Learn about who’s running to represent Centre County in the US House, PA General Assembly

Pennsylvania US Representative District 15

Description of office: The U.S. 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 U.S. 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.

Term: 2 years

Salary: $174,000

Vote for ONE.

Zach Womer

Party: Democratic

County: Centre

Occupation: Student

Education: B.A. in Psychology from Denison University. Current 1L in Penn State Law’s Juris Doctorate program.

Qualifications: Board Member of the Centre County Mental Health, Intellectual Disability, and Early Intervention Board.

Campaign website: womeforpa.com

Facebook: www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61556749914906

Q: What changes, if any, would you support that would help Congress function more efficiently and effectively?

A: I strongly support institutional changes that remove corporate influence in elections, make congressional races more competitive, and better represent the country’s voters. At present, we have an uncompetitive system backed by corporations, which causes ideological gridlock, except when those backed by corporations want to kick back to the folks who got them elected. If we want Congress to function well, we need to clean up the corruption, polarization, and nonsense in our system.

Q: What legislation would you support to protect voting rights and safeguard access to free and fair elections?

A: I support any and all legislation that makes it easier for American citizens to vote. Most prominently, I believe election day ought to be a national holiday so that hard-working Americans can still access the polls. Beyond that, I would support legislation that greatly enhances the civic education of Americans so that more people in the country understand just what they are voting for.

Q: How do you view the role of the US in responding to challenges facing the international community?

A: I believe that the United States certainly has a role in international aid, however, what is unacceptable is when the United States takes care of foreign nations before ensuring the needs of its own citizens are taken care of. In the present moment, there are massive issues in the United States, and I am quite perturbed that the so-called, “elites” of our country are significantly more focused on international affairs rather than our own.

Glenn “GT” Thompson

Party: Republican

County: Centre

Occupation: Member of Congress, PA-15

Education: B.S. from the Pennsylvania State University, M.A. from Temple University

Qualifications: Former Bald Eagle Area School Board Member; former Centre County GOP Chairman; Member of Congress PA-5 (2009-2019); Member of Congress PA-15 (2020-Current), National Distinguished Eagle Scout Award winner (2016): Chairman of the U.S. House Agriculture Committee (2020-Current)

Campaign website: GTThompson.com

Facebook: facebook.com/TeamGT

X: @GT_TeamGT

Instagram: www.instagram.com/teamcongressmangt

Q: What do you see as the most pressing issues facing the country, and how would you address them?

A: The metrics might suggest the economy is doing well, but at the end of the day people are feeling very different. We have more than nine million jobs open, with an alarming amount of people unemployed and under-employed. Meanwhile, our southern border remains unsecured, creating a massive humanitarian crisis and security concerns. We need to get this work done. In Congress, I have consistently worked in a bipartisan manner to achieve common ground. I credit my career in healthcare, lifetime in scouting, and working as an EMT and firefighter. Each provided me the ability to work with people from all walks of life. I believe the constituents expect no less. It is an honor to serve them and I am humbled by their continued support.

Q: What changes, if any, would you support that would help Congress function more efficiently and effectively?

A: Congress was designed to have checks and balances. This was deliberate and the legislative process is not easy. However, I do not believe the process is flawed, but rather it is often hijacked by bad actors, who are starved for media attention. Every day I work to find common ground with my colleagues from both sides of the aisle. This has led to collaboration on a lot of issues, from serving our veterans, bringing tele-medicine to rural communities, to modernizing career and technical education. Every success starts with finding common ground with my colleagues from across the political spectrum. Building better relationships is the key to success and one thing I personally strive for to ensure a better working Congress.

Q: What legislation would you support to protect voting rights and safeguard access to free and fair elections?

A: Free and fair elections are the foundation of our democratic system of government. It is imperative we maintain the integrity of our electoral process and ensure every eligible American’s right to vote. While I encourage efforts to reduce illegal activities in our federal elections, Congress needs to respect the role state and local governments play in shaping their own electoral processes. Discrimination of any kind is completely unacceptable. This is not a partisan issue; all Americans should push for inclusion and participation in the electoral process. The 2018, 2020, and 2022 elections had the highest turn out in decades, signaling a really positive trend.

Q: How do you view the role of the US in responding to challenges facing the international community?

