Pennsylvania House of Representatives District 29 candidate surveys, 2022

Elections in Pennsylvania, 2022

---

On the ballot: U.S. Senate • U.S. House • Governor • State executive offices • State Senate • State House • Special state legislative • Local ballot measures • Municipal

This article shows responses from candidates in the 2022 election for Pennsylvania House of Representatives District 29 who completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey.

• Click here to see candidates and election results.
• Click here to see Candidate Connection survey responses.

Candidates and election results

General election

General election for Pennsylvania House of Representatives District 29

Tim Brennan defeated Diane Smith and Rob Ronky in the general election for Pennsylvania House of Representatives District 29 on November 8, 2022.

		Candidate	%	Votes
✔		Tim Brennan (D)	55.9	21,345
		Diane Smith (R)	40.9	15,601
		Rob Ronky (Independent)	3.3	1,243

---

	There were no incumbents in this race. The results have been certified. Source	Total votes: 38,189
= candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.
If you are a candidate and would like to tell readers and voters more about why they should vote for you, complete the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection Survey.
Do you want a spreadsheet of this type of data? Contact our sales team.

Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey responses

Ballotpedia asks all federal, state, and local candidates to complete a survey and share what motivates them on political and personal levels. The section below shows responses from candidates in this race who completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey. Candidates are asked three required questions for this survey, but they may answer additional optional questions as well.

Survey responses from candidates in this race

Click on a candidate's name to visit their Ballotpedia page.

Note: Ballotpedia reserves the right to edit Candidate Connection survey responses. Any edits made by Ballotpedia will be clearly marked with [brackets] for the public. If the candidate disagrees with an edit, he or she may request the full removal of the survey response from Ballotpedia.org. Ballotpedia does not edit or correct typographical errors unless the candidate's campaign requests it.

Expand all | Collapse all

Please list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office?

Tim Brennan (D)

I would prioritize supporting middle class families, by providing better education opportunities and healthcare, by protecting the right for women to make decisions about starting a family, by fighting for a fair economy that supports main street priorities and by creating more supports for working people.

I would prioritize protecting our democracy by creating more access to voting, by ensuring each vote is counted and by making it easier for local election boards to do their work. We also need to take steps to protect and improve our democracy, by supporting the arts and non-profit news sources, investing in school civics and fight for government reform.

I would prioritize improving the quality of Justice for all residents because a truly Just society requires the fair and equal participation of all people. I would do it by fighting to level the playing field for all of our residents regardless of their nation of original, gender, disability, sexual orientation, race or religion.

Rob Ronky (Independent)

I will strive to make Harrisburg work for the people. No more my way or the highway. Let's meet in the middle.

I would like to see schools and parents get along. I support all day kindergarten and earlier second language classes

I support term limits of 12 years. No more career politicians. They got us here. Hopefully rookies can get us out.

Diane Smith (R)

The constituents in this district are bearing the weight of soaring inflation, rising gas and food prices, and an economy that isn't working for everyone. Many people are struggling daily and I believe that we must pursue policies that will alleviate these hardships and in turn lead to a better economy, growing wages, expanded access to affordable healthcare, and drive down the cost of living for this beautiful community we are live in.

I will work hard to support small businesses and farmers in the district, protect your hard earned tax dollars, improve our local infrastructure and foster greater educational opportunities including trade schools.

I am committed to working hard for the 29th District! I will accountable, accessible and approachable and I will exceed expectations! YOU HAVE MY PROIMISE!!

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

Tim Brennan (D)

I am interested in improving education opportunities, investing in infrastructure and improving the dialogue in Harrisburg.

Our legislature has failed to fund public education or address structural deficits, while subsidizing shale and big business at the expense of our kids, targeted tax relief and early childhood education. These are not Main Street priorities. As a former community college professor, I know futures are at stake due to the priorities in Harrisburg. Sound policies there will also mean less dependence on property taxes at home.

Also, our roads, bridges and infrastructure have not been a priority for years. We must invest in our infrastructure and green energy; it will create good paying jobs now and reduce dependence on foreign oil. We rank near last nationally in many infrastructure categories. However, after receiving billions in federal COVID aid, our legislature placed funds in a rainy-day fund. We need to invest now in job creating infrastructure, smart-energy and a 21st century economy.

Finally, we need to improve the dialogue in Harrisburg. For Democrats and Republicans to work together, we need more patience and understanding. Government is about process, not expediency. The process matters; I told my 13 year-old many times that– “I don’t care what you do, it’s how you do it.” Interacting with each other with character and understanding is rare these days in politics, but is absolutely necessary for a strong and functioning democracy.

