Meet the candidates for state office on the ballot in Pennsylvania’s primary election
Editor’s note: The following information was compiled by the League of Women Voters of Pennsylvania for the June 2 primary election. Due to the coronavirus pandemic, mail-in voting is encouraged. You must be registered to vote in Pennsylvania by Monday, May 18. You may verify your registration status, register, change your address, or change your party affiliation online at votespa.com or CentreCountyVotes.com.
You must apply for an absentee or mail-in ballot by Tuesday, May 26. The Centre County Office of Elections must receive your application for either ballot by 5 p.m. May 26. If you have a valid Pennsylvania driver’s license or PennDOT ID, you may apply online. If you do not have either of those IDs, you may download a paper application at votespa.com or CentreCountyVotes.com and mail it to CCOE, or visit the CCOE in person. You may also drop it into the new ballot drop election mailbox, no stamp required, right outside the main entrance into the Willowbank Building, 420 Holmes St., Bellefonte, PA. The mailbox is emptied by Centre County Elections Office personnel twice daily.
Below is information about candidates that will appear on ballots.
Pennsylvania Attorney General
Description of office: The basic duties of the attorney general, as outlined by the Commonwealth Attorneys Act, are to: serve as the commonwealth’s chief law enforcement officer; collect all debts, taxes and accounts due to the commonwealth; represent the commonwealth and all its agencies in any action brought by or against the commonwealth; administer the provision relating to consumer protection laws; represent the commonwealth and its citizens in any action brought about for violation of the antitrust laws.
Term: Four years
Salary: $167,838
Candidates (choose 1):
Josh Shapiro
Party: Dem
County: Montgomery
Did not respond to questions
Heather Heidelbaugh
Party: Rep
County: Allegheny
Education: J.D., University of Missouri-Columbia School of Law; B.A. in economics and political science, University of Missouri-Columbia
Qualifications: Experienced trial lawyer with more than 35 years of courtroom experience who understands the complexities of the law, the intersection between policy and law, and how the law impacts the lives of citizens
Campaign website: heatherheidelbaugh.com
Facebook: facebook.com/HeatherforAG
Twitter: twitter.com/heidelbaugh4ag
Q: What are your top three priorities to address as attorney general?
A: 1). Keep Pennsylvania safe — The Commonwealth Attorneys Act states one of the main roles of the AG is criminal prosecutions. This would be my top priority. The AG works with local DAs and law enforcement to keep Pennsylvania residents safe, including a strong commitment to addressing drug trafficking and the opioid crisis. 2). Put people before politics — Restore the AG’s Office to following mandates set forth in the Commonwealth Attorneys Act and perform lawyering for the people of Pennsylvania versus using the office for political gain. 3). Protect the mentally ill — Establish a blue ribbon panel of experts from Pennsylvania to examine the treatment of the mentally ill, address the current state of mental illness and more. The panel would issue a report suggesting structural changes.
Q: The Office of the Pennsylvania Attorney General is responsible for law enforcement and the equal protection of law for all citizens. What do you see as the primary challenges to achieving equality under the law?
A: Keeping Pennsylvania safe has to be the top priority of the AG. The AG’s statutory role is the prosecutor of crime. The AG has to prioritize resources, so scarce resources are used for the highest priority tasks of the office. Crime enforcement, in conjunction with the DAs, is the first priority. Crime operates across county and jurisdictional lines, so coordination with multiple county DAs is critical. Investigations that may take years and cost millions can’t be wasted by prosecutors failing to follow criminal procedure. The AG must take an active role in the management of the office. The purpose of prosecuting crime is to ensure safety, not create headlines. With that purpose in mind, equal protection for all should be achieved.
Q: What role will your administration play in reforming systemic problems and supporting restorative justice in our criminal justice system?
A: As the county councilperson at large on Allegheny County Council, I was critical of the operation of the county jail. The Allegheny County jail had more suicides than any other jail in the country. I determined that one county employee had repeatedly failed to process the proper release of a large number of people from the jail, and she was terminated. Each day someone is in jail, it cost taxpayers, they become a suicide risk and lose their liberty unnecessarily. As AG, I would continue to advocate for government institutions to properly run jails and prisons. Jails and/or prisons must be properly run so we have the space to jail criminals, not those who don’t belong there.
Pennsylvania Auditor General
Description of office: The principal role of the auditor general is to determine whether state funds are being used in accordance with the purpose and guidelines that govern each use of the commonwealth’s dollars. The auditor general conducts financial and performance audits of individuals, state agencies and organizations that receive state funds, including school districts, state liquor stores and public employee pension funds. These audits are designed to measure how effectively government programs are using public money to meet their stated goals and objectives. The office performs more than 6,000 audits each year and is responsible for auditing all federal funds that are allocated to Pennsylvania state programs.
Term: Four years
Salary: $167,838
Candidates (choose 1):
H. Scott Conklin
Party: Dem
County: Centre
Education: Philipsburg-Osceola Area High School, Clearfield County Career and Technical School
Qualifications: Served as board chairman of Centre County, chairman of the Salary Board, Retirement Board member, Employee Benefits Trust member and Board of Assessment member, prior to representing the 77th Legislative District of Pennsylvania. Also a small business owner and union member.
Campaign website: conklinforpa.com
Facebook: facebook.com/ConklinforPA
Twitter: twitter.com/ConklinforPA
Q: What are your top three priorities in office?
