CANDIDATE QUESTIONNAIRE 2014 GENERAL ELECTION
This Candidate Questionnaire was prepared by the Pennsylvania Catholic Conference (PCC) and distributed by the Archdiocese of Philadelphia’s Office for Communications.
The PCC traditionally interviews gubernatorial candidates regarding their positions, but, according to the PCC, Tom Wolf declined their request for an interview. Therefore, the PCC researched his positions and presented them for informational purposes. Additional information prepared by the PCC includes an interview with Governor Tom Corbett (see the interview transcript and survey responses) and a column outlining positions of the two candidates. See the PCC’s website at PaCatholic.org for more information.
Candidates were surveyed on a broad range of topics of interest to Catholic voters, and their responses are being published without comment. The Archdiocese expresses no preference for any particular response to any question.
The Archdiocese does not endorse or oppose any candidate for political office, nor does it intervene in political campaigns in any way.
The Archdiocese urges voters to become fully informed about candidates’ positions. The qualifications of candidates for public office cannot be fully assessed by reference to this or any other single candidate questionnaire. Voters are therefore encouraged to obtain as much information about candidates for public office from as many sources as possible. To learn about your legislative district or to locate your polling place, contact your County Board Elections.
ELECTION DAY IS TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 2014.
POLLS ARE OPEN FROM 7 A.M. TO 8 P.M.
Please make every effort to vote.
U.S. HOUSE OF RESPRESENTATIVES
Candidates Responding
District-Candidate (Party)
7. Patrick Meehan (Republican)
13. Carson Dee Adcock (Republican):
16. Joseph Pitts (Republican)
All other candidates did not respond.
1. Do you support or oppose legislation to continue and expand current federal laws that provide educational benefits to students and teachers in private and religious schools on an equitable basis in comparison to the benefits received by public school students and teachers?
7. Patrick Meehan (R): Support
13. Carson Dee Adcock (R): Support; Comments: I attended public schools. I support public school education but I believe parents and students should have the opportunity to choose their best education option.
16. Joseph Pitts (R): Support
2. Which statement reflects your position most accurately?
a) I support legalized abortion.
b) I oppose legalized abortion in all circumstances.
c) I oppose legalized abortion, except when the life of the mother is in danger or the pregnancy is a result of rape or incest.
7. Patrick Meehan (R): c) I oppose legalized abortion, except when the life of the mother is in danger or the pregnancy is a result of rape or incest.
13. Carson Dee Adcock (R): c) I oppose legalized abortion, except when the life of the mother is in danger or the pregnancy is a result of rape or incest; Comments: If my daughter were raped I would encourage her to have the baby but would be opposed to mandating that position to a person who was a victim of a crime.
16. Joseph Pitts (R): c) I oppose legalized abortion, except when the life of the mother is in danger or the pregnancy is a result of rape or incest.
3. Do you support or oppose legislation that would permit undocumented immigrants who have lived in the United States for a number of years, have worked and built equities in our country, and who do not have criminal records to register with the government and take steps to earn legal status?
7. Patrick Meehan (R): No response; Comments: I do not support amnesty. There should be penalties for breaking the law and certain restitutions would need to be made before allowing illegal immigrants to begin the naturalization process.
13. Carson Dee Adcock (R): Support; Comments: Once we secure our borders and strengthen I.N.S. undocumented immigrants as described above they should be able to register with the government and be documented.
16. Joseph Pitts (R): Oppose
4. What is your position on providing a federal tax credit to businesses that donate to scholarship organizations that provide scholarships for low-income students at private and religious schools in grades kindergarten through 12?
7. Patrick Meehan (R): Support
13. Carson Dee Adcock (R): Support
16. Joseph Pitts (R): Support
5. Do you support or oppose robust funding for poverty-focused assistance to reduce global poverty and increase the percentage of gross domestic product (GDP) contributed in foreign aid?
7. Patrick Meehan (R): Support
13. Carson Dee Adcock (R): Oppose; Comments: I support robust funding of private Catholic Charities and organizations like World Vision, Compassion International and Samaritan’s Purse.
16. Joseph Pitts (R): Oppose
6. Do you support or oppose robust levels of aid for refugees who are fleeing from persecution abroad and to provide adequate funding for the U.S. refugee admissions and resettlement programs?
