. That’s a growing environmental hazard. At the same time, those renewables cannot be relied upon to provide the necessary energy to meet market demands.
Q: There are several pieces of gun legislation being considered on comprehensive background checks, red flag laws, and firearm safety training. What is your position on these measures?
A: As stated in the Pennsylvania Constitution: “The right of the citizens to bear arms in defense of themselves and the State shall not be questioned”. I think that our Constitution is pretty clear on this issue. “Shall not be questioned”. I am in complete agreement. I will always defend our inherent right to defend ourselves. As Governor, I will veto any bill that attempts to curtail our right to own a gun and to defend ourselves and our families. More specifically, I want to see Pennsylvania become a ‘Constitutional Carry state’. You won’t hear that from any of my gubernatorial challengers. Red flag laws are a very slippery slope and I oppose them. Firearm safety classes are readily available and should be promoted.
PENNSYLVANIA LIEUTENANT GOVENOR
Term: 4years
Salary: $178,940
(Vote for ONE)
JOB DESCRIPTION: The Lieutenant Governor will be elected jointly with the Governor in the General Election although candidates are nominated separately in the Primary. A Lieutenant Governor must be at least 30 years old and have been a US citizen and resident of the state for seven years preceding the election. S/he is President of the Senate, presiding over the Senate but having no vote unless the Senate is equally divided. S/he is Chair of the Board of Pardons and the PA Emergency Management Council. The PA Constitution provides that in case of the death, conviction or impeachment, failure to qualify, resignation, or other disability of the Governor, the powers, duties, and compensation of the office shall be transferred to the Lieutenant Governor for the remainder of the term or until the disability is removed. There are no term limits to this office.
Democratic
Austin Davis, Allegheny County
Campaign Website: http://www.shapirodavis.org
Campaign Facebook URL: http://www.facebook.com/AustinDavisPA
Campaign Twitter URL: http://twitter.com/AustinDavisPA
Education: Bachelor’s Degree in Political Science from the University of Pittsburgh
Occupation: State Representative
Qualifications: Austin Davis is currently a PA State Representative where he serves as Chair of the Allegheny County House Democratic Delegation and Vice Chair of the House Democratic Policy Committee. Previously, Austin served as Senior Advisor to Allegheny County Executive Rich Fitzgerald for 6 years.
Questions:
Q: What issue(s) would you prioritize, and how would you work with others in government to get legislation passed and signed into law?
A: The issues I plan to prioritize as Lt. Governor are working to create family sustaining jobs, building ladders of opportunity for folks to help them succeed, and ensuring every child receives a quality education, regardless of their zip code. I have a track record of getting things done as a State Representative, and I will continue to use my platform as Lt. Governor to push these issues forward.
Q: What changes, if any, would you support making to Pennsylvania’s voting laws?
A: The right to vote is sacred, held by all Pennsylvanians, and I will always work to strengthen that right for every member of our Commonwealth. I believe expanding access to democracy is always the right thing to do and I would support measures such as automatic voter registration to do this.
Q: Article 1, Section 27 of the PA constitution guarantees the rights of clean air, pure water, and the preservation of the environment. What actions would you take to protect these rights?
A: Every Pennsylvanian deserves the right to clean air, pure water, and a good environment. Unfortunately, this isn’t the case in many instances across the Commonwealth. I believe in holding bad actors who pollute our communities accountable and I have a track record of doing so as State Representative. However, in order to further protect these constitutional rights, we must reinvest in our Department of Environmental Protection, which has been gutted over the past several decades. We must strengthen their ability to enforce existing laws, as well as increase their funding which will allow them to do a more efficient and effective job at protecting Pennsylvania’s environment.
Q: There are several pieces of gun legislation being considered on comprehensive background checks, red flag laws, and firearm safety training. What is your position on these measures?
A: Gun violence has become all too common across the country, including right here in Pennsylvania. I support common sense gun reforms, such as the ones listed above, in order to better protect our communities. I also support the idea of classifying gun violence as a public health issue, which would allow for more resources to be used to combat it. In fact, as senior advisor to Allegheny County Executive Rich Fitzgerald, I helped to create the Office of Violence Prevention within the Department of Health to do just that.