Rob Ronky (Independent)

I would vote to keep Pa pro choice. I believe as parents we can do better teaching our children about choices they make. Take the time to explain how babies are made. Teach them ways to be safe. Teach them they can talk to us about how some actions may change their lives. That applies to adults also. Better decision making goes along way. Education is also a point we need too work on. Our children are our future. They need us to be adults in times like this.

Diane Smith (R)

Our economic policies that includes taxes, protecting our environment and preserving open space and the quality of our lives, small businesses/farmers and our infrastructure (both road/bridges and utility).

Who do you look up to? Whose example would you like to follow, and why?

Tim Brennan (D)

I always looked up to my dad, who taught by example. He had a few catch phrases, like "treat the little person like a king and the big person like anyone else" and "people, are people, are people, are people." I always appreciated Henry David Thoreau on principle, simplicity and self determination.

Rob Ronky (Independent)

I don't look up to athletes or movie stars. Can't say that any modern politicians would be roll models either. would say my mother and wife. My mother was a single parent raising a rambunctious child. She had worked 2 jobs trying to keep me clothed and housed. It was a little harder in the 80's. with the stigma of being a divorced female. Also my wife. She is homeschooling our child. It's not easy stuck at home with your only contact being a child. She's able to keep it together and teach our daughter several languages. I'd like to do the best job i can. trying to get people to come back together again. A compromise. level heads with no ego involved.

Is there a book, essay, film, or something else you would recommend to someone who wants to understand your political philosophy?

Tim Brennan (D)

N/A

What characteristics or principles are most important for an elected official?

Tim Brennan (D)

There is a quote that I often references for what it takes to be a good leader, I think this appropriately sums up my feelings on this topic - “[s]marts are a dime a dozen . . . [i]t’s wisdom, coupled with humanity that counts.” I think the empathy, discretion and thoughtful problem solving are some of the most important characteristics.

Rob Ronky (Independent)

We need officials that can come up with a compromise. People that keep their ego in check.

What qualities do you possess that you believe would make you a successful officeholder?

Rob Ronky (Independent)

I can work with anybody. With my help. We can do better. Build a better cleaner and more productive Bucks County. I have worked for the same corporation for 30 years. That shows loyalty and dedication. like to have fun and love my family

Diane Smith (R)

I am a strong woman, I will be a breath of fresh air in this political arena, I am impeccable with my word, I am honesty, I am a hard worker, I will be accessible, accountable and approachable and I have 10+ years of legislative experience. My husband and I are not from money, we go married 39 years ago, raised three adult children and we worked hard to get what we have, yes we may have stumbled once or twice but doesn't everyone? I have what it takes to represent the 29th district both here and in Harrisburg and I will make this district proud!

What do you believe are the core responsibilities for someone elected to this office?

Tim Brennan (D)

Constituent services is always the central responsibility of a legislative office, followed by communications and policy design.

Rob Ronky (Independent)

Listening to the people. Helping locals that are in a jam with other branches of the government. A go between for state and local.

What legacy would you like to leave?

Rob Ronky (Independent)

As long as my daughter can say "I loved my dad or he taught me how to do this" That's the only legacy I care about.

What is the first historical event that happened in your lifetime that you remember? How old were you at the time?

Tim Brennan (D)

I remember the Challenger Explosion. I was 9 years old.

Rob Ronky (Independent)

I vaguely remember the splashdown of Apollo 17. Watching it return to earth. with my grandmother. She was so mad that it had interrupted her soap opera ( Guiding light) Watergate is another thing that is vague also. The end of Vietnam. All these things are a little vague in memory. even the bicentennial. The first thing that really is clear would be President Regan and James Brady getting shot. I was in the 6th grade. Mr. Jadico's class. They had announces it over the loudspeaker in Pine Run elementary school.

What was your very first job? How long did you have it?

Tim Brennan (D)

I grew up working in my parents mom and pop restaurant as a server. I worked that job most of my life, even at time in law school.

Rob Ronky (Independent)

My first job was working for an antique dealer. One summer during junior high. I wanted some spending money. I had wanted a new bicycle. My mother was a single mother and could not afford one. She was able to get me a summer job with one of her friends. He was starting a business importing antiques from around the world. At the time i was helping him mostly with deliveries. That lasted about 2 summers. A few ears after high school i returned to a company that was growing by leaps and bounds. From furniture to art and then garden sculptor. Every year brought on a new task. More clients and an ever growing region. That first job has encompassed 40 years. It has taught a lot about handling problems. How to find the best solutions

What was the last song that got stuck in your head?

Rob Ronky (Independent)

My head is a fight between rock and country. If there is one that touches me it is Tim McGraws. " don't Take the Girl". That was the first song i heard on the way home from my daughter's birth. I had left the hospital to get a few things for my wife. as i started my car. It came on the radio.