7. Patrick Meehan (R): Support
13. Carson Dee Adcock (R): Support
16. Joseph Pitts (R): Support
7. Do you support or oppose legislation to prevent federal agencies and states that receive federal funds from discriminating against health care providers who do not perform or participate in abortions (Hyde-Weldon Amendment)?
7. Patrick Meehan (R): Support
13. Carson Dee Adcock (R): Support; Comments: The Government should not discriminate against health care providers who do not participate in abortions.
16. Joseph Pitts (R): Support
8. What is your position on legalizing same-sex marriage?
7. Patrick Meehan (R): No response; Comments: I believe marriage is between one man and one woman.
13. Carson Dee Adcock (R): Oppose; Comments: Marriage is a sacrament of the Church and should be defined by the Church. My position is that the government should not define the institution of marriage.
16. Joseph Pitts (R): Oppose
9. Do you support or oppose legislation that would guarantee comprehensive freedom of conscience for health care professionals, providers and institutions?
7. Patrick Meehan (R): Support
13. Carson Dee Adcock (R): Support
16. Joseph Pitts (R): Support
10. Do you support or oppose efforts to pass legislation (i.e., the Federal Employment Non-Discrimination Act) that would make sexual orientation and gender identity or expression protected classes that are equivalent to existing protected classes (e.g., race, religion, sex, etc.)?
7. Patrick Meehan (R): No response; Comments: I oppose discrimination. I would have to review any legislation to ensure it protects everyone’s constitutional rights.
13. Carson Dee Adcock (R): Oppose; Comments: I do not believe we need more protected classes.
16. Joseph Pitts (R): Oppose
PENNSYLVANIA GENERAL ASSEMBLY
STATE SENATE
Candidates Responding
District-Candidate (Party)
12. Stewart Greenleaf (Republican)
24. Bob Mensch (Republican)
26. Tom McGarrigle (Republican)
All other candidates did not respond.
1. What is your position on legislation that would provide direct grants to parents to choose the schools that they believe are best suited for their children, including non-public schools?
12. Stewart Greenleaf (R): Support
24. Bob Mensch (R): Support
26. Tom McGarrigle (R): Support; Comments: I am Catholic and support our Catholic Schools. I support increasing funding for the Educational Improvement Tax Credit (EITC) program, as well as the Opportunity Scholarship tax credit program, which help to support funding for students who wish to attend private and parochial schools. However, I would not support diverting existing funding for public education away from public schools. If there were a separate funding source which did not impact public school funding resources, I would be open to that as an option.
2. Which statement reflects your position most accurately?
a) I support legalized abortion.
b) I oppose legalized abortion in all circumstances.
c) I oppose legalized abortion, except when the life of the mother is in danger or the pregnancy is a result of rape or incest.
12. Stewart Greenleaf (R): No response; Comments: I do not support abortion after viability.
24. Bob Mensch (R): c) I oppose legalized abortion, except when the life of the mother is in danger or the pregnancy is a result of rape or incest.
26. Tom McGarrigle (R): c) I oppose legalized abortion, except when the life of the mother is in danger or the pregnancy is a result of rape or incest.
3. What is your position on legislation that would add state restrictions to existing federal prohibitions concerning the hiring of undocumented immigrants or providing healthcare or government services to the undocumented immigrant?
12. Stewart Greenleaf (R): No response; Comments: In some circumstances I would support providing service depending on mitigating factors.
24. Bob Mensch (R): Oppose; Comments: Our precious government financial resources must be used to support taxpayer, economy contributing, legal residents/taxpayers.
26. Tom McGarrigle (R): No response; Comments: My position would depend on the type of restrictions the legislation seeks to put in place. I would be concerned with restrictions that could jeopardize the health and life of any individual.
4. What is your position on legalizing same-sex marriage?
12. Stewart Greenleaf (R): Oppose
24. Bob Mensch (R): Oppose
26. Tom McGarrigle (R): No response; Comments: From a state government perspective, I do not oppose same-sex civil unions. However, I would be opposed to any legislation that would require the Catholic Church to conduct same-sex marriages. Government should not impose morality on the Catholic Church.
5. Which statement reflects your position most accurately?
a) Pennsylvania’s anti-discrimination laws for housing, employment and public accommodation should include “sexual orientation” and “gender identity or expression” as protected classes, no exceptions.
b) Pennsylvania’s anti-discrimination laws for housing, employment and public accommodation should include “sexual orientation” and “gender identity or expression” as protected classes, but should contain exceptions in narrow circumstances to protect religious institutions.
c) Pennsylvania’s anti-discrimination laws for housing, employment and public accommodation should include “sexual orientation” and “gender identity or expression” as protected classes, but should contain exceptions in narrow circumstances to protect religious conscience for business owners.
d) Pennsylvania should not amend its anti-discrimination laws to add “sexual orientation” and “gender identity and expression” as protected classes at this time.