Republican
Carrie Lewis DelRosso, Allegheny County
Campaign Website: http://www.CarrieForPA.com
Campaign Facebook URL: http://facebook.com/carrieforpa
Campaign Twitter URL: http://twitter.com/carrieforpa
Education: University of Pittsburgh
Occupation: Member of State House of Representatives
Qualifications: Oakmont Council Member 2018-2020; State House Member 2021
Questions:
Q: What issue(s) would you prioritize, and how would you work with others in government to get legislation passed and signed into law?
A: Lower CNIT- Push for PA to more attractive state to manufacture and produce. Provide a better return on investment with k-12 education. Fully fund law enforcement. Fully fund infrastructure. Secure Elections. Promote Ag Growth.
Q: What changes, if any, would you support making to Pennsylvania’s voting laws?
A: Voter ID. Provide a more efficient system for early/absentee voting and deadlines. Voter Confidence -ballot security.
Q: Article 1, Section 27 of the PA constitution guarantees the rights of clean air, pure water, and the preservation of the environment. What actions would you take to protect these rights?
A: Promote energy growth and independence in PA while always mindful of our environment.
Q: There are several pieces of gun legislation being considered on comprehensive background checks, red flag laws, and firearm safety training. What is your position on these measures?
A: Protect our 2nd Amendment; right to people to bear arms.
Libertarian
Tim McMaster, York County
Campaign Website: http://tim4pa.com
Campaign Facebook URL: http://www.facebook.com/McMasterLtGov2022
Campaign Twitter URL: http://twitter.com/Tim4PA
Link to position on abortion:
Education: Central Penn College (MCSE, CCNA)
Occupation: IT Analyst / Farmer
Qualifications: Business owner, Citizen
Questions:
Q: What issue(s) would you prioritize, and how would you work with others in government to get legislation passed and signed into law?
A: I would work with willing members of the PA General Assembly to find ways to reduce, on a path to the total elimination of the onerous and destructive property tax. The very first way that I see to do this is to reduce excessive spending in the local school districts and focus on educating to the student, and not to the tests.
Q: What changes, if any, would you support making to Pennsylvania’s voting laws?
A: Voting is a sacred right that all citizens enjoy and a privilege that we should all exercise. However, to maintain the confidence of voters and the integrity of the system, some robust measures to ensure that sanctity must be employed. Universal mail-in balloting is a very bad idea in theory and nearly impossible to secure in practice. In this current age, some simple, yet effective means of verification must be employed.
Q: Article 1, Section 27 of the PA constitution guarantees the rights of clean air, pure water, and the preservation of the environment. What actions would you take to protect these rights?
A: My first step would be to hold polluters personally responsible for their pollution. No more decades long ‘arbitration’ cases and then a fine to the ‘Super Fund’ as a way out. If you or your entity have personally violated the property (or health and well-being) of others, you should be held to account. No exceptions or government ‘favors’ for large donors or allies.
Q: There are several pieces of gun legislation being considered on comprehensive background checks, red flag laws, and firearm safety training. What is your position on these measures?
A: The PA Constitution is quite clear and unambiguous on this matter. It states in Article 1, Section 21: “The right of the citizens to bear arms in defense of themselves and the State shall not be questioned.”
Green
Michael Bagdes-Canning, Butler County
Campaign Website: http://greenslate2022.com
Campaign Facebook URL: http://www.facebook.com/mikebagdescanning
Campaign Twitter URL: http://www.twitter.com/BagdesCanning
Link to position on abortion: http://www.greenslate2022.com/platform
Education: BS, Education, Slippery Rock University. MS, Education, Clarion University
Occupation: Retired teacher, community organizer (volunteer) with Marcellus Outreach Butler, Better Path Coalition, Beyond Extreme Energy, grant committee for Direct Support Fund and Frontline Community Fund
Qualifications: 33 years in elected office (Cherry Valley Borough, Council and Mayor), union leader, community organizer, serve on the board of several community organizations, founder of local, statewide and national organizations.
Questions:
Q: What issue(s) would you prioritize, and how would you work with others in government to get legislation passed and signed into law?
A: I call on Congress to pass the Women’s Health Protection Act of 2021 or equivalent legislation. A woman’s right to control her body is nonnegotiable and it is essential that the option of a safe, legal abortion remain available. I support a comprehensive gift ban, an end to the per diem, campaign finance reform, an end to outside jobs for our full-time legislators, and an end to partisan gerrymandering. We are facing the existential crisis of climate catastrophe. We must take immediate action to protect this and future generations. Access to universal, comprehensive, national single-payer health plan is a priority. Healthcare is a human right. Criminal justice, immigrants, and tax reform are also issues I would like to tackle immediately.