A: I have always thought of myself as a hard working voice for all people, and have served with the trust of those I represent in Harrisburg. Now, I believe it is time to use my voice for all Pennsylvanians by holding our government accountable. If you believe, as I do, that our government needs to be held accountable for its spending, that our government must have an advocate for taxpayers, and that our government must work for all Pennsylvanians, then please consider supporting this campaign. Only through building a strong coalition of voters across the state, can we hope to secure these goals.
Q: What distinguishes you from other candidates who are seeking to be Pennsylvania’s next auditor general?
A: I am running for the office of auditor general because I have seen firsthand how wasteful spending can impede the missions of government. I believe that the work of the current auditor general’s office must continue, and that every taxpayer dollar should be spent legally and efficiently. I have spent my career serving the people of the 77th Legislative District, first as chairman of the Centre County commissioners, where I oversaw a $90 million budget. After I was elected to the House, I was placed on the appropriations committee as a freshman representative, because of my experience in government. Furthermore, I co-own and operate a business with my wife Terri in Philipsburg.
Michael Lamb
Party: Dem
County: Allegheny
Education: B.A. Penn State; MPM Heinz College, Carnegie Mellon University; J.D. Duquesne University School of Law
Qualifications: As controller since 2008 I have protected residents from waste, fraud and abuse of their tax dollars. My audits have uncovered millions in savings and I have provided unprecedented levels of transparency into city finances. I also led the effort to reform our county into a home rule community.
Campaign website: lambforpa.com
Facebook: facebook.com/MichaelLambPA
Twitter: twitter.com/MichaelLambPA
Q: What are your top three priorities in office?
A: The auditor general is our first line of defense against public corruption. I plan to address that in part by bringing unprecedented levels of transparency to the commonwealth. I have developed several tools of transparency for greater public engagement into the issues of public finance. I plan to bring those tools to the commonwealth. During time of crisis it is important to recognize that some will see an opportunity for fraud. I have developed a plan to address these concerns including testing for price gouging, addressing misinformation, protecting whistleblowers and monitoring stimulus spending. Pennsylvania’s largest cost is education. I plan to devote significant resources to hold accountable our charter schools and all institutions of learning.
Q: What distinguishes you from other candidates who are seeking to be Pennsylvania’s next auditor general?
A: As city controller it has been my job every day to watch over spending and protect taxpayers from waste, fraud and abuse. My record of fiscal responsibility, innovation, reform and open government helped me to play a key role in leading Pittsburgh out of near bankruptcy. My efforts to address our legacy costs while protecting our public assets have helped place our city on firm financial footing. As county row officer, I put people first by advocating a reform that eliminated my own job while generating savings to our taxpayers. As an attorney I have focused on helping communities restructure their finances while helping pension fund trustees address losses to their portfolios due to fraud. I am uniquely qualified to be auditor general.
Tracie Fountain
Party: Dem
County: Dauphin (born and raised in Allegheny County)
Education: Drexel University B.S. business of administration - major accounting; certified public accountant since 1991
Qualifications: Served 29-plus years in leadership roles in the administrations of the current and prior three auditor generals. Initially hired as a field audit supervisor. After four years promoted to department’s technical manager. After three years, appointed audit bureau director; serving as director for five audit bureaus.
Campaign website: tracieforpa.com
Facebook: facebook.com/tracieforpa
Twitter: twitter.com/tracieforpa
Q: What are your top three priorities in office?
A: 1). Addressing the impact of significant staff shortages, as a result of continual legislative budget cuts, on the department’s ability to properly and timely complete 5,000 mandated audits annually. At the time of my hire, the department had 850 employees statewide and was down to 392 at Nov. 1, 2019, while still being responsible for the completion of 5,000 audits annually. 2). Preventing the fraudulent use of Pennsylvania’s COVID-19 economic stimulus funds and small business loans proceeds by helping to ensure that these funds are properly awarded to Pennsylvania’s intended recipients. 3). Protecting the lives of Pennsylvania’s most vulnerable citizens — our children, our elderly and mentally challenged.
Q: What distinguishes you from other candidates who are seeking to be Pennsylvania’s next auditor general?
A: I am the only candidate in this race who, in addition to being a CPA, served in leadership roles in the administrations of the current and prior three auditor generals. As a result, I know this department, its staff, where they are strong, and where improvements are needed, making me the only candidate in this race who will be ready on day one of taking office to effectively lead this department, especially given the department’s significant staff cuts. I am also the only candidate in this race who, while on the campaign trail, issued two op-ed pieces: “Policy to Support PA Attorney General’s Efforts to Monitor State Funds Awarded to Nonprofits” and “Reducing PA’s Risk of Fraud, Waste, Abuse and Mismanagement of COVID-19 Economic Stimulus Funds.”
Rose “Rosie” Marie Davis
Party: Dem
County: Monroe
Education: BBA in accounting; B.S. in political science
Qualifications: I have an accounting degree and I am a certified public accountant with 34-plus years of audit experience. My expertise includes managing and conducting financial, operational, compliance and internal control reviews of federal, state and local government agencies and not-for-profit organizations.
Campaign website: www.rosieforpa.com
Facebook: facebook.com/ROSIE-for-PA-113154753563481/
Q: What are your top three priorities in office?
A: 1). The top priority is to save the Pennsylvania taxpayers roughly $600,000 of extra salary cost because as the next auditor general, there will be no need to hire another CPA to direct the audit team because I have the direct CPA experience to handle the technical job. 2). Addressing public school district funding inequality. I plan to review public school district funding from a top down approach. 3). A significant portion of state taxpayer sponsored programs and services are outsourced to third-party contractors who provide substandard and inadequate services. I will conduct more performance and effectiveness audits of third-party contracts. Like: The share ride program for elderly and vulnerable citizens is on top of the list.
