Pennsylvania State Senator District 23
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. Term: 4 years Salary: $106,422 Vote for ONE.
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Kim Pitcher
(Dem)
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Gene Yaw
(Rep)
What do you see as the most pressing issues facing Pennsylvanians, and how would you address them?
What changes would you support making to Pennsylvania’s voting laws to expand access, ensure security, and support local election officials and processes?
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?
What changes, if any, would you support making to Pennsylvania’s abortion laws?
County
Bradford
Occupation
Photographer / Former Editor, Reporter
Education
Northeast Bradford Grade School/High School Penn College/ Graphic Design
Qualifications
Kim Pitcher is a lifelong Bradford County resident. She has been a Democratic Committee member for nearly 10 years. Previously, she ran for County Commissioner where her main goals for seeking office were to provide public and fiscal integrity
It's not everyday I quote James Carville but, “It’s the economy stupid”. First and foremost I would attempt to rollback this gas tax even more. It’s one of the highest in the country. Only to be outdone by Callifornia and Illinois. Even if it’s just another 5 cents, it’s money that adds up and back in your pocket! Second, and probably most important, how about we raise the minimum wage finally. Our minimum wage has remained unchanged at $7.25 for 15 years. It’s time for fair pay and pay equity. Also, I believe there needs to be another cost of living increase for recipients of Social Security benefits. As the cost of living has increased, Social Security benefits have not kept up with the cost of food, medications, and other necessities.
Our Elections are very secure. I have volunteered many years as a poll worker with the Bradford County Board of Elections. I've witnessed firsthand how diligent and dedicated all our election officials are to the process. I would work to expand access by providing voting materials in languages that reflect our state's population. Adding the additional languages of Pennsylvania German, French, Italian, Vietnamese, Korean and others. Also, expanding early voting, and shortening absentee ballot request time
That's a tough one. A good start would be to update our population data. Pennsylvania's most recent budget allocates it’s K-12 funding to a percentage of schools whose data is 30 years old! Modernizing that data alone with information that reflects enrollment numbers, students with Individualized Education Plans, and English Language Learners can help us better understand the needs of the district. I do think it's a great opportunity to revamp the funding of our public school system. I would support any legislation that ensures students can access the type of education that does beyond the minimum standard. I’m firm in my belief we can come to an agreement to create an equitable distribution of state funding.
My job will not be done until there is an amendment to our state constitution protecting a woman's right to choose. Full stop.
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