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League of Women Voters 2026 Voters Guide

This Voters Guide was prepared by the League of Women Voters of Washington County and the League of Women Voters of Pennsylvania with the support of the Observer-Reporter.

The League of Women Voters is a non-partisan organization and does not support or oppose any political party or candidate. Nothing in this guide should be construed as an endorsement of any candidate by the League of Women Voters. Its purpose is to promote political responsibility through informed and active participation of citizens in government.

The Voters Guide listings are based entirely on material submitted by the candidates and appears as submitted with no editorial correction by the League. All candidates were sent questionnaires to email or USPS addresses of record. In cases in which questionnaires were not returned, only the candidate’s name, party, and website are listed. The guide lists all candidates in the May 19, 2026, Primary for Governor, Lieutenant Governor, US Representative in Congress, Pennsylvania State Senate, Pennsylvania State House of Representatives.

Study the guide and choose the candidates for whom you want to vote. You may take the guide into the voting booth to help you.

Voters who are not sure if they are registered to vote should call the Washington County Elections Office 724-228-6750 or go to pavoterservices. pa.gov and select “Find Voter Registration Status.”

MUNICIPAL ELECTION

May 19, 2026

Polls open 7 A.M. to 8 P.M.

This guide may be taken into the voting booth.

Identification Requirements for New Voters

If you are a new voter or if you are voting at a polling place for the first time, you must have your voter ID card or a photo ID such as a driver’s license, Passport 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 containing your home address. If you do not have any acceptable ID, you must be allowed to vote by provisional ballot.

Election Day Problems and Provisional Ballots

If your right to vote is challenged at the polls on Election Day, the Judge of Elections at the polling place may telephone the Washington County Elections Office. The issue may be resolved by phone if your name appears on the county records. If it cannot, you should 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.

If you experience or observe voter intimidation at your polling place, call the Election Protection hotline.

1-866-OUR-VOTE (866-687-8683)

1-888-VE-Y-VOTA (en Espanol) (888-839-8682)

1-301-818-VOTE (National Association of the Deaf Hotline (301-818-8683)

Absentee Voting

Registered voters who are ill, disabled, or will be absent from the municipality on Election Day may vote by absentee ballot. Completed absentee ballots must be received back at the Elections Office by 8 P.M. on Tuesday, May 19, 2026.

Mail-in Voting

Voters have the option to vote by mail without providing any reason or excuse.

Completed mail-in ballots must be received at the Elections Office by 8 P.M. Election Day, May 19, 2026 to be counted.

You may NOT return a ballot for anyone else, even someone in your household (unless that voter has a disability and designates an agent in writing). For individuals requiring assistance in voting or returning a ballot, contact the Washington County Elections Office at 724-228-6750.

Pennsylvania Governor

Term:

4 years Salary: $253,870

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.

Vote for ONE.

DEMOCRAT REPUBLICAN

Josh Shapiro

Biographical Info

County: Montgomery

Occupation: Governor of Pennsylvania

Education: University of Rochester, BA; Georgetown University Law Center, JD

Qualifications: Governor of Pennsylvania, who is fighting every day to Get Stuff

Done and protect real freedom in our Commonwealth.

Campaign Website: joshshapiro.org

Facebook URL: facebook.com/JoshShapiroPA/

X Handle: JoshShapiroPA

Instagram URL: instagram.com/joshshapiropa/

Q: What are the most pressing issues facing Pennsylvania residents, and how would you address them?

I’ve met with Pennsylvanians on our farms, in our cities, and everywhere in between, and I’ve found that most people want the same key things: good schools, safe communities, good-paying jobs, and their freedoms protected. As Governor, I’ve worked hard to get stuff done on these pressing issues — cutting taxes seven times, securing over $40 billion in private-sector investment, creating over 22,000 good-paying jobs, delivering historic public education funding, and improving public safety by supporting law enforcement and violence prevention programs — but there’s more work to do, and I’m going to keep fighting to ensure all Pennsylvanians have the freedom to chart their own course and the opportunity to succeed here in our Commonwealth.

Q: What are your specific ideas on the funding for public schools, private schools, and cyber charter schools to comply with the Commonwealth Court’s order?

I believe in our obligation to ensure our kids have access to a thorough and efficient public education. We’ve brought Democrats and Republicans together to invest a record amount in public education and created a new formula that drives that money out to the schools that need it most. With these investments, schools have served over 224 million free breakfasts, 3,000 more students are enrolled in career and technical education courses, the number of new teacher certifications is increasing, regular attendance and graduation rates are up, and Consumer Affairs now ranks us as one of the top states for quality public education in the entire country. I’m committed to continuing to build on that progress and delivering for all Pennsylvanians.

Q: What do you see as the state’s role regarding federal immigration policy?

I have been clear that our country needs comprehensive immigration reform in order to have a secure border, a more clear, efficient, orderly immigration process, a path to citizenship for people who have been living here lawfully, and to protect public safety. That is far from what we are seeing from Donald Trump – who has violated constitutional rights, acted outside the law, and brought chaos to communities across this country. As Governor, I have opposed many of those actions – including the Administration’s desire to bring ICE detention centers to Pennsylvania – and I will continue to protect public safety in our Commonwealth while standing up to reckless federal policies that are harming our communities.

Q: What would you do to ensure Pennsylvania elections are accessible and secure?