Q: What distinguishes you from other candidates who are seeking to be Pennsylvania’s next auditor general?
A: I am the most qualified candidate because I am a financial professional that has CPA public accounting and federal audit experience. I have an accounting degree, a CPA license and 34 years of real and relevant audit experience. I bring Wall Street and Main Street experience to the auditor general’s office. I have a lifetime of managing audit teams and bringing real results to my clients over the years. I am independent and owe no one any political favors; therefore I can provide honest and candid assessments of operations at state agencies and programs. I have a stellar track record of identifying instances of fraud and abuse in governmental operations and within city and state controller’s offices.
Nina Ahmad
Party: Dem
County: Philadelphia
Education: Ph.D. in chemistry, postdoctoral training in molecular genetics
Qualifications: Policymaker (deputy mayor and adviser to President Obama on AAPI) Co-owner-Community Development finance business Trustee of Foundation, Grant making Chair-$40 million in grants and Investment Committee: oversight on half-billion-dollar endowment. Board member, National Organization for Women
Campaign website: ninaforpa.com
Facebook: facebook.com/NinaforPA
Twitter: twitter.com/NinaAhmadPHL
Q: What are your top three priorities in office?
A: Health care, education and violence. These are all informed by the theme of my campaign which is accountability and transparency and the understanding that the taxpayers end up paying more if we ignore the problems that perpetuate inequality and injustice. I will take on Big Pharma to lower costs on lifesaving medicines with a focus on pharmacy benefits manager to increase efficiencies. I will protect and increase education funding to make sure our students have the best education in safe and healthy environments. I will focus on ending violence including sexual harassment/violence, advocate to end nondisclosure settlements as well as address gun violence by giving lawmakers the data to fight the NRA and pass tough new gun laws.
Q: What distinguishes you from other candidates who are seeking to be Pennsylvania’s next auditor general?
A: I believe that the auditor general’s office can be a powerful tool for progressive change. I am running to deliver real results in the fight for equality, accountability and transparency. My life experience of surviving the violent Liberation War of Bangladesh makes me cherish the promise of America, of a good education, quality health care and economic opportunity. I have a firm path to victory. Starting with a small lead ahead of everyone, I jump to a 34-point advantage on my nearest competitor statewide, when voters learn about my approach and background as a scientist, policymaker and former local president of NOW. I am the only Philadelphia candidate in the race that historically makes up half the statewide turnout in elections.
Christina M. Hartman
Party: Dem
County: Lancaster
Education: M.A., international political economy and development, February 2004 Fordham University, Bronx, New York; B.A., international affairs, May 1999 The George Washington University, Washington, D.C. Semester abroad at Université de Paris IV (Sorbonne)
Qualifications: For 20 years, I’ve held governments to account in some of the world’s worst dictatorships. I led and managed federally funded projects with budgets up to $44 million with large teams across multiple offices worldwide that underwent numerous audits, which found that they were efficient and effective.
Campaign website: christinamhartman.com
Facebook: facebook.com/HartmanForPA
Twitter: twitter.com/hartmanforpa
Q: What are your top three priorities in office?
A: My priorities are education, health care and criminal justice reform. Education audits account for a third of this office’s work. I will evaluate the discrepancy between the standards and funding for public schools and charter schools, which are often held to lower standards, harming our students on the taxpayers’ dime. Health care costs continue to rise, especially for seniors. I will look at rising drug costs and nursing home treatment of seniors to ensure that Medicare/Medicaid dollars are spent well for our most vulnerable. For criminal justice, I will examine inefficiencies created by focusing on punishment over rehabilitation leading to high recidivism rates, a truly inefficient and ineffective use of our tax dollars.
Q: What distinguishes you from other candidates who are seeking to be Pennsylvania’s next auditor general?
A: I have the technical, leadership and political experience to win in November and lead the auditor general’s office. I’m the only candidate who has run in a competitive general election with Trump at the top of the ticket and narrowed the GOP margin. When I ran for Congress in 2016, we raised $1.25 million and got endorsed by the national party and EMILY’s List, in a district originally deemed too red to win. That experience is going to be crucial in 2020. Finally, we are running a true statewide campaign. We have more than 60 endorsements, including Gov. Rendell, in 18 counties, and I’ve been to 45 of 67 counties. As a candidate from central Pennsylvania, I’m working to unite Democrats across the state to make sure we turn Pennsylvania blue in November.
Timothy DeFoor
Party: Rep
County: Dauphin
Education: Harrisburg Area Community College, Associate of Arts, paralegal studies; University of Pittsburgh, Bachelor of Arts, general studies (concentration sociology and history); Harrisburg University, Master of Science, project management
Qualifications: Former special investigator, commonwealth of Pennsylvania, Office of Inspector General; retired special agent, commonwealth of Pennsylvania, Office of Attorney General; Dauphin County controller (2016 to present); former certified internal auditor with the International Organization for Standards
Campaign website: defoor4pa.com
Facebook: facebook.com/DeFoor4PA
Q: What are your top three priorities in office?
A: 1.) Work to have a more transparent government. For example, I will work to end political loopholes like the “honor system” that allows state agencies to keep high-dollar, taxpayer funded contracts hidden from the public. 2). Bring in subject matter experts to audit the progress and performance of any new and expensive initiatives and projects to determine how and if taxpayer dollars are being spent wisely. 3). Perform detailed quality management audits to determine if the customer service processes and experiences for individual taxpayers and businesses doing business with the commonwealth are efficient.