Q: What changes, if any, would you support making to Pennsylvania’s voting laws?
A: As noted above, I would work to end partisan gerrymandering. Establish guarantees that every citizen’s vote counts, and that all U.S. voting systems — including electronic ones — are verifiable, transparent and accurate. I am also for the elimination all ballot access laws and rules that discriminate against smaller parties and independents, and otherwise place undue burden on the right of citizens to run for office. We must enact proportional representation voting systems for legislative seats on municipal, county, state and federal levels. Provide full public financing of federal, state and local elections, including free and equal radio and television time on the public airwaves for all ballot-qualified candidates and parties.
Q: Article 1, Section 27 of the PA constitution guarantees the rights of clean air, pure water, and the preservation of the environment. What actions would you take to protect these rights?
A: We need to act on climate YESTERDAY. Since we didn’t, we must act aggressively NOW. We must work to stop burning fossil fuels, eliminate greenhouse admissions by 95% by 2050, end all fossil subsidies and redirect any research dollars to resiliency research. We must ensure that workers and communities are offered a just transition as we move away from fossil fuels. We also must demand that corporations that have spent decades poisoning our air, water, and soil clean up their messes. We must make people harmed by ecological devastation be made whole. We must adopt a policy that rescinds the right of serial offenders of environmental laws to do business in the state. We must build resiliency on a local and state level.
Q: There are several pieces of gun legislation being considered on comprehensive background checks, red flag laws, and firearm safety training. What is your position on these measures?
A: All of these pieces of legislation treat the symptoms, not the disease. Gun violence is a systemic problem with multiple roots and needs to be treated by “fixing” those roots. A lack of political will to make a change and an underinvestment in prevention is huge. All people should have access to quality health care including mental health, healthy communities, quality education, jobs, and treatment for trauma. In addition, we need sensible gun laws, accountability for gun companies, mandatory training for gun owners, support for high quality gun violence research, and accountability for law enforcement officers and private security. Finally, we must treat gun violence as the public health emergency. This is more than the 2nd Amendment.
Keystone
Nicole Shultz, York County
Campaign Website: http://Www.Nicoleshultz.com
Campaign Facebook URL: http://WWW.Facebook.com/ShultzforPALtGov
Campaign Twitter URL: http://WWW.Twitter.com/NicoleShultzforPA
Link to position on abortion: http://WWW.NicoleShultz.com
Education: Bachelor’s Degree in Small Business Administration and Entrepreneurship
Occupation: Self Employed
Qualifications: Auditor Windsor Twp., Small business owner
Questions:
Q: What issue(s) would you prioritize, and how would you work with others in government to get legislation passed and signed into law?
A: Misappropriation of our state’s tax revenue is one of the most important problems we face. Redirected funds end up staling out important state-wide projects with little to no transparency for Pennsylvania’s constituents to know where their money is actually being spent. As a moderate third party, I am uniquely positioned to work with anyone in government to find actual solutions without being beholden to guard a party line.
Q: What changes, if any, would you support making to Pennsylvania’s voting laws?
A: Open primaries and equalization of ballot access rules across all candidates would be a good start. Up to twenty-five million dollars of Pennsylvania’s tax monies are spent on primary season alone. The number of Pennsylvania voters that are registered as third party, independent, or other is at 1.2 million and growing; leaving a large number of citizens without a voice until election day while they contribute to footing the bill. And many of their best qualified choices may never even make the ballot.
Q: Article 1, Section 27 of the PA constitution guarantees the rights of clean air, pure water, and the preservation of the environment. What actions would you take to protect these rights?
A: As an example, fracking in Pennsylvania provides jobs to over 20,000 Pennsylvanians and brings in revenue of over 500,000,000 dollars. There is no doubt that industry is an important part of our economy. However, the rush to grow it has led to an oversight of the environmental impact to surrounding communities. I would like to see emphasis put into predicting the ramifications of business practices that could negatively impact the environment, guidelines put in place to prevent that from happening, and stricter penalties for failing to meet those guidelines. The goal is to create incentives that would make it profitable for business to be conducted in our state, but in a safe manner that doesn’t leave us resource less in the future.