Our elections are free, fair, safe, and secure – and I’m continuing protect the security of our elections and our democracy in the face of threats from Donald Trump and his allies. I’m proud to have appointed Al Schmidt as Secretary of State –and since taking office, we’ve strengthened voting rights by implementing automatic voter registration, redesigning mailin ballots to reduce errors and support county election workers, launching an easy-to-use online ballot request tool, and providing voter resources in multiple languages. I have always stood up for our democracy – and I am going to continue to protect our elections and the right to vote.

Stacy Garrity

Biographical Info

County: Bradford

Occupation: Pennsylvania State Treasurer

Education: Bachelor’s Degree in Finance, Bloomsburg University

Qualifications: 30 year U.S. Army Reserve Veteran with three Combat Deployments (Col., Ret.) | Former VP at Global Tungsten & Powders

Campaign Website: garrityforpa.com

Facebook URL: facebook.com/GarrityForPA

X Handle: GarrityForPA

Instagram URL: www.instagram.com/stacyforpa/

Q: What are the most pressing issues facing Pennsylvania residents, and how would you address them?

Pennsylvania families are being squeezed by higher energy bills, failing schools, rising crime, and a government that spends too much while delivering too little. My focus will be simple: make life affordable again, restore safe communities, and create real opportunity. That means unleashing Pennsylvania energy, cutting red tape on job creators, demanding accountability in education, protecting public safety, and bringing fiscal discipline back to Harrisburg. As Treasurer, I returned over $1 billion to taxpayers. As Governor, I’ll bring that same results-driven leadership to lower costs and put Pennsylvania families first.

Q: What are your specific ideas on the funding for public schools, private schools, and cyber charter schools to comply with the Commonwealth Court’s order?

Every Pennsylvania child deserves access to a great education, no matter their ZIP code or the type of school that best fits their needs. We should absolutely support strong public schools, but families must also have meaningful choices, including charter schools, cyber charters, private schools, and scholarship opportunities. The focus should be on funding students and outcomes, not protecting systems that are failing too many kids. I will fight to ensure parents remain in the driver’s seat, expand high-quality school choice options, and demand accountability so every education dollar is helping students succeed.

Q: What do you see as the state’s role regarding federal immigration policy?

Immigration enforcement is primarily a federal responsibility, but Pennsylvania has an obligation to protect its communities and uphold the rule of law. As Governor, I will ensure state agencies fully cooperate with federal authorities when it comes to violent criminals, drug trafficking, and human trafficking. Pennsylvania should never be a sanctuary for those who break our laws. The state’s role is to keep communities safe, prevent taxpayer resources from being misused, and partner with federal officials where public safety is at stake.

Q: What would you do to ensure Pennsylvania elections are accessible and secure?

Pennsylvanians deserve elections that are easy to participate in and impossible to doubt. I support strong voter ID requirements, accurate voter rolls, chain-of-custody protections for ballots, timely counting, and consistent standards across all 67 counties. We should expand access for eligible voters through clear rules, early preparation, and welltrained local election officials, while cracking down on fraud, noncitizen voting, and administrative loopholes. One illegal vote is one too many. My goal is simple: every legal vote counted, every illegal vote stopped, and every voter confident the system is fair.

Pennsylvania Lieutenant Governor

Term: 4 years Salary: $213,248

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.

Vote for ONE.

DEMOCRAT

Austin Davis

Biographical Info

County: Allegheny

Occupation: Lieutenant Governor of Pennsylvania

Education: Bachelor’s Degree in Political Science from the University of Pittsburgh

Qualifications: From serving as a State Representative to now as the current Lieutenant Governor, Austin Davis is delivering real results for all Pennsylvanians and will continue working to move our Commonwealth forward.

Campaign Website: davisforpa.com

Facebook URL: facebook.com/AustinDavisPA/

X Handle: AustinDavisPA

Instagram URL: www.instagram.com/austindavispa/

Q: What are the most pressing issues facing Pennsylvania residents, and how would you address them?

We’re focused every day on building a good education for our kids, safer communities, economic opportunity, and protecting Pennsylvanians’ rights and freedoms. I’m proud of the work the Governor and I have done to deliver real results for all Pennsylvanians on these critical issues – creating thousands of good-paying jobs, attracting over $40 billion in private-sector investment, cutting taxes seven times, investing our schools, and supporting both community-based violence intervention programs and state and local law enforcement. I’m committed to fighting for all Pennsylvanians – and we are going to keep working to create real opportunity for our families to get ahead and be able to live the American dream right here in our Commonwealth.

Q: What are your specific ideas on the funding for public schools, private schools, and cyber charter schools to comply with the Commonwealth Court’s order?

Since taking office, we have increased K-12 funding by nearly 30 percent and implemented an adequacy formula to drive investments to schools in the most need. Governor Shapiro and I are making sure Pennsylvania students are set up to succeed everyday with safe, healthy learning environments — providing universal free school breakfast, hiring mental health counselors, and investing in school safety. We are building upon our cyber charter school reforms to ensure students have regular, engaged contact with teachers online — saving schools districts millions in the process. I know that when we invest in education, we invest in the future of our children, which is why we will keep building on these investments to support our students.

Q: What do you see as the state’s role regarding federal immigration policy?

Keeping our communities safe is our number one priority – but the federal government and their recklessness across the country has manufactured fear and chaos, making that work harder. Here in Pennsylvania, Governor Shapiro and I have worked to invest in law enforcement and violence prevention programs to build trust and build safer communities – and while we have been clear that we need a secure border and comprehensive immigration reform, we do not need the Trump Administration’s chaos in our Commonwealth. We will continue to stand up to it while we work to keep Pennsylvanians safe and move our Commonwealth forward.