Q: What distinguishes you from other candidates who are seeking to be Pennsylvania’s next auditor general?
A: Over 25 years of combined law enforcement and auditing experience in both the public and private sectors. First as a special investigator with the commonwealth of Pennsylvania, Office of Inspector General investigating government and contractor fraud, waste and abuse. As a special agent with the commonwealth of Pennsylvania, Office of Attorney General investigating Medicaid fraud and illegal prescription drug diversion and a fraud Investigator and internal auditor for the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center — Health Plan and various federal contractors.
Pennsylvania Treasurer
Description of office: The duty of the Pennsylvania treasurer is to safeguard the commonwealth’s financial assets, which total more than $120 billion in public monies. The office manages several programs in order to better serve the financial needs of Pennsylvanians. The Treasury Department is also responsible for: reuniting unclaimed property with its rightful owner; investigating loss, theft and fraud involving commonwealth checks; reviewing real estate leases and contracts entered into by commonwealth agencies; and maintaining the Pennsylvania contracts electronic library. The treasurer has specific duties in addition to the oversight of the department: serves as chair of the Board of Finance and Revenue, which selects banks to serve as depositories for state money; sets interest rates paid on commonwealth deposits; and hears and decides state tax appeals.
Term: Four years
Salary: $167,838
Candidates (choose 1):
Joe Torsella
Party: Dem
County: Montgomery
Education: University of Pennsylvania (B.A.); New College, Oxford University
Qualifications: Current treasurer of Pennsylvania; former ambassador to the U.N. for Management and Reform; former president and CEO of the National Constitution Center; former Philadelphia deputy mayor for policy and planning
Campaign website: joetorsella.com
Facebook: facebook.com/JoeTorsellaforTreasurer
Twitter: twitter.com/JoeTorsella
Q: What is the most important duty of the state treasurer? If elected, how would you carry out that duty?
A: From day one, my most important duty has been restoring integrity to an office too often marred by scandal — three of the last five elected treasurers have been indicted. Upon taking office, I immediately banned the use of middlemen to win investment contracts and introduced Treasury’s first-ever conflict-of-interest policy and chief integrity officer. In addition to restoring integrity, we’ve created the Keystone Scholars program, which gives at-birth college and career savings accounts to every child born or adopted in Pennsylvania after Jan. 1, 2019. Furthermore, we fight to hold Wall Street accountable to taxpayers, including through legal action when necessary and as trustees for our public pension systems.
Q: What distinguishes you from your opponent in the general election?
A: I have spent my career in the public sector, fighting for the responsible use of taxpayer funds in our civic institutions. Before serving as treasurer, I was the U.S. ambassador for U.N. Management and Reform. Prior to that, I was the founding president and CEO of the National Constitution Center and Philadelphia’s deputy mayor for policy and planning. What these roles have in common is a dedication to the highest and best use of funds, contributed by the masses, toward a common goal. They each require the careful stewardship of someone else’s contribution: to reinforce effective international cooperation; to build a beautiful civic resource for our nation; or to resolve a $1.25 billion deficit and revitalize a vibrant major American city.
Stacy L. Garrity
Party: Rep
County: Bradford
Did not respond to questions
U.S. House of Representatives
Description of office: Congress, the legislative branch of the federal government, is composed of two houses. The upper house is the Senate. The lower house is the House of Representatives. A majority vote by both houses is necessary to pass a law.
Term: Two years
Salary: $174,000
Pennsylvania District 12
Candidates (choose 1):
Lee Griffin
Party: Dem
County: Northumberland
Education: Bachelor’s degree in philosophy from IUP
Qualifications: Experience in business management
Campaign website: leegriffinforcongress.com
Facebook: facebook.com/LeeGriffinForCongress
Q: What would be your top priorities as a U.S. representative over the next two years?
A: My top priority would be working to ensure a strong recovery from the coronavirus outbreak for everyone. Our recovery will take some time, and the federal government needs to be there to support small business, farms and workers as we rebuild our economy. Another top priority of mine is health care. Too many families can’t afford the cost of treatment or medication they need. We need to bring down the costs of medications and treatments and ensure that everyone has coverage. Additionally, climate change needs to be addressed with green energy, cutting carbon emissions and carbon capture initiatives. We need to act swiftly and decisively to prevent the worst effects from happening and ensure a brighter future for us all.
Q: The landmark Shelby v. Holder decision overturned protections in the Voting Rights Act of 1965 that required certain states and local governments to obtain federal preclearance before implementing voting laws or practices. Since then, the U.S. has experienced a surge of legislation that makes it more difficult for many people to vote. What voting reforms do you see as essential to making U.S. elections accessible and secure?
A: The right to vote is an essential part of our country’s foundation, and it should not be infringed upon. Voting should be celebrated, encouraged and made simple for voters. Groups like Fair Fight do great work to ensure voting rights are protected. Pennsylvania has set a strong example with Act 77, with improvements to the process that include voting by mail and funding for counties to upgrade their voting systems. The federal government should provide funding to states to follow Pennsylvania’s lead to make upgrades to their systems and ensure there are enough voting machines and poll workers at each polling place. The federal government should also strengthen the Voting Rights Act and work to improve access to voting across the nation.
Q: How would you go about finding consensus and reducing gridlock in Washington, D.C.?