A: The U.S. plays a critical role in shaping international policy together with those countries that share our values. There are a number of diplomatic tools at our disposal to discourage bad actors from inflicting harm. America does more to support democracy across the globe than any other country. I am a strong supporter of the U.S. Institute of Peace, which Congress established in 1984 with President Reagan, to improve national security and global stability by reducing violent conflicts. We should always strive to mitigate conflict through diplomacy, but as an Army dad, I know we must also have the best funded, highly trained, and lethal fighting force on the planet. And we must be there for our troops when their service concludes.

Pennsylvania State Senator

Description of office: 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 Senate consists of 50 members, representing one district each, with an equal number of constituents. Senators must be at least 25 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 Senate develops budget packages, makes taxation decisions, allocates spending, and passes laws (including redistricting in collaboration with the House of Representatives). In addition, the Senate tries officials impeached by the House and authorizes executive appointments. Senators serve on various policy committees that may propose legislation. There are no term limits to this office.

Term: 4 years

Salary: $106,422

District 25

Vote for ONE.

William McGill

Party: Democratic

County: Clinton

Occupation: Retired manager in the automobile industry

Education High School Diploma

Qualifications: Sales and management in autos, insurance, small business owner, and banking

Facebook: facebook.com/profile.php?id=61557754514629

Instagram: instagram.com/williamlmcgill/

Q: What do you see as the most pressing issues facing Pennsylvanians, and how would you address them?

A: Voting rights and I would expand voting, not restrict it. Reproductive Rights and the Right to Choose for women, I will always fight for the rights of all people. Raising minimum wage by supporting any senate bill that proposes to. Broadband access in rural Pennsylvania to bring all Pennsylvania residents access to connection. Health care and stopping hospital closures in rural communities by introducing legislation to address the concern.

Q: What changes would you support making to Pennsylvania’s voting laws to expand access, ensure security, and support local election officials and processes?

A: Mail in voting is safe. It’s been tested time and time again and the courts have stated no fraud has been identified. Legislation to place the responsibility on county election offices and allowing them to do the job they are tasked with. I would support exploring easier voting by technology use of PCs and cell phone. I believe when you renew or receive a driver’s license, you should be automatically registered to vote as long as you’re a legally qualified to do so.

Q: What legislation would you support to comply with the Commonwealth Court’s ruling that Pennsylvania’s school funding system is unconstitutional and must be reformed?

A: Education is to important to leave to chance. We certainly need to fund our rural schools equally, and provide broadband and better connectivity services to accommodate students state wide.

Q: What changes, if any, would you support making to Pennsylvania’s abortion laws?

A: Pennsylvania needs to lead on this topic and protect choice by realizing abortion is Healthcare and allowing women, their partners, family, doctors and their clergy to advice them. Doctors are the experts in this issue not religion and definitely not government. This issue has no place in politics, instead it’s a private and personal decision under the care and discretion of health care providers. I will lead the charge to codify it in Pennsylvania.

Cris Dush

Party: Republican

County: Jefferson

Campaign website: DushForSenate.com

Facebook: facebook.com/DushForSenate

Did not respond to questions.

District 35

Vote for ONE.

Wayne Langerholc, Jr.

Party: Republican

County: Cambria

Campaign website: langerholcforsenate.com

Facebook: facebook.com/LangerholcForSenate

Did not respond to questions.

Pennsylvania State Representatives

Description of office: 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.

Term: 2 years

Salary: $106,422

House District 77

Vote for ONE.

H. Scott Conklin

Party: Democratic

County: Centre

Occupation: State Representative

Education: Clearfield County Vocational Technical School

Qualifications: Incumbent State Representative, former Centre County Commissioner, former small business owner

Campaign website: linktree.com/conklinforpa

Facebook: facebook.com/ScottConklinPA

X: @ScottConklinPA

Instagram: instagram.com/scottconklinpa

Q: What do you see as the most pressing issues facing Pennsylvanians, and how would you address them?

A: Protecting personal freedoms, the right to vote, and ensuring all Pennsylvanians are heard. Protecting our environment so farmers can continue to produce, the outdoors can be enjoyed, and our children have a future home. Protecting workers’ rights. We need to ensure that every worker in the Commonwealth receives good wages and is treated with dignity in the workplace.

Q: What changes would you support making to Pennsylvania’s voting laws to expand access, ensure security, and support local election officials and processes?

A: My election package would address the issues that have arisen. It would allow pre-canvassing and put in clearer guidelines for the system. We also need to step back and publicly appreciate and support the public servants who step forward year after year to ensure our elections are fair and secure. Public officials need to step forward and clearly articulate the process to regain trust where it has been lost. The procedures are in place and need to be publicized over and over again.