12. Stewart Greenleaf (R): b) Pennsylvania’s anti-discrimination laws for housing, employment and public accommodation should include “sexual orientation” and “gender identity or expression” as protected classes, but should contain exceptions in narrow circumstances to protect religious institutions; AND c) Pennsylvania’s anti-discrimination laws for housing, employment and public accommodation should include “sexual orientation” and “gender identity or expression” as protected classes, but should contain exceptions in narrow circumstances to protect religious conscience for business owners; AND d) Pennsylvania should not amend its anti-discrimination laws to add “sexual orientation” and “gender identity and expression” as protected classes at this time.
24. Bob Mensch (R): d) Pennsylvania should not amend its anti-discrimination laws to add “sexual orientation” and “gender identity and expression” as protected classes at this time; Comments: Anti-discrimination laws already exist to protect everyone. We need not create a specific class.
26. Tom McGarrigle (R): b) Pennsylvania’s anti-discrimination laws for housing, employment and public accommodation should include “sexual orientation” and “gender identity or expression” as protected classes, but should contain exceptions in narrow circumstances to protect religious institutions.
6. Assuming there is money in the state budget, what is your position on increasing funding for textbooks and instructional materials for non-public school students at the same rate as increases in subsidies for public school students?
12. Stewart Greenleaf (R): Support
24. Bob Mensch (R): Support
26. Tom McGarrigle (R): Support
7. Which statement reflects your position most accurately?
a) Pennsylvania should accept federal funds under the Affordable Care Act and allow more people, including the working poor, to participate in Medicaid.
b) Pennsylvania should use the additional federal funds under the Affordable Care Act to allow more people, including the working poor, to access the private insurance market.
c) Pennsylvania should not accept Affordable Care Act funds.
12. Stewart Greenleaf (R): a) Pennsylvania should accept federal funds under the Affordable Care Act and allow more people, including the working poor, to participate in Medicaid.
24. Bob Mensch (R): b) Pennsylvania should use the additional federal funds under the Affordable Care Act to allow more people, including the working poor, to access the private insurance market.
26. Tom McGarrigle (R): b) Pennsylvania should use the additional federal funds under the Affordable Care Act to allow more people, including the working poor, to access the private insurance market.
8. What is your position on the death penalty?
12. Stewart Greenleaf (R): No response; Comments: I have concerns about the death penalty in Pennsylvania based on convictions of innocent people.
24. Bob Mensch (R): Support
26. Tom McGarrigle (R): Support
9. Which statement reflects your position most accurately?
a) Religious childcare and pre-kindergarten providers should be subject to government review of educational content.
b) Religious childcare and pre-kindergarten providers should follow state standards for health and safety of children, but be free to determine their own educational content based on the teachings of their faith tradition.
c) Religious childcare and pre-kindergarten providers should be free from government regulation.
12. Stewart Greenleaf (R): b) Religious childcare and pre-kindergarten providers should follow state standards for health and safety of children, but be free to determine their own educational content based on the teachings of their faith tradition.
24. Bob Mensch (R): b) Religious childcare and pre-kindergarten providers should follow state standards for health and safety of children, but be free to determine their own educational content based on the teachings of their faith tradition.
26. Tom McGarrigle (R): a) Religious childcare and pre-kindergarten providers should be subject to government review of educational content.
PENNSYLVANIA GENERAL ASSEMBLY
STATE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
Candidates Responding
District-Candidate (Party)
18. Gene DiGirolamo (Republican)
53. Dottie Miller (Democrat)
53. Robert Godshall (Republican)
61. Kate Harper (Republican)
145. Craig Staats (Republican)
146. Mark Painter (Democrat)
154. Robert Gillies (Republican)
155. Becky Corbin (Republican)
160. Stephen Barrar (Republican)
161. Joseph Hackett (Republican)
163. Jamie Santora (Republican)
165. Bill Adolph (Republican)
168. Tom Killion (Republican)
178. Scott Petri (Republican)
All other candidates did not respond.