Q: There are several pieces of gun legislation being considered on comprehensive background checks, red flag laws, and firearm safety training. What is your position on these measures?
A: I believe red flag laws could be easily manipulated to wrongfully strip law abiding citizens of their rights. And any time individual’s rights are involved, we should tread carefully. Any laws put in place to limit inalienable rights should be as limited as possible. Background checks, in this regard, are more acceptable as they are less prone to being used in malice. Firearm Safety courses could go a long way in dispelling the fear and misunderstandings surrounding gun debates. If implemented correctly I see that as a positive. Ultimately all of these things dance around the issue that no one seems to want to name. We desperately need to address mental health issues and how they relate to gun related crimes.
PENNSYLVANIA US REPRESENTATIVE DISTRICT 8
Term: 2 years
Salary: $174,000
(Vote for ONE)
JOB DESCRIPTION: The US Constitution requires that the House of Representatives be composed of Representatives from each state, elected in proportion to population. There are 435 members of the House of Representatives, with 17 Representatives allotted to Pennsylvania after the 2020 census. A US Representative must be at least 25 years old, have been a citizen of the United States for the past seven years, and be a resident of the state they seek to represent at the time of the election (though not necessarily the same district). The House of Representatives is responsible for introducing and voting on bills, resolutions, and amendments, and for approving the budget. Representatives also serve on various policy committees. The House may send Articles of Impeachment of elected officials to the Senate and elects the President if there is a tie in the Electoral College.
Democratic
Matt Cartwright, Lackawanna County
Campaign Website: http://cartwrightcongress.com/
Campaign Facebook URL: http://www.facebook.com/cartwrightpa
Campaign Twitter URL: http://twitter.com/cartwrightpa
Education: Graduated magna cum laude with a history degree from Hamilton College in 1983. Earned his J.D. from the University of Pennsylvania Law School in 1986, was a member of law review.
Occupation: U.S. House of Representative PA08
Qualifications: I have spent my entire career sticking up for working people, first as a trial attorney and now as the Congressman in Pennsylvania’s Eighth District since 2103. I also serve as Chairman of the powerful House Appropriations Subcommittee for Commerce, Justice and Science.
Questions:
Q: What issue(s) would you prioritize, and how would you work with others in government to get legislation passed and signed into law?
A: I’ll work with anyone for everyone, and, over my years in Congress, I’ve introduced over 70 pieces of legislation, often with bipartisan support. In fact, I have been recognized for working across the aisle and introducing more bipartisan bills than any other House Democrat. I’m committed to strengthening the middle class, creating good-paying jobs, ensuring quality health care and lowering prescription drug costs, protecting seniors and Social Security, and supporting veterans and military families. The nonpartisan Center for Effective Lawmaking named me one of the most effective members of the U.S. House for my record of advancing real solutions to the biggest issues our nation faces.
Q: What will you do in office to ensure all eligible voters have equal access to free and fair elections?
A: I support clean and fair elections and have voted for significant reforms as part of the For the People Act. They include protecting states’ voting and vote count systems, increasing voting hours, shining a light on dark money in politics by requiring donor disclosure, expanding conflict of interest laws, and closing influence loopholes for lobbyists. My Time Off to Vote Act would guarantee paid leave to vote in a federal election.
Q: What measures, regulations, or acts, if any, would you support to mitigate climate change?
A: This Congress, I voted for a $555 billion in climate change mitigation initiatives, which would be the largest ever such investment, to help the U.S. get more clean power from the wind and sun, speed the shift to electric vehicles, and make our homes and workplaces more efficient. It would invest heavily in strengthening public transit, expanding affordable housing, and cutting pollution in disadvantaged communities. These initiatives were part of the Build Back Better Act, and they should be enacted either as part of that package or separately.
Q: How do you view the role of the US in responding to challenges facing the international community?
A: The U.S. should take a leadership role in combating terrorism, nuclear proliferation, human rights abuses, the erosion of democracy, climate threats, and other multilateral problems, challenges, and opportunities. Our current leadership role in helping Ukraine and responding to the humanitarian crisis there should be continued. We would work with like-minded countries to address security and economic challenges that effect the entire international community.
Republican
Jim Bognet
Candidate did not respond.
