2024 Candidate Profile: Shawn Blickley For PA State Rep, 26th District

SPRING CITY, PA — Election Day is just around the corner on Nov. 5, and Patch is covering races at the local, county, and state level across the region.

Candidate profiles include identical forms sent to each candidate a given race, and include background information and questions on major issues which have both local and global impact.

Name: Shawn Blickley

Age: 52

Office sought: PA House, 26th district

Party: Republican

Town of residence: Spring City

Education: High School – Tamaqua Area HS, Tamaqua PA

Undergraduate – Jacksonville University, Jacksonville FL (Finance and
Accounting)

Graduate - Jacksonville University, Jacksonville FL (MBA)

Occupation: Farmer

Campaign website: https://www.facebook.com/Shawn...

Has development gotten out of control in the district, and how do you plan to handle the
growing traffic problem in the region at large?

I don’t believe that development is out of control, but I do believe that the
municipalities have not planned for the growth and since they did not plan for the
development current infrastructure cannot keep pace.

Overdevelopment and growing traffic congestion are critical issues in many
regions, and the Pennsylvania 26th District is no exception. In this district
particularly in the eastern part of the district development has expanded rapidly
without sufficient infrastructure improvements, it has led to increased traffic,
environmental concerns, and strain on public services. I believe that by
implementing a balanced approach that encourages responsible development
while upgrading infrastructure and public services, the district can manage
growth without sacrificing quality of life.

To address the growing traffic problem and overdevelopment, here are potential
approaches:

• Smart Growth Planning
• Infrastructure Investment
• Traffic Flow Optimization
• Public Transit Expansion
• Community Engagement

The PA legislature has long been deeply divided. What would you do over the next several years to bridge the partisan divide and recurring stalemates?

As a Legislator I will be committed to bridging the partisan divide in Pennsylvania’s legislature, it’s crucial to approach governance as a consensus-builder, focusing on the issues that matter most to all constituents, regardless of party. Here are some key strategies that I plan to employ to build a consensus caucus. By focusing on practical solutions, maintaining an open line of communication, and addressing the needs of everyday Pennsylvanians, a Republican legislator can build a reputation as a pragmatic leader who can work across party lines to achieve meaningful results.

1. Lead by the GOYA Principle
2. Focus on Shared Priorities
3. Open Communication Channels
4. Compromise on Non-Ideological Issues
5. Promote Transparency and Public Accountability
6. Fiscal Responsibility and Pragmatic Solutions
7. Involve Stakeholders

Does state government have too much power or not enough power in Pennsylvania?

In my opinion, state government has too much power in certain areas,
particularly where it infringes on individual liberties and local decision-making.
The belief is that government should be limited, and power should be
decentralized, giving more control to local communities and individuals. Here are
some key points:

Do you find it worrisome that most voters only have a choice of two candidates in most
races?

I would not characterize it as worrisome. While the two-party system has been a
pillar of American democracy, I believe encouraging a wider range of candidates
and competition can lead to more dynamic political representation, giving voters
more meaningful choices at the ballot box.

Was there a defining moment or experience that drove you to first run for elected office?

I am running because we have seen nearly a year and a half be wasted by a
hyper-partisan Democrat majority that can’t seem to get the job done. What I
hear from friends and neighbors is that they are sick of the political games in
Harrisburg where Democrats take months off at a time rather than deliver on
important issues like bringing down everyday costs, fully funding education, and
stopping violent crime. I care about the future of our area and the future of the
Commonwealth. The future is about good jobs, safe streets, and great education.
The future is about local development. The future is not about partisan games played by politicians. I’m not a politician. I am a 23-year Navy Veteran, small business owner and Farmer. I enjoy talking with people in our community like you because I believe that I can contribute to a brighter future for you, your neighbors, and our community.

What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job
moving forward?

While I may not have traditional political experience, I believe my background
offers valuable perspectives that can benefit our community. As a 23-year Navy
Veteran, I have learned the importance of leadership, discipline, and serving the
greater good. My experience as a small business owner has given me firsthand
insight into the challenges facing our local economy, allowing me to approach
issues with a practical mindset focused on solutions.

Many successful politicians have come from non-political backgrounds, bringing
fresh ideas and innovative approaches to governance. For instance, former
President Donald Trump and former Governor of California Arnold
Schwarzenegger both transitioned from business to politics, emphasizing that
diverse experiences can enrich our political landscape.

I am committed to listening to the voices of our community, understanding their
needs, and working tirelessly to represent them effectively. My focus is on
building relationships, fostering collaboration, and delivering results for our
district.