For the last week it has been Sublime's Santeria. I just put it on to finish this survey.

It's fun to watch my daughter sing Rose tattoo by Dropkick Murphys Rose Tattoo. People need to listen to more music. Turn the talk shows off and rock out.

What do you believe is the ideal relationship between the governor and state legislature?

Tim Brennan (D)

I have always considered the legislature as a check on and oversight body for the executive branch.

Rob Ronky (Independent)

He should be there to help show the legislature where the need to trim BS from. He should not be there to push party lines. By the time something hits that desk. It should be near perfect. With the governor saying very little if anything. At times he may need to say " I think this is not legal. Can we research it" Or can the legislature work on this for the folks of PA.? At no time should this become a group of ego driven people. sadly it has. A group of lawmakers out to push their lopsided agendas.

What do you perceive to be your state's greatest challenges over the next decade?

Tim Brennan (D)

Dealing with our crumbling infrastructure, our lack of investment in education and providing good quality jobs for more people. We also need to do more to restore confidence in the democratic process and encourage civics in our next generation of citizens.

Rob Ronky (Independent)

Several things come to mind. One would be the state of disrepair our roads are in. Many of our concrete bridges look like they will fall into the creek. Our roads are filled with more chuck holes than a cow pasture. In one word INFRASTRUCTURE. I believe the selling of Bucks county's sewer system will be a failure.

Our education system is going down a dark bath. After two years of covid. Kids seem to be a nightmare. For what ever reason you want to sight. Kids are 2 years behind. We need to get past our differences and help educate our future.

Keeping PA clean will be hard. We have a choice to make on fracking. Should we or not. We have people searching for clean energy. How about we use less. Turn off the extra light. Don't sit in your car letting it idle. turn the engine off when your in a parking lot. f you're hot or cold. walk into the store. We can all do better at how we save energy. Clean air is important

What are the benefits and drawbacks of a unicameral state legislature, in your opinion?

Tim Brennan (D)

N/A

Rob Ronky (Independent)

It's very possible a unicameral legislature would get rid of some dead weight in government. It appears we have only one state that uses it. Nebraska. Do things get accomplished in Nebraska? I think so. A quick look into wiki says " most cities are run this way. As far at it goes this is not something i have ever thought of until tonight.

Do you believe that it’s beneficial for state legislators to have previous experience in government or politics?

Tim Brennan (D)

I believe it can help reduce the learning curve and make legislators more effective earlier. In my case, I was certified in law and government, focusing on legislation drafting and the state constitution. I also spent over a decade representing local government, that led to exposure to numerous issues. Additionally, my time on Borough Council also helped see areas that needed improvement by the legislature.

Rob Ronky (Independent)

No. I don't believe they need to be lawyers either. People want to say " Yes you need experience. it helps get things done" Remember they were rookies at one time also. I think it only helps them cheat the system. 95 percent of the people out there know right from wrong. You don't need political experience to teach you that. As for politicians being lawyers we don't need that. You don't need a lawyer to tell you "right from wrong" You need a lawyer to convince people your wrong was right. If you're able to make good decisions and meet people in the middle you'll get things done.

Do you believe it’s beneficial to build relationships with other legislators? Please explain your answer.

Tim Brennan (D)

Absolutely, this is the best way to get things done. It is important that these relationships be on both sides of the isle as well.

Rob Ronky (Independent)

Yes. You need to work with everybody in office. Nothing will get accomplished if you can't work with others. You will need support in introducing a bill. If you talk nasty or put others down for their thoughts. You will never receive help. Many in office need to learn how to compromise.

What process do you favor for redistricting?

Tim Brennan (D)

As noted, I previously worked on redistricting reform and drafted a proposed amendment to the Pennsylvania Constitution and lobbied it. Partisan Gerrymandering is a flaw in our democratic process and needs to be addressed. I would favor an independent commission, with neutral criteria.

Rob Ronky (Independent)

I find it strange that both parties have cried over redistricting. I can see how some would feel it benefits the other. I favor leaving things the way the are. stop moving boarders. If it needs to be done. It might be best to keep school districts in one legislative district. As an independent

If you are not a current legislator, are there certain committees that you would want to be a part of?

Tim Brennan (D)

Local Government, Transportation, Finance

Rob Ronky (Independent)

Yes. Motor carrier safety committee. Education committee. Water advisory committee.

Our public schools need help. would like to see PA. have all day kindergarten. Along with teaching a second language earlier. most schools in pa start in 8th grade. That's too late. Kids also need to be safe and feel safe in schools.

Motor carriers are having a hard time making a living. Tolls are high. Diesel fuel tax is high (74 cents a gallon to PA.)

PA schools need to do a better job of educating kids. My daughter has attended several different schools. Public brick and mortar was the least educating for her. I know we can do better. We can do better without throwing billions at it.