PENNSYLVANIA US REPRESENTATIVE DISTRICT 9
Term: 2 years
Salary: $174,000
(Vote for ONE)
JOB DESCRIPTION: The US Constitution requires that the House of Representatives be composed of Representatives from each state, elected in proportion to population. There are 435 members of the House of Representatives, with 17 Representatives allotted to Pennsylvania after the 2020 census. A US Representative must be at least 25 years old, have been a citizen of the United States for the past seven years, and be a resident of the state they seek to represent at the time of the election (though not necessarily the same district). The House of Representatives is responsible for introducing and voting on bills, resolutions, and amendments, and for approving the budget. Representatives also serve on various policy committees. The House may send Articles of Impeachment of elected officials to the Senate and elects the President if there is a tie in the Electoral College.
Democratic
Amanda R. Waldman
Candidate did not respond.
Republican
Dan Meuser
Candidate did not respond.
PENNSYLVANIA STATE REPESNTATIVE DISTRICT 116
Term: 2 years
Salary: $95,432
(Vote for ONE)
JOB DESCRIPTION: The General Assembly is the legislative branch of government in Pennsylvania. It is composed of two houses: the Senate is the upper house, and the House of Representatives is the lower house. A majority vote in both houses is necessary to pass a law. The PA House of Representatives consists of 203 members representing one district each, with an equal number of constituents. Representatives must be at least 21 years old, have been a citizen and a resident of the state four years and a resident of their respective districts one year before their election, and shall reside in their respective districts during their terms of service. The House develops budget packages, makes taxation decisions, allocates spending, and passes laws (including redistricting in collaboration with the Senate). The House also has the exclusive authority to impeach public officials. Representatives also serve on various policy committees that may propose legislation.
Democratic
Yesenia Rodriguez, Luzerne County
Campaign Website: http://www.friendsofyesenia.com
Campaign Facebook URL: http://www.facebook.com/FriendsofYesenia
Education: HS Graduate, Medgar Evers College, classes in Business Administration
Occupation: Self-employed small business owner
Qualifications: Small business owner, active community member, active with non-profits
Questions:
Q: What issue(s) would you prioritize, and how would you work with others in government to get legislation passed and signed into law?
A: Public education, fair funding, job creation, economic development, especially for small business owners, helping startup and capital availability, assistance for senior citizens and those on a fixed income, including property tax reform.
Q: What changes, if any, would you support making to Pennsylvania’s voting laws?
A: Strengthen secure elections and mail-in voting, expand early voting and provide additional funding for county election and day of election staff.
Q: Article 1, Section 27 of the PA constitution guarantees the rights of clean air, pure water, and the preservation of the environment. What actions would you take to protect these rights?
A: Strengthen oversight of companies and their interaction and what they are doing to protect our air, water, and our environment.
Q: There are several pieces of gun legislation being considered on comprehensive background checks, red flag laws, and firearm safety training. What is your position on these measures?
A: I support comprehensive background checks, red flag laws and firearm safety training.
Republican
Dane Watro, Schuylkill County
Campaign Website: https://imforwatro.com
Education: Some college, US Army Military Combat Veteran Iraq
Occupation: Truancy/Attendance Officer Hazleton Area School District
Qualifications: 8 years executive office holder – Mayor of McAdoo, served as Chairman of the Civil Service Commission, currently Vice Chairman of the KTMA Water Co., Served as Republican Party Committeeman for my community over a decade, Lifelong service to Country and Community applied for state funding for community projects and was successful in obtaining funds. Member of the McAdoo Borough Uniform Construction Code appeals board. Ability of Compromise.
Questions:
Q: What issue(s) would you prioritize, and how would you work with others in government to get legislation passed and signed into law?
A: As a United States Army combat veteran, former local elected official and dedicated community volunteer, I truly care about the place we call home and the values we share. That is why the people of the 116th District can trust me to use my proven experience, record of accomplishments, and conservative values, to make our communities better places to live, work, and raise a family. Pennsylvania taxpayers work hard for their money. We need a proven fiscal conservative to protect values. That’s why the voters in in our communities can count on me to defend the sanctity of human life and safeguard our 2nd Amendment rights. I will also fight to eliminate property taxes for our hardworking families and seniors on fixed incomes, protect and create family-sustaining jobs, invest in our police to reduce crime, end unconstitutional mandates and enact common-sense election reforms.