1. What is your position on legislation that would provide direct grants to parents to choose the schools that they believe are best suited for their children, including non-public schools?
18. Gene DiGirolamo (R): Support
53. Dottie Miller (D): Oppose; Comments: We need to bolster up the public schools so that the education they provide to all students meet the needs of each child. I went down the path of non-public school with my son when we felt he needed additional help and found that the help provided by public schools when the parent was involved was sufficient to provide him a good education. Religious training was provided by us and our church.
53. Robert Godshall (R): Support
61. Kate Harper (R): Support
145. Craig Staats (R): Support; Comments: Grants to parents ok
146. Mark Painter (D): Oppose
154. Robert Gillies (R): Support; Comments: Successful children should not be punished by being trapped in poor performing schools. Hard work should be rewarded. Students should also have the ability to cross county and school district lines to attend more successful public schools as well as non-public schools.
155. Becky Corbin (R): Support
160. Stephen Barrar (R): Support
161. Joseph Hackett (R): Support
163. Jamie Santora (R): Support; Comments: As a Catholic and parent of a student in Catholic grade school, I am a strong supporter of our Archdiocesan schools. I was a leader in the Faith in the Future effort, which helped to prevent the closure of a number of our region’s Catholic high schools, including Bonner and Prendie. I am a supporter of the Educational Improvement Tax Credit (EITC) program and Opportunity Scholarship tax credit program, which help to provide scholarships to children to attend the private and parochial school of their choice. However, I would oppose any effort to divert funding from our public schools. In fact, I support a severance tax on Marcellus Shale drilling which will increase funding for K-12 education by more than $1 billion.
165. Bill Adolph (R): Support; Comments: I am a strong supporter of Catholic schools. During the state budget process, I supported increasing funding for the Educational Improvement Tax Credit (EITC) program, as well as the creation of the Opportunity Scholarship tax credit program, which help to support funding for students who wish to attend private and parochial schools.
168. Tom Killion (R): Support
178. Scott Petri (R): Support
2. Which statement reflects your position most accurately?
a) I support legalized abortion.
b) I oppose legalized abortion in all circumstances.
c) I oppose legalized abortion, except when the life of the mother is in danger or the pregnancy is a result of rape or incest.
18. Gene DiGirolamo (R): c) I oppose legalized abortion, except when the life of the mother is in danger or the pregnancy is a result of rape or incest.
53. Dottie Miller (D): a) I support legalized abortion; Comments: I feel it should be available, safe, but unnecessary. It is not my place to judge why a woman desires an abortion but I want to see her supported whether she chooses to abort or keep her child. I cannot judge someone for their actions that is not my place. As a woman who lost 3 children during pregnancy one of whom was at 20 weeks gestation I know the pain of losing a baby. I also know family and friends who struggled with genetic decisions they had to face. No woman CHOOSES to abort without an emotional struggle. But to send her to a back alley isn’t right either. This conversation needs to start long before a woman becomes pregnant.
53. Robert Godshall (R): c) I oppose legalized abortion, except when the life of the mother is in danger or the pregnancy is a result of rape or incest.
61. Kate Harper (R): c) I oppose legalized abortion, except when the life of the mother is in danger or the pregnancy is a result of rape or incest; Comments: However, I am a lawyer, sworn to uphold the law and currently the law allows abortion in more instances than I would prefer.
145. Craig Staats (R): c) I oppose legalized abortion, except when the life of the mother is in danger or the pregnancy is a result of rape or incest;
146. Mark Painter (D): a) I support legalized abortion.
154. Robert Gillies (R): c) I oppose legalized abortion, except when the life of the mother is in danger or the pregnancy is a result of rape or incest; Comments: The crime of rape must be reported timely. Incest must be prosecuted in all cases. Everyone has the right to defend their life.
155. Becky Corbin (R): c) I oppose legalized abortion, except when the life of the mother is in danger or the pregnancy is a result of rape or incest
160. Stephen Barrar (R): c) I oppose legalized abortion, except when the life of the mother is in danger or the pregnancy is a result of rape or incest.
161. Joseph Hackett (R): c) I oppose legalized abortion, except when the life of the mother is in danger or the pregnancy is a result of rape or incest.
163. Jamie Santora (R): c) I oppose legalized abortion, except when the life of the mother is in danger or the pregnancy is a result of rape or incest.
165. Bill Adolph (R): c) I oppose legalized abortion, except when the life of the mother is in danger or the pregnancy is a result of rape or incest.
