Election 2022: Meet Ben Sanchez, State Representative

MONTGOMERY COUNTY, PA — With the November general election just around the corner, Patch is profiling some of the candidates whose names will appear at the ballot box.

Below, we introduce you to State Rep. Ben Sanchez, a Democrat who represents the 153rd Legislative District, which covers Abington and Upper Dublin Townships as well as Rockledge Borough.

Patch sent a questionnaire to Sanchez and below are his Reponses.

Name

Ben Sanchez

Age

47

Town Of Residence

Jenkintown (Abington Township)

What Communities Does Your District Cover?

The new 153rd District will cover most of Abington Township, all of Rockledge Borough and about ½ of Upper Dublin Township

Party Affiliation (If Applicable)

Democratic

Family

Married to Karen Sanchez with three children ages 14, 11 and 4.

Education

Abington Senior High School 1993; Villanova University 1997; Temple Law School 2004

Occupation

State Representative/Attorney

How Long Have You Held Public Office? If You Are A Political Newcomer, What Made You Decide To Get Involved In Politics?

I was twice elected Abington Township Commissioner for Ward 7 and served in that role from 2014-2019. I have served as State Representative since 2019.

How Long Have You Lived In Pennsylvania? How Long Have You Lived In The District You Either Represent, Or Are Seeking To Represent?

I am a lifelong resident of the district, having been born and raised in Glenside.

What Are Some Of The Top Issues Facing Your District?

Top issues facing our district include ensuring accessible and affordable healthcare for all, especially access to reproductive healthcare, providing clean and safe drinking water, strengthening and supporting public education, demanding action for gun safety, and protecting our rights when it comes to equality and our precious environment.

What In Your Background Qualifies You For The Elected Position?

When I decided to run for office, it was because I had a particular set of skills that I believed could add significant value to our local government in my hometown. As a practicing lawyer and licensed certified public accountant, I will continue to use those legal and financial skills along with my sound judgment to address issues facing the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. I now have nearly four years of service in the legislature and a proven track record. I look forward to continuing to serve everyone with compassion, hard work and my faithful dedication to good government and our community.

Do You Believe Adhering To Party Doctrine Or Serving Constituents Is More Important?

I have always and will continue to prioritize the service of constituents, regardless of party.

Are You Willing To Work Across The Political Aisle To Get Things Accomplished?

Yes. Too often these days, people have forgotten how to listen to each other. While I will always strongly advocate for my constituents and our priorities, I will be certain to communicate among my fellow representatives in order to understand their perspectives and to try to build consensus in addressing the range of basic to the most complicated issues we face. I firmly believe, regardless of party, that compromise and coalition building is essential to productive discourse and achieving meaningful results. Moreover, I will do my best to communicate these efforts to my constituents in a transparent manner consistent with the high levels of service that they expect, deserve and which we strive to provide.

Is There Anything Else You Would Like Folks To Know About You?

I am a parent, neighbor and friend who wants to serve by delivering my best to everyone in this community, which I strive to do by being an open-minded listener who arrives at decisions with considerate, empathetic and informed deliberation.