Republican Tina Ayala, 48, of West Bradford Township is challenging incumbent Democrat and West Bradford resident Christina Sappey in District 158 of the state House.
The candidates were emailed identical questions and asked to reply with less than 425 words.
Tina Ayala, Republican
Name a single problem facing the district you are running to represent and how you would address that issue if elected.
One of the biggest issues facing District 158 is the rising cost of living. From utility bills to housing costs and inflation, families are struggling to make ends meet. As a state representative, I will work to reduce the tax burden on Pennsylvania families and promote policies that support economic growth, create jobs, and lower everyday costs. Reforming Act 12, which allows private companies to take over municipal water systems and raise rates, is just one part of this effort. I will also push for policies that lower energy costs and reduce unnecessary regulations on small businesses to keep prices down for consumers.
What specific actions should the state Legislature take to make life more affordable for the people living in your district?
The state legislature can make life more affordable by cutting property taxes, reducing income taxes, and eliminating overregulation that stifles business growth. We should focus on policies that allow small businesses to thrive and create jobs, and that return more of our hard-earned tax dollars to Pennsylvania families. Additionally, investing in infrastructure, particularly in affordable energy solutions like natural gas, will help lower utility costs and promote long-term economic stability
How will you gather feedback from the community regarding their needs and concerns?
I would work to hold town hall meetings and community forums across the district, making sure to hear from residents in each township. I would like to ensure as many people as possible have the opportunity to share their thoughts. Building strong relationships with local leaders and community organizations will be key to understanding and addressing the issues people face.
What inspired you to run for office?
I’m running for office because I believe in the power of community and the importance of standing up for our freedoms. Growing up in a low-income family, I faced many challenges, but I worked hard to create a better life for myself and my family. I want to give back and make sure our community has opportunities and resources.
Christina Sappey, Democrat
Submitted Photo
Rep. Christina Sappey (DLN File Photo)
Name a single problem facing the district you are running to represent and how you would address that issue if elected.
The current condition of our roads and bridges has a huge negative impact on all of us, regardless of political philosophy. As state representative, I communicate with residents, municipalities and PennDOT daily to coordinate response to roads and bridges in need of attention. I recently hosted the Secretary of Transportation for a drive through of the district and a town hall meeting. I was able to get action on several pressing areas through that visit. I have also formed a southeast Penndot task force with House colleagues to focus on transportation priorities that are unique to our region. It’s imperative for our economy, and our safety, that we act to repair, restore and rebuild a 21st century infrastructure.
What specific actions should the state Legislature take to make life more affordable for the people living in your district?
The cost of living in Chester County, the wealthiest county in the state, is very high, and it’s been rising as population grows here. Keeping property taxes in check by having the state take on a bigger share of education funding is a huge help, and we did that in the budget this year. My legislation to cap property taxes for long term homeowners passed the House unanimously this fall, if enacted this measure would also help keep people in their homes. We also expanded the Property Tax and Rent Rebate program to include more taxpayers. Our downtowns full of small businesses got a boost this year in the Main Street Matters program also, which will help grow local economies and jobs. Finally, we can keep municipal water and wastewater authorities public. Once these services go private, rates soar, so I’m working with colleagues to address this trend in PA.
How will you gather feedback from the community regarding their needs and concerns?
It’s important to be as accessible as possible, in a variety of ways for constituents. I hold numerous formal and informal legislative events throughout the year for constituents to attend in person or online, we have outreach tables at community events around the district, and I meet with residents and organizations regularly in my office to hear their thoughts and assist.
What inspired you to run for office?
The growing extremism and division in state politics, and the threat to our personal freedoms is primarily what prompted me to run. I’ve lived here a long time, raised my family here and I know this is not who we are or what we want.