168. Tom Killion (R): c) I oppose legalized abortion, except when the life of the mother is in danger or the pregnancy is a result of rape or incest.
178. Scott Petri (R): c) I oppose legalized abortion, except when the life of the mother is in danger or the pregnancy is a result of rape or incest.
3. What is your position on legislation that would add state restrictions to existing federal prohibitions concerning the hiring of undocumented immigrants or providing healthcare or government services to the undocumented immigrant?
18. Gene DiGirolamo (R): Oppose
53. Dottie Miller (D): Support; Comments: The immigration issue is a difficult one. Undocumented children need to be cared for as do their families based on the teachings of Christ, but the law is the law. We need to provide a legal way to citizenship for illegals so they are part of the paying system in this country.
53. Robert Godshall (R): No response; Comments: No position.
61. Kate Harper (R): Support; Comments: While immigration reform is a federal issue, the states’ laws should be consistent with federal law.
145. Craig Staats (R): Oppose
146. Mark Painter (D): Oppose
154. Robert Gillies (R): Support; Comments: If you commit an illegal act, you should not be rewarded. The government has no constitutional responsibility for illegal immigrants. However, individuals can choose to assist people based on their own convictions. One must differentiate between the constitutional role of government and the moral responsibility of individuals. Somehow government has been assigned moral responsibility that it cannot achieve. As government must forcible take from on to give to another.
155. Becky Corbin (R): Support
160. Stephen Barrar (R): Support
161. Joseph Hackett (R): No response; Comments: Will discuss
163. Jamie Santora (R): No response; Comments: My position would depend on the legislation, its provisions and the type of restrictions it would seek to impose. However, I would not support any legislation that would restrict an undocumented immigrant from receiving access to life-saving medical treatment.
165. Bill Adolph (R): No response Comments: My support or opposition would depend on the text and provisions of the legislation. Absent specific legislative language, I cannot state definitively my position.
168. Tom Killion (R): Support
178. Scott Petri (R): Support
4. What is your position on legalizing same-sex marriage?
18. Gene DiGirolamo (R): Oppose
53. Dottie Miller (D): Support; Comments: Biblically many believe this is not right but emotionally partners who have been together for years without legal marriage have no legal ability to care for each other when one becomes ill. This is an emotional issue. It is an equality issue. Same sex couples are not asking for your approval they are asking to be treated fairly. Again the teachings of Christ tell us to be kind to one another and not judge.
53. Robert Godshall (R): Oppose
61. Kate Harper (R): No response; Comments: Too late! The courts have already legalized same sex marriage in PA.
145. Craig Staats (R): Oppose
146. Mark Painter (D): Support
154. Robert Gillies (R): Oppose; Comments: The government has no compelling interest in any institution other than traditional marriage. This does not preclude two people from entering into a binding contract that includes the same legal standing as marriage. If two people want to be united in this fashion, it is not the government role to stop this contract nor is it the government responsibility to promote this contract.
155. Becky Corbin (R): Oppose
160. Stephen Barrar (R): No response; Comments: The courts have already declared same sex marriage is legal in Penna.
161. Joseph Hackett (R): Oppose
163. Jamie Santora (R): No response; Comments: I respect our Constitution and the state Supreme Court has ruled that same sex marriage is now legal in Pennsylvania.
165. Bill Adolph (R): No response; Comments: The Pennsylvania Supreme Court has overturned the Defense of Marriage Act and ruled that same-sex marriage is legal in Pennsylvania under the Constitution.
168. Tom Killion (R): Support
178. Scott Petri (R): Oppose; Comments: Given the court decision churches should be able to decide who they marry.
5. Which statement reflects your position most accurately?
a) Pennsylvania’s anti-discrimination laws for housing, employment and public accommodation should include “sexual orientation” and “gender identity or expression” as protected classes, no exceptions.
b) Pennsylvania’s anti-discrimination laws for housing, employment and public accommodation should include “sexual orientation” and “gender identity or expression” as protected classes, but should contain exceptions in narrow circumstances to protect religious institutions.
c) Pennsylvania’s anti-discrimination laws for housing, employment and public accommodation should include “sexual orientation” and “gender identity or expression” as protected classes, but should contain exceptions in narrow circumstances to protect religious conscience for business owners.
d) Pennsylvania should not amend its anti-discrimination laws to add “sexual orientation” and “gender identity and expression” as protected classes at this time.