Q: What would you do to ensure Pennsylvania elections are accessible and secure?

Pennsylvania’s elections are free, fair, safe, and secure – and together with Governor Shapiro, we have defended the integrity of our elections and Pennsylvanians’ right to vote so that all eligible voters can exercise that fundamental right. Since taking office, we have taken steps to strengthen voting rights and decrease voter errors here in the Commonwealth by implementing automatic voter registration, re-designing mail-in ballots, and working closely with local elections officials to support their work. While the federal government attacks the sanctity of our elections, Governor Shapiro and I will continue to stand up and protect our democracy and Pennsylvanians’ freedom to make their voices heard and ensure their votes are counted.

REPUBLICAN

John Ventre

Biographical Info

County: Westmoreland

Occupation: Retired Executive

Education: AA in Criminal Justice

Qualifications: I have 26 years of executive experience as a multistate security, public affairs, crisis mgmt., and claims director in 6 states. I have a 27-point plan to improve PA. My resume matches perfectly with the Lt Governor responsibilities: executive experience, crises mgmt and security director. Campaign Website: vote4ventre.com

Facebook URL: facebook.com/vote4ventre/

Q: What are the most pressing issues facing Pennsylvania residents, and how would you address them?

Affordability: our Governor is spending 7% more than we take in and increased 40% over the past 5 years. Our businesses are bogged down in regulations. We need a DOSE department of state efficiency. We need to freeze hiring except for law enforcement and nurses. I also believe through efficiency, we can eliminate the fuel tax (2% of budget), freeze property taxes for seniors and eliminate property taxes for disabled vets.

Q: What are your specific ideas on the funding for public schools, private schools, and cyber charter schools to comply with the Commonwealth Court’s order?

The Judicial shouldn’t be telling the State how to form policy. Overspending on education makes up 38% of the budget but results are ranked at # 39. We spend $25K per student which ranks # 5 highest. We need to outsource like a business and have true ESA Arizona style school choice. We need to encourage as many students as possible to not go to public schools. Cyber funding should’ve been increases, not decreased by $175M. Public school funding is a teachers union monopoly and needs to end.

Q: What do you see as the state’s role regarding federal immigration policy?

I will support ICE and federal law. We have a legal system of immigration; all others overstaying their vacation, need to leave. There will be zero sanctuary counties or cities. We need to identify what careers are lacking candidates and import those individuals. Open borders was a deliberate attempt to destroy the fabric of America.

Q: What would you do to ensure Pennsylvania elections are accessible and secure?

Act 77 must be replaced by the SAVE Act. Elections must be secure. Europe tried mail in ballots and 64% of countries went back to voter ID. Satellite centers will be reduced to 30 days and open to observation or eliminated. Non-citizens will be issued green drivers licenses so there is no doubt regarding citizenship.

REPUBLICAN

Jason Richey

Biographical Info

County: Allegheny

Occupation: Attorney

Education: Allegheny College, BA (Economics/Political Science Double Major); The Ohio State University Moritz College of Law, JD.

Qualifications: Growing up in Aliquippa, I saw the impact of economic decline & learned the value of hard work. I became a 3-time NCAA Academic All-American at Allegheny College. I worked in a steel mill through law school. Over a 30-year legal career, I’ve led high-stakes cases & teams across major industries.

Campaign Website: richeyforpa.com/ Facebook URL: facebook.com/JasonRicheyforPa/ Instagram URL: instagram.com/RicheyforPA

Q: What are the most pressing issues facing Pennsylvania residents, and how would you address them?

The most pressing issue facing Pennsylvanians is affordability. Families are struggling with rising energy costs, high taxes, and housing costs. Pennsylvania sits atop the Marcellus Shale, one of the largest natural gas reserves in the world, yet it has not been fully leveraged to benefit our citizens. I will expand responsible natural gas development, streamline permitting related to drilling and infrastructure, and position Pennsylvania as a world leading energy producer. This growth will lower energy costs and generate new revenue to reduce taxes, especially property taxes to lower housing costs. By connecting energy policy to tax relief, we can create jobs and make Pennsylvania more affordable.

Q: What are your specific ideas on the funding for public schools, private schools, and cyber charter schools to comply with the Commonwealth Court’s order?

A child’s future should not be determined by their address. The Commonwealth Court’s order is an opportunity to create a fair, student-centered funding system. I support increasing public school funding through a weighted formula that prioritizes low-income students, English learners, and special education needs. I also support expanding school choice through charter and cyber options, and by pursuing federal school choice opportunities alongside a Pennsylvania Scholarship Program that empowers parents with direct access to funding. Dollars should follow students, with clear accountability for results. No system should receive automatic funding without performance. Parents, not bureaucracies, should drive educational decisions.

Q: What do you see as the state’s role regarding federal immigration policy?

The federal government sets immigration policy, but the state has a clear responsibility to protect public safety and enforce the law. Pennsylvania should not be a sanctuary for those who commit crimes or undermine public safety. State and local law enforcement should fully cooperate with federal authorities in identifying, detaining, and removing individuals who are in the country illegally and have committed violent crimes or other serious offenses. At the same time, we should ensure resources are focused on securing communities, supporting victims, and maintaining order. A safe immigration system requires clear rules, consistent enforcement, and no tolerance for criminal activity that puts Pennsylvania families at risk.

Q: What would you do to ensure Pennsylvania elections are accessible and secure?