Q: What legislation would you support to comply with the Commonwealth Court’s ruling that Pennsylvania’s school funding system is unconstitutional and must be reformed?

A: The governor’s budget proposal goes a long way to address the education funding issues we face. The initiatives he has put forth on reforming higher education and the bold investments he has put toward public schools are a great starting point for the discussion that will unfold. I look forward to working with him and my colleagues to address the need this ruling clearly illustrates.

Q: What changes, if any, would you support making to Pennsylvania’s abortion laws?

A: Big government should not tell us what we can do with our bodies, who we can love, and who we must worship. The right to bodily autonomy should be enshrined in the Pennsylvania Constitution. Full stop.

Marie Librizzi

Party: Republican

County: Centre

Occupation: Business owner

Qualifications: Immediate Past Commander United States Coast Guard Auxiliary. Created 4 successful businesses in Centre County using fiscal responsibility. Integrity and honor are my core values which has made people trust me with decisions that would effect their lives.

Campaign website: marieforpa77.com

Facebook: facebook.com/marie.librizziMUl

Q: What do you see as the most pressing issues facing Pennsylvanians, and how would you address them?

A: Government spending is out of control. Our legislators, for years, have not stood up to this fact. We must limit our spending to that which is necessary and cut wasteful spending that does no good for anyone. Trillion dollar deficits will ruin the country. Pa citizens cannot run their personal finances the way the government runs the budget. It’s time to finally quit “kicking the can down the road” and put the country & Pa on a sustainable monetary path.When government provides sound fiscal policy, it encourages business growth and the jobs that follow. business and jobs are lost. Over regulation of business activities does the same thing.

Q: What changes would you support making to Pennsylvania’s voting laws to expand access, ensure security, and support local election officials and processes?

A: I would support a law that makes it clear that only legal state residents are permitted to vote. Every citizen would be required to show proof of citizenship when they register and also show a state issued ID when they vote. Absentee and mail in voters would be required to include the number from their state issued ID on their ballot. Absentee and mail in ballot voters should only be permitted to deliver their ballots to county and municipal offices during normal business hours or have them delivered by the USPS.

Q: What legislation would you support to comply with the Commonwealth Court’s ruling that Pennsylvania’s school funding system is unconstitutional and must be reformed?

A: HB 2370 is far from perfect but at least it puts Pennsylvania’s school districts on a road to providing equitable funding. It is imperative that school districts look to implement sound management practices so that any waste in school district operations can be eliminated. Far too long administrators have made decisions without the knowledge or input from the staff who see the funding issues as they relate to the education of our children. I would propose a team be established in every school which included parents, office staff and teachers who would advise administration on funding priorities.

Q: What changes, if any, would you support making to Pennsylvania’s abortion laws?

A: I would suggest an amendment resulting from questions posed on the ballot at an election. These answers would allow the citizens of PA to vote on any changes. The abortion issue is a private and personal issue. What our PA residents choose and vote for would allow their input and not have the decisions of elected officials forced upon them.

House District 82

Vote for ONE.

Paul Takac

Party: Democratic

County: Centre

Occupation: PA State Representative

Education B.A. SUNY at Buffalo, M.A. Southern Methodist University, M.S. Maryland University of Integrated Health

Qualifications Incumbent. 30+ years experience in business, education, and government.

Campaign website: paultakac.com

Facebook: facebook.com/PaulTakacPA

X: @PaulTakac_PA

Instagram: Instagram.com/paultakac_pa

Q: What do you see as the most pressing issues facing Pennsylvanians, and how would you address them?

A: Full and fair funding for public education, including relief for local taxpayers, cyber charter reform, college affordability, and expansion of career and technical education. Protecting individual freedom, including reproductive, LGBTQ+, and voting rights. Ensuring affordable and accessible healthcare, especially in underserved communities. Creating economic opportunities across PA and supporting working people and families by investing in local economies and rural areas, including housing, infrastructure, and human services. Protecting the environment and addressing climate change by reducing emissions and supporting a broad based energy portfolio, including renewable energy. Supporting first responders, veterans, and family farms.

Q: What changes would you support making to Pennsylvania’s voting laws to expand access, ensure security, and support local election officials and processes?