18. Gene DiGirolamo (R): b) Pennsylvania’s anti-discrimination laws for housing, employment and public accommodation should include “sexual orientation” and “gender identity or expression” as protected classes, but should contain exceptions in narrow circumstances to protect religious institutions.
53. Dottie Miller (D): a) Pennsylvania’s anti-discrimination laws for housing, employment and public accommodation should include “sexual orientation” and “gender identity or expression” as protected classes, no exceptions; Comments: Whether I like how you look or who you choose as a partner should have no bearing on how you are treated. Jesus worked with prostitutes, lepers, liars and numerous others and treated every one of them as though there was no issue. The current Pope has spoken about treating people correctly. To hide behind religion is choosing not to face a difference in people.
53. Robert Godshall (R): b) Pennsylvania’s anti-discrimination laws for housing, employment and public accommodation should include “sexual orientation” and “gender identity or expression” as protected classes, but should contain exceptions in narrow circumstances to protect religious institutions.
61. Kate Harper (R): b) Pennsylvania’s anti-discrimination laws for housing, employment and public accommodation should include “sexual orientation” and “gender identity or expression” as protected classes, but should contain exceptions in narrow circumstances to protect religious institutions. AND c) Pennsylvania’s anti-discrimination laws for housing, employment and public accommodation should include “sexual orientation” and “gender identity or expression” as protected classes, but should contain exceptions in narrow circumstances to protect religious conscience for business owners.
145. Craig Staats (R): b) Pennsylvania’s anti-discrimination laws for housing, employment and public accommodation should include “sexual orientation” and “gender identity or expression” as protected classes, but should contain exceptions in narrow circumstances to protect religious institutions. AND c) Pennsylvania’s anti-discrimination laws for housing, employment and public accommodation should include “sexual orientation” and “gender identity or expression” as protected classes, but should contain exceptions in narrow circumstances to protect religious conscience for business owners.
146. Mark Painter (D): b) Pennsylvania’s anti-discrimination laws for housing, employment and public accommodation should include “sexual orientation” and “gender identity or expression” as protected classes, but should contain exceptions in narrow circumstances to protect religious institutions.
154. Robert Gillies (R): d) Pennsylvania should not amend its anti-discrimination laws to add “sexual orientation” and “gender identity and expression” as protected classes at this time; Comments: Life style choices are not with in the government’s responsibility to legislate. Individual liberty cannot be mandated, it exists on its own. On is allowed moral objection to behavior and one is entitled to behave in their own fashion.
155. Becky Corbin (R): d) Pennsylvania should not amend its anti-discrimination laws to add “sexual orientation” and “gender identity and expression” as protected classes at this time
160. Stephen Barrar (R): c) Pennsylvania’s anti-discrimination laws for housing, employment and public accommodation should include “sexual orientation” and “gender identity or expression” as protected classes, but should contain exceptions in narrow circumstances to protect religious conscience for business owners.
161. Joseph Hackett (R): No response; Comments: Will discuss
163. Jamie Santora (R): b) Pennsylvania’s anti-discrimination laws for housing, employment and public accommodation should include “sexual orientation” and gender identity or expression” as protected classes, but should contain exceptions in narrow circumstances to protect religious institutions.
165. Bill Adolph (R): b) Pennsylvania’s anti-discrimination laws for housing, employment and public accommodation should include “sexual orientation” and gender identity or expression” as protected classes, but should contain exceptions in narrow circumstances to protect religious institutions; Comments: The teachings and beliefs of the Church should not be legislated or infringed upon by government. However, the church’s moral teaching have always been one of openness and acceptance of all people as children of God and it is my hope that this inclusionary view would be extended to all individuals. Pope Francis recently said “who am I to judge a gay person of goodwill who seeks the Lord,” a view that I share.
168. Tom Killion (R): b) Pennsylvania’s anti-discrimination laws for housing, employment and public accommodation should include “sexual orientation” and gender identity or expression” as protected classes, but should contain exceptions in narrow circumstances to protect religious institutions.
178. Scott Petri (R): b) Pennsylvania’s anti-discrimination laws for housing, employment and public accommodation should include “sexual orientation” and “gender identity or expression” as protected classes, but should contain exceptions in narrow circumstances to protect religious institutions.
6. Assuming there is money in the state budget, what is your position on increasing funding for textbooks and instructional materials for non-public school students at the same rate as increases in subsidies for public school students?