Pennsylvanians deserve elections they can trust completely. I will help ensure both accessibility and security by supporting voter ID requirements, regular maintenance of voter rolls, and strict chain-of-custody standards for ballots. We should also establish uniform election administration rules across all 67 counties so every voter is treated equally. Every eligible voter must have a clear, accessible path to cast a ballot, including early voting, while every safeguard must ensure only legal votes are counted and results are accurate and timely. The standard is simple: it should be easy to vote and hard to cheat.

US Representative in Congress, 14th Congressional District

Term: 2 years Salary: $174,000

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.

Vote for ONE.

Alan Bradstock

Biographical Info

County: Fayette

Occupation: Retired FBI Special Agent

Education: Washington & Jefferson College, B.A. in Accounting. Troy State University Overseas Program, M.S. in International Relations. U.S. Army advanced officer leadership training. FBI Special Agent Academy graduate.

Qualifications: I’m a U.S. Army helicopter pilot and Desert Storm veteran, former FBI Special Agent, and experienced leader in national security and government operations. I’ve managed complex programs, budgets, and teams, and I’m committed to serving with integrity, accountability, and results for the people.

Campaign Website: bradstockforcongress.com

Facebook URL: facebook.com/bradstockforcongress

X Handle: BradstockPA14

Instagram URL: www.instagram.com/bradstock4congress

Q: What are the most pressing issues facing your district and our country, and how would you address them? In PA-14, the most pressing issues are economic security, healthcare access, and restoring trust in government. Families are facing rising costs, limited job opportunities, and gaps in rural healthcare. I would focus on growing good-paying jobs through infrastructure, energy innovation, and support for small businesses; lowering costs by addressing prescription drug prices and healthcare access; and strengthening workforce training. Nationally, we must also protect Social Security and Medicare, defend democratic institutions, and ensure government works efficiently, with accountability and results for the people.

Q: What do you see as the role of Congress in oversight of the executive branch? Congress must provide independent, rigorous oversight to ensure the executive follows the law and serves the public interest. That means holding hearings, issuing subpoenas when necessary, reviewing spending, and demanding transparency from agencies. Congress must also protect inspectors general and whistleblowers, enforce ethics standards, and ensure no one is above the law. Oversight isn’t partisan—it’s a constitutional duty that protects accountability, prevents abuse of power, and maintains trust in government.

Q: What role should Congress play regarding foreign policy and international relations? Congress needs to reassert its constitutional authority over war and foreign policy, not rubber-stamp executive action. That starts with debating and voting on the use of military force. We should strengthen alliances, invest in diplomacy, and make sure foreign aid serves both American interests and humanitarian goals with accountability. I also believe economic and technological competitiveness is a national security issue. Our foreign policy should be steady and values-driven, not reactive, and it should always prioritize the safety of Americans and our troops.

Q: What legislative changes, if any, are needed to make healthcare more accessible and affordable? Congress should act to extend marketplace premium tax credits through the Health Care Affordability Act to prevent sharp cost increases for families across our district. We must also protect Medicaid coverage and provide targeted support for rural hospitals to ensure continued access to care. Passing the CONNECT for Health Act would permanently expand telehealth, including audio-only access for rural patients. In addition, advancing the Chronic Disease Flexible Coverage Act would lower out-of-pocket costs for preventive and chronic care, improving outcomes and reducing long-term costs.

Guy Reschenthaler

Biographical Info

County: Washington Campaign Website: guyforpa.com Facebook URL: facebook.com/GuyReschenthalerPA

Did not respond.

Pennsylvania State Senator in the General Assembly, Senate District 46

Term: 4 years Salary: $113,591

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 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.

Vote for ONE.

Evan Snyder

Biographical Info County: Washington

Did not respond. DEMOCRAT

REPUBLICAN

Al Buchtan

Biographical Info

County: Washington Campaign Website: buchtan4pa.com Facebook URL: facebook.com/p/Buchtan-for-Senate-61577891652754/

Did not respond.

REPUBLICAN

Camera Bartolotta

Biographical Info County: Washington Facebook URL: facebook.com/camerab

Did not respond

Pennsylvania State Representative in the General Assembly

Term: 2 years Salary: $113,591

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.

Vote for ONE.

House District 15

Sydney Speicher

Biographical Info

County: Washington

Occupation: Graduate Student

Education: Bachelor of Arts, political science pre-law, cum laude, Pennsylvania Western University of California, May 2025

Qualifications: Bachelor’s degree, current Master of Laws student at University of Pittsburgh. Completed fellowships with RISE and Project 26 Pennsylvania mobilizing young voters and also phone banking/canvassing. Campaign Website: speicherforpa.com Facebook URL: facebook.com/profile.php?id=61588347418352

Instagram URL: www.instagram.com/speicherforpa/

Q: What do you see as the most pressing issues facing residents of your district, and how would you address them?

The most pressing issues facing House District 15 are affordability, healthcare access, education, and infrastructure. Families are struggling with rising costs for housing, groceries, and utilities, so I support targeted tax relief, affordable housing, and job training for stable, well-paying work. Healthcare, especially mental health services, must be more accessible and affordable by expanding community providers and lowering costs. Our schools need fair funding and stronger career and technical programs. I also support investing in roads, bridges, and first responders. I will focus on practical solutions that directly improve everyday life in our community.

Q: What changes, if any, would you support to enable better access, ensure security, and support the processes of our elections?