A: Building consensus is about setting aside differences, focusing on shared goals and genuinely valuing the perspective of those you disagree with. Debate is healthy, and engaging with differing points of view makes us better. I would make it a point to build relationships with representatives from across the aisle and seek their input on issues to develop mutual respect. Unfortunately, money can also be a barrier to building that consensus. I would vote to protect our elections and lawmaking process from the influence of powerful special interests. I also support overturning the Citizens United decision as an important measure. We need representatives who are willing to work across party lines to serve the people and not special interests.
Fred Keller
Party: Rep
County: Snyder
Education: Shikellamy High School
Qualifications: 25 years in wood products manufacturing, including as manager of Conestoga Wood Specialties’ Beavertown factory overseeing $50 million budget and 250 employees. Started a successful small business in residential construction and management; 8.5 years as state rep in the Pennsylvania General Assembly.
Campaign website: fredkellerforcongress.com
Facebook: facebook.com/VoteFredKeller
Twitter: twitter.com/VoteFredKeller
Q: What would be your top priorities as a U.S. representative over the next two years?
A: My top priorities are the top priorities of the people of Pennsylvania’s 12th Congressional District, including combatting the public health and economic impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic; helping our small businesses and workers keep more of their money by lowering taxes and reducing excessive government regulation; supporting regional infrastructure projects like the Central Susquehanna Valley Thruway and the I-99 corridor project while expanding rural broadband access to support telehealth, education and commerce; and providing relief for our nation’s farmers.
Q: The landmark Shelby v. Holder decision overturned protections in the Voting Rights Act of 1965 that required certain states and local governments to obtain federal preclearance before implementing voting laws or practices. Since then, the U.S. has experienced a surge of legislation that makes it more difficult for many people to vote. What voting reforms do you see as essential to making U.S. elections accessible and secure?
A: The 15h Amendment to the United States Constitution prohibits the federal and state governments from denying a citizen the right to vote “on account of race, color, or previous condition of servitude,” and the 19th Amendment protects the voting rights of all sexes. As a member of Congress, I will protect these important constitutional rights while making every effort to combat voter fraud and uphold the integrity of our elections.
Q: How would you go about finding consensus and reducing gridlock in Washington, D.C.?
A: We have already had success in working stakeholders and members of both parties to pass legislation that benefits the people of PA-12. For instance, we introduced and passed with bipartisan support language to the Older Americans Act strengthening health care protections for seniors by adding fall-related traumatic brain injuries to the list of conditions covered by the law. We worked with the National Association of State Head Injury Administrators, health care providers across PA-12 and members of Congress from both parties to find consensus. We also drafted and introduced with bipartisan support legislation to stop the Bureau of Prisons from moving inmates during the pandemic to protect the health and safety of the PA-12 residents.
Pennsylvania District 15
Candidates (choose 1):
Robert Williams
Party: Dem
County: Clearfield
Did not respond to questions
Glenn “GT” Thompson
Party: Rep
County: Centre
Education: B.S., Penn State; M.A, Temple University
Qualifications: Former therapist and licensed nursing home administrator; Former Bald Eagle school board member; Former Centre County GOP chairman; member of Congress PA-5 (2009-2019); member of Congress PA-15 (current).
Campaign website: gtthompson.com
Facebook: facebook.com/TeamGT
Twitter: twitter.com/gt_teamgt
Q: What would be your top priorities as a U.S. representative over the next two years?
A: COVID-19 has altered the health and livelihoods of millions, presenting great uncertainty. My immediate priority is to address public health challenges, while also supporting workers and small businesses, so the economy can regain footing and continue with the unprecedented growth we have seen over the past few years. While there is much uncertainty, there are opportunities to use technology to advance our everyday lives and business. This is true for many sectors of our economy, including health care, agriculture, manufacturing and education. I have led in Congress on agriculture, telehealth and technical education. I will continue to build upon those successes while also being a strong voice and advocate for the constituents.
Q: The landmark Shelby v. Holder decision overturned protections in the Voting Rights Act of 1965 that required certain states and local governments to obtain federal preclearance before implementing voting laws or practices. Since then, the U.S. has experienced a surge of legislation that makes it more difficult for many people to vote. What voting reforms do you see as essential to making U.S. elections accessible and secure?
A: The Voting Rights Act has been instrumental in increasing minority registration and ballot access. The Shelby v. Holder ruling maintains preclearance requirements, but applies it only to jurisdictions currently subject to a court order. Pennsylvania is not one of those states. The court presented Congress with a historic opportunity to craft a new formula that will cover areas with evidence of discrimination. This is not a partisan issue, all Americans should push for inclusion and participation in the electoral process. However, the assertion that it is more difficult to vote does not reflect the data. In 2018, minority voting was at an all time high, with Latino votes doubling since 2014, and African American and white turnout up by 10%.
Q: How would you go about finding consensus and reducing gridlock in Washington, D.C.?
A: As a founding member of the Problem Solvers Caucus, I have worked in a bipartisan manner with my colleagues to achieve common ground and consensus throughout the legislative process. I credit my career in health care and my volunteer experiences, whether with the Scouts, as an EMT and firefighter, or as a school board member, with providing me the ability to work with people from all walks of life. Georgetown University’s McCourt School of Public Policy issues a bipartisan index each Congress. I was ranked 42 out of 435 members. I do not strive for this ranking, it’s a product of how I operate. I believe the constituents expect this from their voice in Washington. It is an honor to serve them and I am humbled by their continued support.
Pennsylvania State Representative
Description of office: In Pennsylvania, the legislative branch of government is composed of two houses: The Senate is the upper house and the General Assembly is the lower house. A majority vote by both houses is necessary to pass a law.
Term: Two years
Salary: $90,335
District 76
Candidates (choose 1):
Joe Waltz
Party: Dem
County: Clinton
Education: Graduate of Montoursville High School and Mansfield University with a degree in education.