18. Gene DiGirolamo (R): Support
53. Dottie Miller (D): Oppose; Comments: Sorry but again public schools are already being impacted with major cuts there will be no money in the budget for public or private schools to fund text books or much else.
53. Robert Godshall (R): Support; Comments: I have been a big supporter of the EITC program and continue to support all other funding sources.
61. Kate Harper (R): Support
145. Craig Staats (R): No response; Comments: Undecided. Textbooks – Decision would be based on how much additional funding is available.
146. Mark Painter (D): Support
154. Robert Gillies (R): Oppose; Comments: As a product of Catholic Schools, as are my children, the money from the state will come with mandates that may be in contradiction to the curriculum desired. The Student should have a fixed funding that goes with the student to be used by the school of choice. Direct funding should not go to the non-public schools. Going to a non-public school is a choice.
155. Becky Corbin (R): Support
160. Stephen Barrar (R): Support
161. Joseph Hackett (R): Support
163. Jamie Santora (R): Support; Comments: I would support as long as it does not decrease money available for public schools.
165. Bill Adolph (R): Support
168. Tom Killion (R): Support
178. Scott Petri (R): Support
7. Which statement reflects your position most accurately?
a) Pennsylvania should accept federal funds under the Affordable Care Act and allow more people, including the working poor, to participate in Medicaid.
b) Pennsylvania should use the additional federal funds under the Affordable Care Act to allow more people, including the working poor, to access the private insurance market.
c) Pennsylvania should not accept Affordable Care Act funds.
18. Gene DiGirolamo (R): a) Pennsylvania should accept federal funds under the Affordable Care Act and allow more people, including the working poor, to participate in Medicaid.
53. Dottie Miller (D): a) Pennsylvania should accept federal funds under the Affordable Care Act and allow more people, including the working poor, to participate in Medicaid; Comments: If you are the working poor providing Medicaid would help many to be healthy and care for their families. To force the working poor into private insurance when they cannot afford to take care of their current family needs is foolish.
53. Robert Godshall (R): c) Pennsylvania should not accept Affordable Care Act funds; Comments: I support Pennsylvania’s position of expanding Medicaid.
61. Kate Harper (R): b) Pennsylvania should use the additional federal funds under the Affordable Care Act to allow more people, including the working poor, to access the private insurance market; Comments: Done. Governor Corbett has done this.
145. Craig Staats (R): b) Pennsylvania should use the additional federal funds under the Affordable Care Act to allow more people, including the working poor, to access the private insurance market;
146. Mark Painter (D): a) Pennsylvania should accept federal funds under the Affordable Care Act and allow more people, including the working poor, to participate in Medicaid.
154. Robert Gillies (R): c) Pennsylvania should not accept Affordable Care Act funds. Comments: The long term costs are oppressive and will stifle the ability to provide current services. Again, government is not the provider for people. People should help provide for people out of their own free will. Additionally as we have seen with this act, the government strings attached to receipt of funding may go against one’s moral conviction. This is not a role of governement.
155. Becky Corbin (R): b) Pennsylvania should use the additional federal funds under the Affordable Care Act to allow more people, including the working poor, to access the private insurance market.
160. Stephen Barrar (R): b) Pennsylvania should use the additional federal funds under the Affordable Care Act to allow more people, including the working poor, to access the private insurance market.
161. Joseph Hackett (R): a) Pennsylvania should accept federal funds under the Affordable Care Act and allow more people, including the working poor, to participate in Medicaid.
163. Jamie Santora (R): b) Pennsylvania should use the additional federal funds under the Affordable Care Act to allow more people, including the working poor, to access the private insurance market.
165. Bill Adolph (R): b) Pennsylvania should use the additional federal funds under the Affordable Care Act to allow more people, including the working poor, to access the private insurance market; Comments: I supported legislation last year that would restrict plans from using taxpayer dollars under the Affordable care Act to fund abortions.
168. Tom Killion (R): b) Pennsylvania should use the additional federal funds under the Affordable Care Act to allow more people, including the working poor, to access the private insurance market.
178. Scott Petri (R): b) Pennsylvania should use the additional federal funds under the Affordable Care Act to allow more people, including the working poor, to access the private insurance market. Comments: Caution – the federal government will eventually fail to provide funding to states. This will be another broken promise.