I support making voting fully accessible, secure, and trustworthy for every eligible citizen. This includes expanding early voting, no-excuse absentee ballots, and same-day or online registration, while ensuring voter ID alternatives for those who need them. I will work to modernize outdated voting equipment, implement paper backups, post-election audits, and strengthen cybersecurity to protect results. My goal is to ensure every vote counts, every voter can participate safely, and our elections remain fair, transparent, and trusted by all Americans, reflecting the will of the people.

Q: What are your thoughts on the state budget process? What changes, if any, would you support so that the budget is enacted in a timely manner?

I believe the state budget process should be transparent, responsible, and timely so that critical services like education, healthcare, and public safety are fully funded without delay. Too often Pennsylvania faces last-minute negotiations that create uncertainty for families, schools, and local governments. I support reforms that strengthen transparency through clear public reporting and hearings and encourage timely bipartisan cooperation, so the budget is passed on schedule. By prioritizing planning, collaboration, and accountability, we can ensure Pennsylvania’s resources are used efficiently and support our communities.

Data centers must be strictly regulated because of their harmful effects on air, land, and water resources. The state legislature should enact laws requiring that any development or operation protects the environment, conserves energy, and safeguards public health. These statewide regulations should provide clear environmental standards while still allowing municipalities to exercise their authority under the Municipal Planning Code to adopt local ordinances. Strong state oversight combined with local input is necessary to ensure that development does not come at the expense of communities, natural resources, or public health, and that those responsible are held accountable for their impacts.

Joshua D. Kail

Biographical Info

County: Beaver Campaign Website: joshkail.com

Did not respond.

House District 39

DEMOCRAT

Dylan Altemara

Biographical Info

County: Allegheny

Occupation: Educational Staffing Professional Education: BA, California University of PA - Sociology, MS, Southern New Hampshire University - Human Resources, EdD, Point Park University - Educational Leadership and Administration

Qualifications: 4-Generation resident of SWPA, Educational Professional, and Union Leader Campaign Website: dylan4pa.com/

Facebook URL: facebook.com/dylan4pa Instagram URL: www.instagram.com/dylan4pa/

Q: What do you see as the most pressing issues facing residents of your district, and how would you address them?

The biggest issue facing our district is simple: working people are being squeezed while Harrisburg isn’t delivering. Families here are dealing with rising property taxes, higher utility bills, and wages that aren’t keeping up. Meanwhile, utility monopolies keep raising rates and politicians look the other way. I’ll fight to lower costs, raise wages, and hold corporate interests accountable—because government should work for people, not the powerful.

Q: What changes, if any, would you support to enable better access, ensure security, and support the processes of our elections?

I support expanding early voting, no-excuse mail-in voting, and secure ballot drop boxes to improve access. At the same time, we must invest in election security, modern equipment, and well-trained poll workers. I oppose voter suppression and support clear, consistent rules so every eligible voter can safely and confidently participate in our elections.

Q: What are your thoughts on the state budget process? What changes, if any, would you support so that the budget is enacted in a timely manner? Pennsylvania’s budget process is too often delayed by political gridlock, creating uncertainty for schools, local governments, and working families. Let’s keep budgets on time, transparent, and focused on real needs—not backroom deals. I support earlier, more open negotiations, firm deadlines with accountability measures, and greater public input. We should also require clearer reporting so residents understand where their tax dollars go. Ultimately, the process should prioritize stability, fiscal responsibility, and timely investments in education, infrastructure, and public services.

Q: Should the state legislature enact laws concerning the impacts on water, energy, or land use from the development and operation of data centers? Would state regulation of data center development and operation interfere with the authority of municipalities to establish ordinances under the MPC (Municipal Planning Code)? Yes—data centers have real impacts on water use, energy demand, and land use, so the state should set clear, baseline standards for efficiency, environmental protection, and grid reliability. That includes responsible water use, clean energy requirements, and transparency. At the same time, state law should respect and preserve local control under the MPC. Municipalities must retain the authority to zone, set conditions, and address community impacts. The right approach is a floor—not a ceiling—so statewide standards protect residents while local governments can go further based on community needs.

REPUBLICAN

Andrew Kuzma

Biographical Info

County: Allegheny

Facebook URL: facebook.com/vote4kuzma/

Did not respond.

DEMOCRAT

Kellianne Frketic

Biographical Info

County: Allegheny

Occupation: Supply Chain - Inventory Control Coordinator/ Greater Pittsburgh Community Food bank Education: Duquesne University - BSBA focuses in Marketing and Entrepreneurship. Ohio University - MBA Operations & Supply Chain Management

Qualifications: I have years of experience advocating for working families, public health, and environmental protections in the Mon Valley. I’ve organized community members, worked alongside nonprofits and advocacy groups, and engaged with elected officials at the municipal, county, state and federal levels.

Campaign Website: ka4pa.com Facebook URL: facebook.com/KA4PA39/ Instagram URL: instagram.com/ka4pa39/

Q: What do you see as the most pressing issues facing residents of your district, and how would you address them?

Residents are facing rising costs, economic instability, environmental health concerns, & aging infrastructure. Many families struggle with the cost of housing, childcare, healthcare & groceries while wages have not kept pace. I would support policies that raise wages, strengthen labor protections, & invest in local economic development that brings good-paying jobs to our region. The Mon Valley also faces long-standing environmental & public health challenges. I will continue advocating for stronger environmental oversight & investments in clean air, clean water, & environmental remediation. Finally, we must invest in public education, infrastructure, & reliable transit so our communities can thrive & residents have real opportunities to suceed.

Q: What changes, if any, would you support to enable better access, ensure security, and support the processes of our elections?