Qualifications: Served as an educator for 34 years, active in various local organizations including City of Lock Haven Planning Commission and chairman of the Clinton County Democratic Party.
Campaign website: electjoewaltz.com
Facebook: facebook.com/ElectJoeWaltz
Twitter: twitter.com/ElectJoeWaltz
Q: Access to the ballot box is one of the most important rights for a citizen. Although Pennsylvania recently modernized its election code, there are other reforms that would further modernize Pennsylvania’s elections. If elected, what reforms would you support to ensure that all citizens who want to vote are able to securely, privately, and independently cast a ballot?
A: As indicated, Pennsylvania recently modernized its election process with reforms that I heartily support. Yet another reform that I would support includes allowing for voter preregistration. This would allow a young person to register to vote even if they don’t turn 18 before the next election day. Providing this opportunity would ensure that the individual is registered and able to vote as soon as eligible. This preregistration could even be done in a high school class setting in the hopes of increasing civic engagement as well as voter turnout at election time.
Q: While there have been some positive legislative actions recently, partisan gridlock in Harrisburg has taken its toll, and many people feel that Pennsylvania’s state government is dysfunctional. What types of reforms, if any, would you support to make the legislative process in Harrisburg more effective?
A: I believe that first and foremost gerrymandering needs to be quickly eliminated. At the moment, hard line politicians who represent districts that have been drawn in a hyper partisan way have little incentive to work across the aisle in order to get anything done for the citizens of Pennsylvania. It is difficult for challengers to succeed in those districts, which continues the status quo. Ensuring districts are fairly formulated, not on the basis of voting patterns and partisan strongholds, will help ensure our elections are fairer and that Pennsylvania’s voices are heard at the ballot box. it would also ease stalemate as new ideas and leaders are elected to serve.
Q: Do you support a state constitutional amendment to form an independent commission to redraw congressional and legislative districts? Why or why not?
A: Absolutely, yes. Congressional districts were recently redrawn, but Pennsylvania’s legislative districts are still among the worst gerrymandered in the country. I feel that the voters of our commonwealth should decide who will represent us, not the power brokers in Harrisburg who currently draw up legislative districts to serve their own interests.
Q: 2020 marks the 30th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act. However, many barriers still exist for people with disabilities. What will you do as a state legislator to improve accessibility for people with disabilities across the commonwealth?
A: Recently I read an article that called the internet the new Main Street, suggesting that the use of technology needs to be as accessible to those with disabilities as are public buildings. Start with the availability of high-speed internet for all, which I support, and it could include speech-to-text and screen readers software that can also be used with videos and other content. Now, persons with disabilities can apply for jobs online and possibly even work from home, as well as attend higher education classes remotely to increase job skills. I would also support efforts to encourage businesses to provide specific training for persons with disabilities, which would provide more opportunities for our handicapped and disabled population.
Stephanie Borowicz
Party: Rep
County: Clinton
Did not respond to questions
District 77
Candidates (choose 1):
H. Scott Conklin
Party: Dem
County: Centre
Education: Philipsburg-Osceola Area High School; Clearfield County Career and Technical School
Qualifications: Served as board chairman of Centre County, chairman of the Salary Board, Retirement Board member, Employee Benefits Trust Member, and Board of Assessment Member, prior to representing the 77th Legislative District. Also a business owner in Centre County.
Campaign website: conklinforpa.com
Facebook: facebook.com/ConklinForPA
Twitter: twitter.com/Conklinforpa
Q: Access to the ballot box is one of the most important rights for a citizen. Although Pennsylvania recently modernized its election code, there are other reforms that would further modernize Pennsylvania’s elections. If elected, what reforms would you support to ensure that all citizens who want to vote are able to securely, privately, and independently cast a ballot?
A: Voting in our elections is a right afforded to all Pennsylvania citizens and should be both protected and expanded. I support reforms that would allow for automatic and early voting, along with encouraging the federal government to restoring the Voting Rights Act. If Pennsylvania can modernize voting, while continuing to maintain the integrity of election security, I believe that we will see increased voter turnout and more involvement in our political process. Additionally, voters in more rural areas should have the same access to modern and secure voting machines as those in the southeast and southwest, and I support standardizing our voting processes across the state, in a secure fashion.
Q: While there have been some positive legislative actions recently, partisan gridlock in Harrisburg has taken its toll, and many people feel that Pennsylvania’s state government is dysfunctional. What types of reforms, if any, would you support to make the legislative process in Harrisburg more effective?
A: When I was first elected to the House in 2006, I supported a number of reforms to help heal the gap in trust Pennsylvanians held with their government. We stopped midnight voting so that we were accountable to the people, and increased governmental transparency by creating open records laws. Today, I support any reforms that make the legislative process more effective, while also protecting the rights of Pennsylvanians. I believe that an independent redistricting commission is a vital step to ensure that voters are accurately represented in Harrisburg.
Q: Do you support a state constitutional amendment to form an independent commission to redraw congressional and legislative districts? Why or why not?
A: The current system that Pennsylvania utilizes for redistricting is outdated and advantageous to whichever political party holds a majority at the time of the national census. I support reforming this process to create an independent redistricting commission that would redraw both congressional and legislative districts. Once Pennsylvanians are fairly represented, then Pennsylvania will truly have a government of, by and for the people.
Q: 2020 marks the 30th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act. However, many barriers still exist for people with disabilities. What will you do as a state legislator to improve accessibility for people with disabilities across the commonwealth?
