Jim Massey- Democrat
Scope: What are your top three priorities if elected?
JM: My first priority is improving education by finding a better way to fairly fund schools and by improving teacher pay in order to retain the current hard-working teachers we have and to attract new teachers. I also aim to lessen the focus on standardized testing and to develop a system where schools show student growth and achievement in other, more reliable ways.
My second priority is to fix PA’s failing infrastructure by investing in improvements across the Commonwealth. This could easily be funded in many ways, including by legalizing, regulating, and taxing recreational marijuana.
My third priority is to protect the rights of all marginalized people, including women, people of color, and our LGBTQ+ friends and family members. The far right is already beginning the attacks on these groups, and I hope to pass permanent legislation at the state level to protect them all and to improve their lives.
Scope: Pennsylvania is a major swing state; if elected how do you plan to unify the state population?
JM: I plan to unify the state by reaching across the aisle to help find common ground regarding things that need improved for the benefits of ALL Pennsylvanians, such as infrastructure, education, rural communities, etc.
Scope: What are your plans for alleviating higher education costs?
JM: By continuing to fully fund state and community colleges, all students should have the opportunity to afford higher education. I will also encourage private colleges to find ways to lower costs and to provide more scholarships.
Scope: Where do you stand on Roe v. Wade and Obergefell v. Hodges and how do you plan to act on your position?
JM: I believe that government does not belong in the doctor’s office, and I will fight for women and non-binary individuals to make decisions about their own bodies. I also believe that ALL Americans deserve the opportunity to pursue happiness and to be their unique selves, so the right to marriage must be protected in our state!
Scope: Gun violence in schools is a worry for many school students across the state. If elected, how do you plan to combat this in office?
JM: I plan to help pass legislation to make background checks required in all instances and to try to lower or eliminate the number of assault weapons that can be purchased. I also will push for schools to have more funding to provide mental health services for students so that those who are struggling can receive help in order to hopefully avoid having them take drastic measures.
Scope: Why should high school students vote for you?
JM: Although I am in my 70s, I have been an individual who has always believed in helping others, especially those who may be different from me. I have a son who works in education, and I understand fully the progress that is being made in the younger generations regarding accepting others who are different, which I think is positive and important. My door will always be open to hear from my youngest constituents so that I can best serve everyone in our community!
To find out more about Jim Massey, candidate for PA State Senate District 34, visit his website at https://www.jimmasseysenate.com