I support practical reforms that both expand access to voting and strengthen public confidence in our elections. Pennsylvania should implement in-person early voting and give counties more time to pre-canvass mail ballots so election workers can process ballots efficiently and report results more quickly. We should also simplify mail ballot rules so voters don’t lose their vote over minor technical errors. At the same time, we must continue investing in secure election infrastructure, training for poll workers, and resources for counties so elections remain transparent, accessible and trustworthy for every voter.

Q: What are your thoughts on the state budget process? What changes, if any, would you support so that the budget is enacted in a timely manner?

The state budget process should be more transparent, collaborative and timely. Too often, negotiations happen behind closed doors and drag past the deadline, creating uncertainty for schools, municipalities and service providers that rely on state funding. I support earlier negotiations, greater public transparency in the process and stronger accountability to ensure deadlines are met. Budget priorities should reflect the real needs of Pennsylvanians — including education, infrastructure, public transit and human services — and lawmakers should work in good faith to reach agreements that keep government functioning responsibly.

Yes. As data centers expand, Pennsylvania should establish baseline standards to address impacts on water use, energy demand and land development. These facilities can place significant strain on local infrastructure and natural resources, so responsible planning and transparency are important. At the same time, state policy should not override local authority. Municipalities understand their communities best and must retain the ability under the Municipal Planning Code to enact zoning and land-use ordinances that reflect local needs. State standards should provide safeguards while preserving local control and community input in development decisions.

House District 40

DEMOCRAT

Jon Lloyd

Biographical Info

County: Allegheny

Occupation: IT

Infrastructure Manager

Campaign Website: jlforpa.com

Facebook URL: facebook.com/jlforpa/

Instagram URL: instagram.com/jlforpa/

Q: What do you see as the most pressing issues facing residents of your district, and how would you address them?

In the 40th District, our residents are facing issues similar to those in our surrounding communities. Rising costs, aging infrastructure, and growing concern about public health and the environment are posing real challenges to everyday life and concerns for the future. Additionally, many residents feel that government is unresponsive to their needs. I would focus on initiatives that would support working families, more affordable housing and healthcare, and improving critical infrastructure. I would also lead with transparency and a commitment to listening to the people I serve.

Q: What changes, if any, would you support to enable better access, ensure security, and support the processes of our elections?

I will always support changes that make voting more accessible, secure, and transparent. I would support easier access to mail-in ballots, expanding early voting, and allocating more resources for counties and municipalities to better administer elections. I believe that every eligible voter should be able to vote easily and have confidence that their ballot will be counted accurately.

Q: What are your thoughts on the state budget process? What changes, if any, would you support so that the budget is enacted in a timely manner?

I believe that the state budget process should be transparent, collaborative, and accountable. Government making decisions behind closed doors and going well past deadlines is unacceptable. The delay of the prior year’s budget had an adverse effect on schools, local governments, and families. I would support earlier budget talks, greater public input, and greater transparency through better disclosure of budget negotiations. I truly believe government works best when it is collaborative and responsible to the people, especially when it comes to our budget.

I believe the state should implement legislation that addresses the environmental and economic impacts of data centers. I would vote for and co-sponsor legislation that would require these centers to develop energy, water, and other environmental plans such that our residents are not absorbing the cost of the increased energy grid and water usage. I also believe that the MPC should be preserved to adopt local zoning and land use ordinances that reflect the needs of the community.

REPUBLICAN

Natalie Mihalek

Biographical Info

County: Washington

Occupation: State Representative 40th Legislative District

Education: Bachelor of Arts: University of Pittsburgh (2004); Juris Doctorate: Appalachian School of Law (2007); Diploma: South Allegheny High School (1997); Graduate of Naval Nuclear Power School (1998)

Qualifications: With my roots firmly planted in southwestern Pennsylvania, I have leaned on my experience of growing up in Allegheny County and really understanding the ways in which the region has changed to influence how I represent the nearly 65,000 residents of the 40th legislative district. Campaign Website: nataliemihalek.com Facebook URL: facebook.com/RepMihalek/

Q: What do you see as the most pressing issues facing residents of your district, and how would you address them?

Affordability is an issue for the 40th district just like it is every where else. That is why I am a co-sponsor of legislation to reduce the personal income tax. I have also sponsored bills that would enact a tax holiday on the gas tax as well as other expenses for families including newborn gear and youth sports equipment. I have voted in favor of a minimum wage increase because I believe Pennsylvania’s was far too low. I am also a prime sponsor of the Family Care Act which would guarantee all workers paid family and medical leave. We know that most Pennsylvanians are living pay check to pay check and no one should have to decide between caring for a loved one and their income.

Q: What changes, if any, would you support to enable better access, ensure security, and support the processes of our elections?

I would vote in favor of pre-canvassing. I think the faster we can produce election results, the less concerns about the integrity of the system. A long drawn out counting process is not ideal for the government or the voters.

Q: What are your thoughts on the state budget process? What changes, if any, would you support so that the budget is enacted in a timely manner?

The state budget process is my number one frustration as a member of the legislature. I am working on a bill right now that is modeled after a Canadian law which triggers an election if the budget is not passed on time. Right now there are zero consequences to the people at the negotiating table. School districts and non-profits getting their funding late is apparently not reason enough to negotiate in good faith and in a timely manner. Maybe if the jobs of the very people at the table were on the line that would be a motivating reason to fulfill our constitutional duty of passing a budget by June 30.

