2024 Candidate Profile: Elizabeth Moro For PA State Rep, 160th District

CHESTER COUNTY, 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: Elizabeth Moro

Office sought: PA state representative, 160th district (covering parts of Chester and Delaware counties)

Town of residence: Chadds Ford

Education: Western Michigan University, Summa Cum Laude, Political Science, Public Policy, and Women's Studies

Occupation: Small Business Owner, Centreville Place: Cafe + Market, Associate Broker Real Estate in PA + DE

Campaign website: elizabethmoro.com

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?

As a real estate broker, I understand the challenges related to housing shortages. We need to construct more homes in our country to keep up with growth and attrition, but we also need to ensure that we don't over-develop and burden our communities. I have invested significant time and money along with my husband, Vince, to work with our community to protect critical natural areas like Crebilly Farm and Barnard’s Orchard. We have our 12-acre farm under a conservation easement to safeguard endangered species. Our communities will continue to flourish with thoughtful development that considers a comprehensive, sustainable plan for the future--Chester County's Landscapes 3 and Delaware County 2035 are examples of that. We joined our neighbors to change the fate of Crebilly Farm – its original plans would have caused significant traffic issues in an already congested area, overcrowded schools, and increased costs for existing residents. Finding a balance between preserving open space and responsible development will be crucial for the future well-being of our area, and I will continue to work with our state and local governments to do that.

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?

Our Commonwealth is at a critical juncture, and we need leaders willing to listen and work hard to unite people on both sides. As the 11th of 12 children, I learned the value of teamwork in resolving differences and ensuring everyone's voice is heard. Through my community effort to help preserve Crebilly Farm in Westtown Township, I demonstrated how neighbors can work together to create a better future for the entire community and protect the environment. My experience running for U.S. Congress in 2017-2018 underscored the urgent need to unite people, inspiring me to write The Civil Graces Project, a book focused on core principles that unite us. We must continue to move forward together, and I am committed to leading us in that direction.

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

We have a divided legislature, which slows the process of creating positive change that Pennsylvanians want--bills pass the House only to die in the Senate because of hyper-partisan control. A representative must show up and advocate for all their constituents' needs, which is my focus. Our representatives need to be active and visible in the community, not just at election time, and communication on the issues before the Commonwealth needs to be communicated in a timely manner. With transparency, we build trust and connection with the people we serve.

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

I would like to see more people getting involved in the political process. Running for office is a significant challenge for most individuals. The worrying part is that the process has become more aggressive and expensive, so only some people want to step forward. When I talk to voters, they express exhaustion with the continuous process. I support open primaries, which would give voters more access to who ends up on the ballot. Our voting rights are under severe challenge, and we need to protect access to the ballot.

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

From a young age, I've been passionate about serving others. My interest in politics was sparked by my father, which led me to pursue education in Public Policy and Political Science. Over the years, I've supported local candidates and community projects. In 2017, I ran for U.S. Congress in U.S. District 7, where I gained insights into our community's needs and the challenges of our increasingly divided society.

I decided to run this race after encouragement from local leaders and upon seeing an ad for Representative Craig Williams' Attorney General campaign filled with divisive and vitriolic language. Our community deserves better representation. Williams' approach and voting record focus on personal vendettas and opinions of his special interests rather than addressing our community's needs. I am committed to earning and maintaining our community's trust and believe in the importance of moving forward together--protecting our hard-earned rights like reproductive freedom, fully funding our public schools, and responsibly growing our state's economy for the well-being of our communities.

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

I have extensive experience as a community leader and have tackled various issues that affect our constituents. My background has equipped me to address many concerns in my district. I am committed to upholding our democracy, championing public education, and safeguarding hard-earned rights like reproductive freedom and voters' rights. I am well aware of the complexities of running a small business, including ensuring fair wages for employees and advocating for economic policies that reduce family costs. As a real estate broker, I assist families in finding housing and advocate for equitable housing practices.