A: The Declaration of Independence clearly states that every American deserves life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. That right is only possible if we all have a standard of accessibility to public resources that are meant for everyone. In other words, I support reforms that would improve accessibility for people with disabilities to government resources and programs. The Centre region has done a terrific job of ensuring that those with disabilities are able to utilize the programs available. In Harrisburg, I will fight to ensure that these programs are sustained and expanded so that no one is left behind.
Steve Yetsko
Party: Rep
County: Centre
Education: Bachelor of Science in economics from Penn State with honors in economics
Campaign website: letsgowithyetsko.com
Q: Access to the ballot box is one of the most important rights for a citizen. Although Pennsylvania recently modernized its election code, there are other reforms that would further modernize Pennsylvania’s elections. If elected, what reforms would you support to ensure that all citizens who want to vote are able to securely, privately, and independently cast a ballot?
A: I have voted in the 77th District for the past 20 years and I have always been able to securely, privately and independently cast my ballot. I’m sure there are other reforms that would further modernize Pennsylvania’s elections, and I would be delighted to consider them for my support. I don’t think there is currently a big issue with disenfranchisement in the 77th District, but if there is I would want to know about it. Free and fair elections are very important to me.
Q: While there have been some positive legislative actions recently, partisan gridlock in Harrisburg has taken its toll, and many people feel that Pennsylvania’s state government is dysfunctional. What types of reforms, if any, would you support to make the legislative process in Harrisburg more effective?
A: Since the mid-March shutdown, Pennsylvania’s state government has become completely dysfunctional. The governor has been given the ability to rule by decree, with no legislative or public discussion. The governor’s arbitrary and opaque decisions create many serious concerns about civil and religious liberties. There needs to be serious discussion about legislative limits on executive power.
Q: Do you support a state constitutional amendment to form an independent commission to redraw congressional and legislative districts? Why or why not?
A: The Pennsylvania 77th District is definitely a gerrymandered district, and became even more gerrymandered during the last redistricting. I am not opposed to a state constitutional amendment in this regard, but I would need to see details before I could support it. I would need to understand how “independent” the independent commission really was. The organization Fair Districts PA has some great ideas in this regard.
Q: 2020 marks the 30th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act. However, many barriers still exist for people with disabilities. What will you do as a state legislator to improve accessibility for people with disabilities across the commonwealth?
A: We would have to specifically look at the many barriers that exist and address them individually.
District 81
Candidates (choose 1):
Ian M. Kidd
Party: Dem
County: Huntingdon
Did not respond to questions
Rich Irvin
Party: Rep
County: Huntingdon
Education: Juniata Valley HS; Indiana University of Pennsylvania — BS accounting 1994
Qualifications: 18 years Huntingdon County treasurer and currently serving as state representative
Q: Access to the ballot box is one of the most important rights for a citizen. Although Pennsylvania recently modernized its election code, there are other reforms that would further modernize Pennsylvania’s elections. If elected, what reforms would you support to ensure that all citizens who want to vote are able to securely, privately, and independently cast a ballot?
A: My 11th grade civics teacher always told us to “exercise your right to vote.” As a Pennsylvania citizen we have options to register to vote: while renewing driver’s license, online, in person at our elections office and by mail. We must continue to educate the electorate that your vote does matter, elections have been decided by only one vote. Security in voting is the complaint I hear most often. Many residents feel elections can be swayed by individuals registered to vote in more than one county or state. With the passage of no question absentee voting and adjusting the time frame election boards can receive mail in ballots, I expect more voters to use this new system to cast their vote.
Q: While there have been some positive legislative actions recently, partisan gridlock in Harrisburg has taken its toll, and many people feel that Pennsylvania’s state government is dysfunctional. What types of reforms, if any, would you support to make the legislative process in Harrisburg more effective?
A: In my opinion there are many parts of Pennsylvania’s state government that are dysfunctional. Too many of our state agencies are run by career bureaucrats whom legislate the law through regulations passed on to the citizens of Pennsylvania just trying to start a business, earn a living and raise their family. Common sense can go a long way in Harrisburg and that is what I do my best to take with me every time I make a vote on behalf of the 81st District.
Q: Do you support a state constitutional amendment to form an independent commission to redraw Congressional and legislative districts? Why or why not?
A: For the past two sessions I have supported and co-sponsored legislation to form an independent commission. Voters should choose their legislator not the other way around.
Q: 2020 marks the 30th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act. However, many barriers still exist for people with disabilities. What will you do as a state legislator to improve accessibility for people with disabilities across the commonwealth?
A: Everyone is entitled to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness regardless of a disability. The biggest issue I have experienced with the Disabilities Act is, when an individual is working to advance their career, pay could put their disability and medical benefits in jeopardy by earning too much money. Once they reach that earnings level all assistance could be removed and the disabled individual would otherwise not be able to afford to live on the pay level they worked so hard to reach. Government should not inhibit individuals from working to their maximum potential.
District 171
Candidates (choose 1):
Peter Buck
Party: Dem
County: Centre
Education: Ph.D. educational theory and policy, Penn State
Qualifications: Current: chair, Intergovernmental Solar Working Group; vice chair, Climate Adaptation and Action Plan Technical Advisory Group; president-elect, Pennsylvania Environmental Resource Consortium; Former: chair, Ferguson Township Board of Supervisors; member, Centre Region Council of Governments
Campaign website: buckforpa.com
Facebook: facebook.com/BuckForPA
Twitter: twitter.com/buckforpa
Q: Access to the ballot box is one of the most important rights for a citizen. Although Pennsylvania recently modernized its election code, there are other reforms that would further modernize Pennsylvania’s elections. If elected, what reforms would you support to ensure that all citizens who want to vote are able to securely, privately, and independently cast a ballot?