Q: What changes, if any, would you support making to Pennsylvania’s voting laws?
A: My immediate priority would be to repeal ACT 77 and require identification to vote. ACT 77 has led to the unconstitutional application of mail-in ballot rules. The Democrat led Pennsylvania Supreme Court ignored the clear legislative mandate that mail-in ballots shall be filled out, signed, and dated in order to be valid. These illegal applications will only continue in greater quantity in closely contested races. I support increasing ballot access initiatives, but it is also imperative we protect the integrity of our elections by ensuring those who participate meet the eligibility requirements to prevent voter fraud and ballot harvesting.
Q: Article 1, Section 27 of the PA constitution guarantees the rights to clean air, pure water, and the preservation of the environment. What actions would you take to protect these rights?
A: As someone who spends a lot of time outdoors hunting and fishing with my family, I understand the value of our natural resources and preserving our environment. Working together with local businesses, farmers, conservation managers and residents, we need to reduce the pollutants in our rivers, streams and air. However, under the Wolf Administration, the Department of Environmental Protection has implemented new policies that are stifling Pennsylvania’s economic growth and hurting our small-businesses and family farmers. It’s time for government to get off our backs and return to what President Lincoln envisioned: a government of the people, by the people, for the people.
Q: There are several pieces of gun legislation being considered on comprehensive background checks, red flag laws, and firearm safety training. What is your position on these measures?
A: As a United States Army combat veteran, proud member of the National Rifle Association, gun owner, and concealed carry permit holder, I know that Pennsylvania’s legal gun owners are amongst the most responsible and respectful in the nation. I do not believe that we need more gun control laws. We need to abide by and strictly enforce the laws that are already in place.
PENNSYLVANIA STATE REPRESENTATIVE DISTRICT 117
Term: 2 years
Salary: $95,432
(Vote for ONE)
JOB DESCRIPTION: The General Assembly is the legislative branch of government in Pennsylvania. It is composed of two houses: the Senate is the upper house, and the House of Representatives is the lower house. A majority vote in both houses is necessary to pass a law. The PA House of Representatives consists of 203 members representing one district each, with an equal number of constituents. Representatives must be at least 21 years old, have been a citizen and a resident of the state four years and a resident of their respective districts one year before their election, and shall reside in their respective districts during their terms of service. The House develops budget packages, makes taxation decisions, allocates spending, and passes laws (including redistricting in collaboration with the Senate). The House also has the exclusive authority to impeach public officials. Representatives also serve on various policy committees that may propose legislation.
Democratic
No candidate.
Republican
Mike Cabell, Luzerne County
Campaign Website: http://www.mikecabell.com
Campaign Website: http://www.facebook.com/repcabell
Education: Saint Joseph’s University (Political Science)
Occupation: Business Owner
Qualifications: Co-Founder & Board Member of CIVIQ Health, a behavioral healthcare company Mike recently successfully exited.
Questions:
Q: What issue(s) would you prioritize, and how would you work with others in government to get legislation passed and signed into law?
A: In speaking with many people in the district, I have realized the folks in the 117th are most concerned with the conditions of our roads, our property taxes, and now more than ever, with the pro-life movement. I have built my career in business by being a dealmaker and someone who can collaborate to get things done. I am confident that my achievements in business have equipped me with the tools necessary to get things done in Harrisburg.
Q: What changes, if any, would you support making to Pennsylvania’s voting laws?
A: A simple answer: Repeal act 77 immediately. Talking with the voters across the district, it is imperative to them that we have a sense of election security. Without fair and secure elections, our democracy is in danger.
Q: Article 1, Section 27 of the PA constitution guarantees the rights to clean air, pure water, and the preservation of the environment. What actions would you take to protect these rights?
A: The 117th is an overwhelmingly rural district with incredible state parks and a beautiful landscape. I will make it a priority to preserve that beauty and way of life for folks that want nothing more than to be able to walk out their doors and be in nature. I will work with farmers and local municipalities to secure the funds needed to preserve our green spaces and farmland.
Q: There are several pieces of gun legislation being considered on comprehensive background checks, red flag laws, and firearm safety training. What is your position on these measures?