Yes, Pennsylvania needs to act swiftly and smartly regarding the rapid expansion of data centers across the country. We know this will take a huge amount of energy and water to run. I think we can do this in a way that is not harmful to the environment, while also increasing access to a new revenue stream and new jobs for the Commonwealth. The idea shouldn’t be to usurp power from local municipalities but to wrap some uniform parameters around this growing field for the entire Commonwealth.

House District 46 Mike Crossey

DEMOCRAT

Biographical Info County: Allegheny Occupation: Business Broker/Retired Education: BS.Ed; MA. ;MS.ED Qualifications: Retired Teacher/Past President PSEA/Former Elected Official/ President Pennsylvania Alliance for Retired Americans Campaign Website: crosseyforpa. com/

Q: What do you see as the most pressing issues facing residents of your district, and how would you address them?

I believe the biggest problem affecting Pennsylvanians and the residents of my district is the growing affordability crisis. We are facing this crisis because of a structural deficit. We have been funding services with one time fixes, drawing down the rainy day fund, and back filling with federal supplement dollars. Families are struggling to keep up. It is difficult to meet even basic needs for many. Families are strained. Costs are rising in every area of the family budget, All this, while salaries have remained stagnant and public supports have diminished or disappeared. I will present 3 specific plans to increase state revenue to reduce costs, increase public support, create family sustaining jobs, and improve our infrastucture.

Q: What changes, if any, would you support to enable better access, ensure security, and support the processes of our elections?

I believe our elections are secure, but they are under constant attack by those who want to undermine the system. Over the last several years I have been involved in several lawsuits protecting and enhancing voter rights. I am currently suing the Federal Department of Justice to stop their overreach-demanding access to our voters personal data. Two bills I will introduce to make our elections more secure would be no firearms within 300 feet of a polling place and no ICE agents on or near the approach to a polling location.

Q: What are your thoughts on the state budget process? What changes, if any, would you support so that the budget is enacted in a timely manner?

The state budget process is always a battle over priorities and approaches to solving Pennsylvania’s problems and how to move forward. President Trump’s cutbacks and curtailments have given us fewer dollars to work with, making the problem worse for every Pennsylvanian. The budget has also become a political battle. My solution to this is to make an on time budget a priority. I will introduce legislation that says: No budget-No pay. This would not apply to staff. It will be directed at the governor and all elected members of the legislature.

Q: Should the state legislature enact laws concerning the impacts on water, energy, or land use from the development and operation of data centers? Would state regulation of data center development and operation interfere with the authority of municipalities to establish ordinances under the MPC (Municipal Planning Code)? State regulations must be written to coexist with local autonomy in a way that balances economic development, environmental protection, and local control. Water withdrawal permits must be tied to capacity. Efficiency standards must water reuse and recycling. Contingencies must be in place in case of a drought. Water needs must be given priority: household and residential, Agricultural, industry , then Data centers. It must be built in from day 1 that costs of power generation must not be shifted to local rate payers. I would also require that developers pay for all transmission upgrades, grid stabilization costs, and no costs get shifted to or shared with local residential or business ratepayers.

REPUBLICAN

Jason Ortitay

Biographical Info

County: Washington

Campaign Website: citizensforjasonortitay.com

Facebook URL: facebook.com/citizensforjasonortitay

Did not respond.

House District 48

DEMOCRAT

Rebecca MacTaggart

Biographical Info

County: Washington

Occupation: Community Engagement Specialist

Education: B.A. Point Park University; Certified ADA Coordinator, PA Department of Human Services Certified Person Center

Counselor and Certified Investigator

Qualifications: Rebecca MacTaggart brings years of experience in community engagement, disability advocacy, and public policy work. She has helped individuals and families navigate housing, transportation, services, and state systems, while also working with agencies, policymakers, and community partners to move pr

Campaign Website: rebeccamactaggart.com

Facebook URL: facebook.com/rm4pa

Instagram URL: instagram.com/rm4pa/

Q: What do you see as the most pressing issues facing residents of your district, and how would you address them?

The biggest issues facing residents of District 48 are rising costs, access to healthcare and services, employment, and trust in government. Families want strong schools, reliable infrastructure, and economic growth that benefits the community—not backroom deals or decisions made without public input. I would fight for transparent, accountable government that keeps residents informed, invites real community participation, and puts people ahead of special interests. I would also work to protect healthcare access, strengthen public education, build the workforce, and support responsible growth that respects the character, needs, and future of our communities.

Q: What changes, if any, would you support to enable better access, ensure security, and support the processes of our elections?

Rebecca MacTaggart supports changes that improve access and help election officials do their jobs well. That includes protecting in-person and mail voting, improving accessibility for seniors and people with disabilities including transportation to and from our polling places, supporting transparent ballot processing and reporting, and ensuring counties have the staff and resources they need.

Q: What are your thoughts on the state budget process? What changes, if any, would you support so that the budget is enacted in a timely manner?

Pennsylvania’s budget process needs more transparency, accountability, and urgency. When budgets are delayed, schools, counties, nonprofits, service providers, and workers are left in limbo while backroom negotiations continue. I support earlier public negotiations, regular public updates, and stronger deadlines to reduce late budgets. I also believe that if the legislature fails to pass a budget on time and that failure causes funding disruptions or lost wages for others, legislators should not keep getting paid. Public service should come with accountability.

Pennsylvania is not ready for data center development without far more transparency, stronger safeguards, and real community input. I support economic growth, but not backroom deals and not projects that shift water, energy, or land-use burdens onto local residents.