8. What is your position on the death penalty?
18. Gene DiGirolamo (R): Support
53. Dottie Miller (D): No Response; Comments: The Bible says an eye for an eye and the law provides for this measure. I have an issue with this. I understand the need for a family who has lost someone to see that killer put to death but in many cases it doesn’t fill that hole left by the loss of their loved one. I would have to leave this up to the judge and the family. Those on death row sit there for many years and may never make it to the death chamber. Honestly this is something I need to think about more seriously and on a case by case basis.
53. Robert Godshall (R): Support; Comments: Support in the most heinous cases.
61. Kate Harper (R): Support
145. Craig Staats (R): Support
146. Mark Painter (D): Oppose
154. Robert Gillies (R): Support; Comments: The government does have a responsibility to protect its citizens from harm. The death penalty, when the punishment is swift and fair, is a deterrent. However, the current system should be abolished as it is not swift nor a deterrent. If agreements on how to change the system to be an effective deterrent cannot be made, the current system should be abolished and Life imprisonment will be the maximum sentence.
155. Becky Corbin (R): Support
160. Stephen Barrar (R): Support
161. Joseph Hackett (R): No response; Comments: Will discuss
163. Jamie Santora (R): Support
165. Bill Adolph (R): Support
168. Tom Killion (R): Oppose
178. Scott Petri (R): Support; Comments: When imposed by a jury I support for serious crimes.
9. Which statement reflects your position most accurately?
a) Religious childcare and pre-kindergarten providers should be subject to government review of educational content.
b) Religious childcare and pre-kindergarten providers should follow state standards for health and safety of children, but be free to determine their own educational content based on the teachings of their faith tradition.
c) Religious childcare and pre-kindergarten providers should be free from government regulation.
18. Gene DiGirolamo (R): b) Religious childcare and pre-kindergarten providers should follow state standards for healthy and safety of children, but be free to determine their own educational content based on the teachings of their faith tradition.
53. Dottie Miller (D): a) Religious childcare and pre-kindergarten providers should be subject to government review of educational content; Comments: They should be subject to REVIEW but not restricted in religious teaching. As long as the basic curriculum, health and safety concerns are met faith can become a vital part of the teaching that government should not control. The review should assure that children meet the minimum educational needs for that age/grade.
53. Robert Godshall (R): b) Religious childcare and pre-kindergarten providers should follow state standards for healthy and safety of children, but be free to determine their own educational content based on the teachings of their faith tradition.
61. Kate Harper (R): b) Religious childcare and pre-kindergarten providers should follow state standards for healthy and safety of children, but be free to determine their own educational content based on the teachings of their faith tradition.
145. Craig Staats (R): b) Religious childcare and pre-kindergarten providers should follow state standards for healthy and safety of children, but be free to determine their own educational content based on the teachings of their faith tradition.
146. Mark Painter (D): b) Religious childcare and pre-kindergarten providers should follow state standards for healthy and safety of children, but be free to determine their own educational content based on the teachings of their faith tradition.
154. Robert Gillies (R): b) Religious childcare and pre-kindergarten providers should follow state standards for healthy and safety of children, but be free to determine their own educational content based on the teachings of their faith tradition.
155. Becky Corbin (R): b) Religious childcare and pre-kindergarten providers should follow state standards for healthy and safety of children, but be free to determine their own educational content based on the teachings of their faith tradition.
160. Stephen Barrar (R): b) Religious childcare and pre-kindergarten providers should follow state standards for healthy and safety of children, but be free to determine their own educational content based on the teachings of their faith tradition.
161. Joseph Hackett (R): b) Religious childcare and pre-kindergarten providers should follow state standards for healthy and safety of children, but be free to determine their own educational content based on the teachings of their faith tradition.
163. Jamie Santora (R): a) Religious childcare and pre-kindergarten providers should be subject to government review of educational content.
165. Bill Adolph (R): a) Religious childcare and pre-kindergarten providers should be subject to government review of educational content.
168. Tom Killion (R): b) Religious childcare and pre-kindergarten providers should follow state standards for healthy and safety of children, but be free to determine their own educational content based on the teachings of their faith tradition.
178. Scott Petri (R): b) Religious childcare and pre-kindergarten providers should follow state standards for healthy and safety of children, but be free to determine their own educational content based on the teachings of their faith tradition.
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Does anyone else find it troubling that most of the responders were Republican?
I found it troubling how some of them responded. Really Tom McGarrigle? The government should ok what is being taught in a religious nursery school? Wow wow wow.