A: As a lifetime NRA member & the fact that I have achieved the highest rating by the NRA for a non-candidate, I can tell you I will do everything in my power to protect our 2nd amendment rights. Safety as a gun owner has always been my number one priority. Still, these laws must make sense and not do anything to infringe on a fundamental right of an American under the 2 nd amendment.
PENNSYLVANIA STATE REPRESENTATIVE DISTRICT 119
Term: 2 years
Salary: $95,432
(Vote for ONE)
JOB DESCRIPTION: The General Assembly is the legislative branch of government in Pennsylvania. It is composed of two houses: the Senate is the upper house, and the House of Representatives is the lower house. A majority vote in both houses is necessary to pass a law. The PA House of Representatives consists of 203 members representing one district each, with an equal number of constituents. Representatives must be at least 21 years old, have been a citizen and a resident of the state four years and a resident of their respective districts one year before their election, and shall reside in their respective districts during their terms of service. The House develops budget packages, makes taxation decisions, allocates spending, and passes laws (including redistricting in collaboration with the Senate). The House also has the exclusive authority to impeach public officials. Representatives also serve on various policy committees that may propose legislation.
Democratic
Vito Malacari, Luzerne County
Campaign Website: http://vitoforpa.com
Campaign Facebook URL: http://facebook.com/vitoforpa
Campaign Twitter URL: http://twitter.com/vitoforpa
Education: Bishop Hoban High School; King’s College Bachelor of Arts in History; Wilkes University Master of Science in 21st Century Education
Occupation: Teacher
Qualifications: I have 13 years in education (2 years in alternative education and 11 years at Northwest Area); Delegate on the NEPA Health Trust Consortium for 8 years; Volunteer coordinator for Veterans Day services and food drive at Northwest area for 8 years; Took part in inaugural IMPACT Leadership Program
Questions:
Q: What issue(s) would you prioritize, and how would you work with others in government to get legislation passed and signed into law?
A: Priority needs include education and education funding, infrastructure, and healthcare. I would ensure that every child in Pennsylvania has an equitable education regardless of their zip code. The state needs to step up and fully fund our public schools. We need to expand current property tax rebate programs to capture more seniors, Veterans, and vulnerable populations and reduce their tax burden. We need to address our aging infrastructure by increasing funding to replace outdated water and sewer lines along with roads and bridges. We must ensure that all people have access to affordable, high-quality healthcare. I would work with others to find common ground and compromise. A pragmatic approach must be at the forefront of government.
Q: What changes, if any, would you support making to Pennsylvania’s voting laws?
A: The changes I would make to our voting laws would be to expand access to the ballot in Pennsylvania. I would maintain Act 77 with some modifications. We need to allow counties to canvass ballots before election day so we get results faster. We should pre-register young people to vote so that when they turn 18 they are already registered and ready to vote. We should automatically register people by using other government agencies like the DOT. We need to ensure voters are informed and fight against voter misinformation with rigorous civics education in high school. I would also want to see open primaries to allow more participation along with early voting options expanded to allow for greater participation.
Q: Article 1, Section 27 of the PA constitution guarantees the rights of clean air, pure water, and the preservation of the environment. What actions would you take to protect these rights?
A: The environment must be a priority so that future generations have a place to play, enjoy, and use for recreation. I would ensure this through a pragmatic approach of using federal funding to clean up streams, like Solomon’s Creek, from acid mine drainage. Acid mine drainage is something that needs a long-term plan and investment, but we can do it to provide clean water for all people to use. We need to use federal funds to retrofit older plants, homes, and schools to be as energy efficient as possible as a way to reduce fossil fuel consumption and minimize emissions. We need to leverage federal funds to conserve land around our region so people can hunt, fish, hike, and bike while enjoying the splendor that is NEPA.
Q: There are several pieces of gun legislation being considered on comprehensive background checks, red flag laws, and firearm safety training. What is your position on these measures?
A: Gun control measures that take a common-sense approach are something that I support. Increasing safety training is something that can reduce firearm accidents and something we should do. Firearm safety training courses taught by professionals are highly effective in understanding proper usage. Tightening background checks, eliminating the gun show loopholes, limiting high-capacity magazines, and bump stocks can help reduce gun-related deaths. Red flag laws can be appropriate when taken up by the courts on a case-by-case basis as each one is unique to that situation.
Republican
Alec J. Ryncavage
Candidate did not respond.
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2022 Municipal General Election November 8, 2022
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