Hi there --
Big fact: If Dems are going to create long-lasting structural change in 2020, we have to elect smart progressive leaders to state and local office. Enter Run for Something. This year, we’ve already endorsed 130 first-time and second-time down ballot candidates, ready to shake up the status quo and usher in bold reforms at the local level. All year, we’re offering a closer look at some of our most prolific candidates in our new Candidate Spotlight Series.
This week's candidate is Brittany Forman, a candidate running for the Pennsylvania State House of Representatives in district 168! Brittany is a military spouse, a mother of two, and a director at Econsult Solutions, Inc — an economic consulting firm in Philadelphia. Take a minute to read our chat with Brittany, then chip in to help us find and support candidates like her.
Thanks!
Run for Something
Hi Brittany! So tell us, what inspired you to run for office?
With the craziness at the federal level, I strongly feel that it’s important to have a level of government (state government) that is there to protect and actually work for Pennsylvania families. So in a way, I suppose, I can credit He-who-must-not-be-named in the White House, for pushing me to action!
What issue is most pressing in your community and how do you plan on remedying it?
The 168th District is full of prosperous communities, however, they are growing and evolving — and going through growing pains. From a town center popping up in Newtown Square, development at Granite Run, traffic along Rt.1, to keeping State Street vibrant in Media — we need to balance development with open space and green space. Community development must first be based on locals goals. However, there is a role for the state to play in terms of grants, technical assistance, and the regulatory environment. I look forward to being an effective partner to the local municipalities in the 168th District — and fighting for the tools and resources we need.
As you’ve been meeting with voters in your community, what is something that you’ve learned?
People are ready for change! Democrats AND Republicans out in my area are looking for new leadership that is authentic, accountable, responsible, and caring.
What’s surprised you the most about being a candidate?
The constant distractions on a campaign that pull your attention away from voters, volunteers, and donors. It’s easy to get caught up in the meetings, external events, social media happenings. But at the end of the day — it’s about spreading your message, listening and connecting with voters, and getting them to the polls.
If you could change one thing in politics today what would it be?
Less rhetoric, more action. There’s lots of talk and most of it is focused on wedge issues that are designed to divide us. If I could change anything in politics, it would be to cancel out the noise and to lift up the people, policies, and messages that are building coalitions to get positive work done in our communities.
On a lighter note, what song keeps you energized while canvassing?
HAHA. I actually don’t listen to music while canvassing. But I do love talking to my volunteers and staff while in between doors.
What is one takeaway you’d like to leave your constituents with?
There are many many issues that I care about — but what I want to leave you with is a sense of who I am. What’s most important are the values that drive me today. I believe in 1) the importance of hard work, 2) remembering and caring for others, and 3) a faith and hope that tomorrow can be better. These values will guide my work as your State Representative. I promise to work hard to represent the needs of my constituents. I promise to fight for those who are not at the table. I promise to build a coalition that will advocate for families and communities — so that we can leave this place better than how we found it.
Final Question: What would you say to someone who is thinking about running for office?
Do it! We need passionate people to get involved in public service. Attend candidate trainings, get your support network behind you — and run!
