Election 2022: Meet State Representative Nancy Guenst

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. Nancy Guenst, a Democrat running for reelection to Pennsylvania's 152nd Legislative District in Montgomery County.

Guenst is running against Republican challenger John Weinrich, Sr.

Patch sent Guenst a candidate questionnaire and below are her responses.

Name: Nancy Guenst

Age: 64

Town Of Residence: Hatboro

What Communities Does Your District Cover? Hatboro, Upper Moreland, Lower Moreland, Bryn Athyn and a portion of Abington.

Party Affiliation (If Applicable): Democrat

Family: Married to my husband Steve for 30 years. Son Alex Myers, 3 siblings, aunt to 8 and great aunt to 10. Mother to 2 rescue pups, Charlie and Mack.

Education: Hatboro-Horsham High School, Montgomery County Community College, Defense Language Institute, Monterey, CA.

Occupation: State Representative, previously the owner of Designs In Stone, Inc. for 23 years.

How Long Have You Held Public Office? If You Are A Political Newcomer, What Made You Decide To Get Involved In Politics? I previously served 2 terms on Hatboro Council and was elected mayor of Hatboro in 2016. I was elected as your State Representative in 2020.

How Long Have You Lived In Pennsylvania? How Long Have You Lived In The District You Either Represent, Or Are Seeking To Represent? I’ve lived here in Hatboro my entire life with the exception of my U.S. Army service.

What Are Some Of The Top Issues Facing Your District? Opening up our offices for State Rep was a real eye opener. We are considered the gold standard in Harrisburg for the number of constituents we have served which is literally in the thousands. Everything from unemployment issues, senior services, veteran services, mental health advocacy, health issues, homelessness, rental income aid, identification aid and food insecurities are just a sample of the help we’ve been able to offer. These are all top issues and top priorities.

What In Your Background Qualifies You For The Elected Position? My opponent tends to call me a “career politician”, which basically is not the truth. My careers throughout my life have been my service to my country, my service to my Borough and my State and owning my own business for 23 years, which I had to shelter two years ago due to COVID-19. My opponent also keeps leaning on his family-owned business which he hasn’t worked at in over 20 years while yes, I’m going to say it, he has been a “career salesman”.

Do You Believe Adhering To Party Doctrine Or Serving Constituents Is More Important?
Serving my constituents is always my top priority. We help everyone regardless of party affiliation. I have over 60,000 bosses and it’s my job to make sure they get any and all help whenever needed. Over 11,000 of them have walked through our doors, called us for help or emailed us for opinions or directions.

Are You Willing To Work Across The Political Aisle To Get Things Accomplished?
Of course. I have co-sponsored numerous bills brought to the House by my colleagues across the aisle floor for legislative actions. These bills include veteran affairs, seniors, nursing shortages, environmental actions, child advocacy, health care, and agriculture issues, to name a few.

Is There Anything Else You Would Like Folks To Know About You?
Yes. I was raised early on to always give back to my community, to be empathetic, to listen and to do. If that means I’m a “career politician”, then I’ll wear that label proudly. I love my job and will fight for our freedoms every day. I hunt, I fish, I walk the trails and work hard every day. I hope you allow me to continue my work for you. Please vote on November 8th. Sincerely, Nancy Guenst.