REPUBLICAN

Tim O’Neal

Biographical Info

County: Washington

Campaign Website: onealforpa.com

Facebook URL: facebook.com/TimONealforStateRepresentative

Did not respond

House District 50

DEMOCRAT

Lois Bower-Bjornson

Biographical Info

County: Washington

Occupation: I am the Southwestern Pennsylvania field organizer with Clean Air council and the host of frackland tours. I also own and operate Micro buisnes owner

Education: I have a duel degree in dance and communications from West Virginia University along with a 2 year academic/artistic scholarship

Qualifications: I live and grew up in the 50th district. I know the communities, the people and the area.

Campaign Website: Loisforpa50.com

Facebook URL: facebook.com/profile.php?id=100010020398362https:// www.facebook.com/share/17Y1C8xMSb/?mibextid=wwXIfr Instagram URL: www.instagram.com/lois_bowerbjornson/

Q: What do you see as the most pressing issues facing residents of your district, and how would you address them?

Transportation, housing, jobs. There is no public transportation. It is my goal to combine already existing bus lines. I would like to see public rail transit reinstated. There were trains and street cars that use to go into Pittsburgh. We have affordable housing in the 50th. If you have reliable public transit then folks can work and live in the 50th district. In order to have folks move to the area you must have public transportation. The energy sector has supplied some jobs to the 50th. However the boom and bust mentality is not working. Jobs in the renewable energy market are the next wave of energy. These jobs are family and community sustaining. Public transportation, affordable housing along with clean jobs will rebuild the 50th.

Q: What changes, if any, would you support to enable better access, ensure security, and support the processes of our elections?

I recommend that everyone should be a poll worker. Then they can see the security of the election process.

Q: What are your thoughts on the state budget process? What changes, if any, would you support so that the budget is enacted in a timely manner?

Since this is always an issue, I believe that we should continue operating under the previous budget until the current budget is passed. This is done on other states and it works. There should be no shut down. Also legislators should not be paid until the budget passes.

Absolutely! This should have happened with the oil and gas industry. Municipalities should establish their own ordinance, however most if not all municipalities do not have ordinance for data centers, similar to what happened when oil and gas came to town, with out an ordinance those communities are targeted and always behind the eight ball. Therefore state regulation could be helpful.

REPUBLICAN

Biographical Info

County: Greene

Campaign Website: humbleforhouse.com/

Facebook URL: facebook.com/profile.php?id=61578742793977

Did not respond.

REPUBLICAN

Bud Cook

Biographical Info

County: Washington Occupation: PA State Representative Education: California Area High School , West Virginia Wesleyan BS Qualifications: I bring real-world business experience and a proven record of creating jobs and managing resources responsibly. I have delivered results in Harrisburg by fighting for economic growth, energy independence, and the needs of our district . Campaign Website: team-cook.com Facebook URL: facebook.com/Bud.Cook.PA/

Q: What do you see as the most pressing issues facing residents of your district, and how would you address them?

I believe the most pressing issues facing our district are rising costs for families, the need for good-paying jobs, and protecting our way of life in rural communities. Too many hardworking people are feeling the strain of inflation, burdensome regulations, and ridiculous energy policies that drive up costs instead of lowering them. I will continue fighting to grow our local economy, support domestic energy production, cut unnecessary government spending, and stand up for the values and freedoms that matter most to the people I represent. I have also built the necessary relationships and have garnered the seniority in Harrisburg to combat the red tape holding us back as well as co-sponsoring legislation on permitting reform.

Q: What changes, if any, would you support to enable better access, ensure security, and support the processes of our elections?

I support commonsense reforms that both protect the integrity of our elections and make it easy for every eligible voter to participate. That includes strengthening voter ID requirements, improving the accuracy of our voter rolls, and ensuring transparency and accountability throughout the process so voters can have full confidence in the results. I am also, along with many of my colleagues, working to repeal Act 77 to restore trust, accountability, and consistency in how our elections are conducted.

Q: What are your thoughts on the state budget process? What changes, if any, would you support so that the budget is enacted in a timely manner?

The state budget process in Pennsylvania is too often driven by last-minute negotiations and backroom deals, which leaves taxpayers and lawmakers without the transparency and accountability they deserve. We also have a real problem with too many elected officials who have never run a business, met a payroll, or had to make tough budgeting decisions in the real world. We need a more disciplined and open process that prioritizes fiscal responsibility, avoids overspending, and respects the hard-earned money of Pennsylvania families. I support enforcing firm budget deadlines, increasing transparency throughout negotiations, and advancing commonsense reforms that ensure a timely, responsible budget that puts taxpayers not politics first.

We need a balanced, commonsense approach when it comes to data center development that protects our natural resources without stifling economic growth. Large-scale projects can have real impacts on water usage, energy demand, and land use, so the state has a role in setting clear, consistent standards to ensure responsible development. At the same time, I strongly support the authority of local municipalities under the Municipal Planning Code, and any state action should complement not override local control, ensuring communities still have a meaningful voice in how these projects are developed.

Note: On the Democratic and Republican primary ballots, voters will also choose members of the State and County Party Committees. The League of Women Voters does not list these positions in this guide or on VOTE411. Please contact your local Democratic or Republican Party committee for information on these candidates.

The Washington County Elections Office has consolidated precincts in the following municipalities. Please check the list for your new polling location. If you are uncertain of your new location please call theWashington County Elections Office 724-228-6750 for more information.

The League of Women Voters of Washington County is grateful to the Observer-Reporter for printing and distributing this guide.

Ben Humble