Water advisory. Pesticides, fertilizer, chemicals erosion and our roadways are causing problems. We need water to live. If we can keep our waterways clean. We can stop using bottled water. This will help cut down on plastics in our landfills. Clean water in a necessity of life. We can do better

If you are a current legislator, what appealed to you about your current committees?

Tim Brennan (D)

N/A

Is there a particular legislator, past or present, whom you want to model yourself after?

Tim Brennan (D)

N/A

Rob Ronky (Independent)

No i want to be myself. I want to do better than the others. We can all do better.

Are you interested in running for a different political office (for example, the U.S. Congress or governor) in the future?

Tim Brennan (D)

I do not have any plans for that.

Rob Ronky (Independent)

No a handful of terms as a state rep will do. I'm not here to step on peoples toes to get ahead. I'm here to build a better, cleaner and more productive Bucks county.

Both sitting legislators and candidates for office hear many personal stories from the residents of their district. Is there a story that you’ve heard that you found particularly touching, memorable, or impactful?

Tim Brennan (D)

It is strange, but I remember conversations knocking on doors for sometimes years later. I think about the people in the houses when I drive in the neighborhood. When I was a young person, I interned with a Congressional office and I remember a family who lost their daughter during a rafting accident. I remember speaking with them and the emotion while they were trying to recover her trapped body. I also remember the lengths the Congressperson went and the bipartisan manner that he acted to get the family results and some closure.

Rob Ronky (Independent)

I had a same a same sex couple tell me their struggles with healthcare and their wills. It's sad that some people can build a life of assets and dreams. Only to not get survivor rights to their own things. The government will tax them to death. Their health insurance had tried to Weasel out of everything they promised. (Not all that unusual for an insurance company). I'll leave out most of the story. I don't know if they want me telling the world. Bottom line is. No one in the insurance company treated them nice. It's time we all get over ourselves

Should the legislature oversee or grant the use of emergency powers?

Tim Brennan (D)

No, they should not administer emergency powers, they should be oversight after the fact. Emergency powers should be left to the executive.

Rob Ronky (Independent)

Yes. If a Governor wants to declare an emergency before a storm that's fine. If they want their emergency to extend more than X amount of days. It should be voted on.

Do you believe that compromise is necessary or desirable for policymaking?

Tim Brennan (D)

As I said in my priorities section, I think the process matters. We should work within democratic norms, engage each other and make our fundamental positions know. To many elected official have been willing to harm the process, democratic norms and people's faith in democratic systems to get short term political benefits. I do believe that we have to work harder to see and respect each other and that compromise is often the more healthy avenue to move policy forward together.

Rob Ronky (Independent)

Compromise is one of the most important things in policymaking. We can no longer have it my way or the highway. Candidates and constituents need to realize . It can not be one sided. Nothing can be 100 percent your way. We need to meet in the middle. It feels as if we have not had compromise for about 14 years now. Each party trying to out score the other. With a common goal of destroying the other. It can't keep going. It will result in the American people losing. I feel that i will be able to bring both back together.

See also

More about these elections:

• Pennsylvania House of Representatives elections, 2022

Select a district below to read responses from candidates in those races:

District 1District 2District 3District 4District 5District 6District 7District 8District 9District 10District 11District 12District 13District 14District 15District 16District 17District 18District 19District 20District 21District 22District 23District 24District 25District 26District 27District 28District 29District 30District 31District 32District 33District 34District 35District 36District 37District 38District 39District 40District 41District 42District 43District 44District 45District 46District 47District 48District 49District 50District 51District 52District 53District 54District 55District 56District 57District 58District 59District 60District 61District 62District 63District 64District 65District 66District 67District 68District 69District 70District 71District 72District 73District 74District 75District 76District 77District 78District 79District 80District 81District 82District 83District 84District 85District 86District 87District 88District 89District 90District 91District 92District 93District 94District 95District 96District 97District 98District 99District 100District 101District 102District 103District 104District 105District 106District 107District 108District 109District 110District 111District 112District 113District 114District 115District 116District 117District 118District 119District 120District 121District 122District 123District 124District 125District 126District 127District 128District 129District 130District 131District 132District 133District 134District 135District 136District 137District 138District 139District 140District 141District 142District 143District 144District 145District 146District 147District 148District 149District 150District 151District 152District 153District 154District 155District 156District 157District 158District 159District 160District 161District 162District 163District 164District 165District 166District 167District 168District 169District 170District 171District 172District 173District 174District 175District 176District 177District 178District 179District 180District 181District 182District 183District 184District 185District 186District 187District 188District 189District 190District 191District 192District 193District 194District 195District 196District 197District 198District 199District 200District 201District 202District 203Submit