A: We should make it as easy as possible for every eligible voter to participate in our democracy. That is why I support maintaining the beneficial provisions of Act 77, including vote by mail, extended registration, and the use of secure drop boxes located in multiple convenient locations, especially in historically underrepresented communities. I also support same day registration, extended in person voting opportunities, and allowing independent voters to participate in party primaries. I also believe we must minimize barriers to timely administration of elections by allowing pre-canvassing and expediting ballot curing or correction. And lastly, I support budgetary and legislative support to help protect our election workers.

Q: What legislation would you support to comply with the Commonwealth Court’s ruling that Pennsylvania’s school funding system is unconstitutional and must be reformed?

A: As a member of the Education Committee, and someone who benefited from a high-quality public education and spent his career working with educators, I have no greater priority than ensuring that every child in PA has the opportunities and resources they need to succeed, regardless of zip code. I fully support the recommendations in the majority report of the Basic Education Funding Commission and have voted in favor of every effort thus far to enact them. They include increased state funding for districts with an insufficient tax base or with greater numbers of students with specialized needs, property tax relief for overburdened local taxpayers, and the reform of cyber charter school reimbursements, reporting, and transparency.

Q: What changes, if any, would you support making to Pennsylvania’s abortion laws?

A: Like the majority of Pennsylvanians, I believe we must protect the freedom of everyone to control their own bodies and make their own reproductive healthcare decisions, including abortion. Such decisions are deeply personal and must only be made by that person and their doctor. The government has no role or standing in that decision. I not only oppose any new restrictions but fully support enshrining such constitutional protections at both the federal and state level. I also support shielding PA healthcare providers and patients from out of state investigations, prosecutions, or sanctions. Finally, I oppose public funding of any organization that does not provide counseling on the full range of reproductive healthcare options available.

Therese Hollen

Party: Republican

County: Centre

Occupation: Retired

Education: B.S. in Education

Qualifications: 36 years in medical sales working for international companies and start up companies. Additionally, a decade of self employment as a business owner. Taught for several years in various central Pennsylvania school districts.

Campaign website: electhollen.com

X: @ThereseHollen

Facebook: www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61558938064390

Q: What do you see as the most pressing issues facing Pennsylvanians, and how would you address them?

A: Pennsylvanians are worried about the economy, inflation, and illegal immigration, which is linked to rising crime. Many feel our government has left them behind, but it’s time to put their needs first. Reducing red tape and cutting taxes in Harrisburg will help businesses thrive and create more opportunities in the 82nd district. We can also fight inflation by tapping into Pennsylvania’s energy resources, lowering costs for essentials like heating and groceries. Illegal immigration has turned every state into a border state, bringing more violent crime. As your state representative, I’ll stand against legislation that puts others ahead of Pennsylvanians.

Q: What changes would you support making to Pennsylvania’s voting laws to expand access, ensure security, and support local election officials and processes?

A: As a representative, I would support an exploratory committee to research blockchain voting technology and advocate for strict chain of custody requirements for ballots. Additionally, I would push for more universal efforts to ensure the accuracy of voter rolls across the Commonwealth to restore faith in our elections across the board.

Q: What legislation would you support to comply with the Commonwealth Court’s ruling that Pennsylvania’s school funding system is unconstitutional and must be reformed?

A: The burden of school funding should not fall solely on property owners. However, we must create a system that delivers a strong public education because our children deserve the best chance for success. As a former teacher in Pennsylvania’s “T,” I’ve seen firsthand the importance of providing economically disadvantaged students with the best opportunities. We must balance and address the needs of our students by offering the best learning environments, whether that’s through traditional public schools, online programs, or private charter schools.

Q: What changes, if any, would you support making to Pennsylvania’s abortion laws?

A: I believe abortion is such a personal issue that every Pennsylvanian should have the direct right to vote on our abortion laws. I pledge to fight for any abortion legislation to be decided by ballot, giving Pennsylvanians the opportunity to have a direct say. In a state as diverse as ours, this is the only way to truly govern an issue as private as abortion—allowing the people to choose the laws that govern us. Whether Pro-Choice or Pro-Life, the people must have a voice in shaping this legislation.

House District 171

Vote for ONE.

Kerry A. Benninghoff

Party: Republican

County: Centre

Campaign website: benninghoff171.com

Facebook: facebook.com/profile.php?id=100068808596148

Did not respond to questions.

This story was originally published October 13, 2024 at 6:43 AM.