A: I support open primaries and ranked choice voting. While I am in a party, I believe they have too much control of our elections. Elections in a fair and free country should be both fair and free. By limiting people’s choices, we gag the expression of voters’ values. Ranked choice voting is working in many places. While slightly more complicated, ranked choice voting can be handled by modern technology and voter education quite easily. We can create a system that weighs our preferences better than the blunt either-or system that’s in place.
Q: While there have been some positive legislative actions recently, partisan gridlock in Harrisburg has taken its toll, and many people feel that Pennsylvania’s state government is dysfunctional. What types of reforms, if any, would you support to make the legislative process in Harrisburg more effective?
A: I support a limit on individual campaign contributions. Having looked at some of the contributions from individuals with deep pockets to some of my future colleagues and seeing their voting records, I’m appalled. This is legal bribery that I am committed to ending. I support shrinking the lower chamber’s size by 1/3, from 203 to around 140. The state House of Representatives is just too big, too expensive and bogged down in pointless gridlock. After our next census, we should begin the process to a smaller more efficient House. I support legislation to slow down the revolving door of legislator to lobbyist. The natural gas industry is a notably bad actor in this space.
Q: Do you support a state constitutional amendment to form an independent commission to redraw congressional and legislative districts? Why or why not?
A: Yes. A free people need fair representation. When legislators draw voting maps, they will do so in order to keep themselves in power no matter what party they are in. Human nature and the nature of holding onto political office will override almost any legislators’ sense of fairness. That’s what happened in Pennsylvania, as legislators worked behind the scenes with a lot of data to make maps that work for them and their fat cat donors and special interests. A constitutional amendment that forms an independent commission will ensure a fair process that makes maps by and for the people.
Q: 2020 marks the 30th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act. However, many barriers still exist for people with disabilities. What will you do as a state legislator to improve accessibility for people with disabilities across the commonwealth?
A: The Americans with Disabilities Act touches nearly every aspect of our society and economy. As a Unitarian Universalist, I believe in the dignity of all people. I have three statements, from the personal to policy. First, my staff will do everything we can to create a welcoming environment for disabled people. Second, we must address issues of acceptance, stigma and discrimination by being mindful of the challenges of all people by talking about ableness and sharing and listening to stories. Third, and most importantly, I would follow the Employment First Commission’s October 2019 recommendations to support inclusive and competitive employment, accreditation, education, and funding that increases compliance and enforcement.
Kerry A. Benninghoff
Party: Rep
County: Centre
Education: State College Area High School; Penn State
Qualifications: Former health care worker; two-term Centre County coroner; multiple terms as state legislator — Finance, State Government and Policy Committee chairman; chairman — Cancer Caucus
Facebook: facebook.com/RepBenninghoff
Q: Access to the ballot box is one of the most important rights for a citizen. Although Pennsylvania recently modernized its election code, there are other reforms that would further modernize Pennsylvania’s elections. If elected, what reforms would you support to ensure that all citizens who want to vote are able to securely, privately, and independently cast a ballot?
A: I am proud to have worked on and voted “yes” to the most significant package of election law improvements in 75 years. We, the legislature, provided $90 million in state aid to help counties pay to replace their voting machines that Gov. Wolf unilaterally outlawed. In addition, our legislation allows Pennsylvanians to vote by mail without extenuating circumstances and to submit their absentee or mail-in ballots up to 8 p.m. on election day. The bill also moved voter registration deadlines to 15 days prior to an election and added an additional $4 million for census outreach in Pennsylvania.
Q: While there have been some positive legislative actions recently, partisan gridlock in Harrisburg has taken its toll, and many people feel that Pennsylvania’s state government is dysfunctional. What types of reforms, if any, would you support to make the legislative process in Harrisburg more effective?
A: Most legislation that is passed is usually “agreed to” in a bipartisan manner and vote. When 4,000-plus bill ideas are introduced each year to become law, you need a very deliberate process both in committee as well as the House floor to sift out those bills where agreement can be reached. While many people think emotional debate and even disagreement is a negative thing, it is actually beneficial. Similar to the process of tempering steel, you take raw material, heat and hammer it and eventually pound or mold it into the desired end product. In much the same way, the legislative process is deliberate and insightful but not immediate, so that the final product is not written by quick, raw emotions, but researched deliberation and debate.
Q: Do you support a state constitutional amendment to form an independent commission to redraw congressional and legislative districts? Why or why not?
A: As a legislator, I have co-sponsored redistricting bills to remove “politics” from the process. I continue to be open to these ideas and have participated in many local discussions on this. I want to be careful to not replace one undesirable system with another potentially flawed one. Our democracy is too valuable to allow any special interest to gerrymander legislative districts. It is important to note that my office serves anyone who contacts us regardless of their “assigned” legislative district or their political affiliation.
Q: 2020 marks the 30th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act. However, many barriers still exist for people with disabilities. What will you do as a state legislator to improve accessibility for people with disabilities across the commonwealth?
A: One of the most significant roles of our commonwealth is to take care of those facing challenges beyond their control. These challenges, while varied, should not limit these individuals from enjoying a happy and engaging life in their communities. I enjoy supporting local events, fundraisers and legislation to assist in gaining employment for our citizens with intellectual disabilities. I have also sponsored legislation to ensure support services can be provided to them while living in their family’s home or other community-based settings.