Natalie Mihalek vs. Chris Todd
Meet the candidates for Pa. House District 40
The Post-Gazette submitted a series of three questions to every candidate running for state office in Western Pennsylvania.
1. Q. Who are you and why are you qualified to run for PA House District 40?
Mihalek: As a small business owner, mother, U.S. Navy veteran and former prosecutor with the Allegheny County District Attorney’s office, I have a broad understanding of government and have worked with local officials to strengthen our region. Now, having served as 40th Legislative District’s House member for four years, I have accrued a knowledge of the legislative process and have worked with colleagues in the House and Senate on passing legislation to improve public safety, support crime victims, fight inflation and strengthen our economy.
Todd: I’m Chris Todd, a husband of 28 years, father of four, and a first-time political candidate. I was born and raised in Bethel Park and I am a current Peters Township resident, so the 40th District is my home. My career path as an engineer, technical salesman, and business leader has helped me to develop important skills like problem-solving, negotiating, relationship building, communication, and strategic thinking that I will be able to effectively utilize as a legislator.
2. Q. Why are you running for PA House District 40?
Mihalek: The 40th Legislative District is where I and thousands of others call home. This is where we open businesses, raise our children or retire. Residents in this area deserve a public servant who understands all of the issues, fights through bureaucracy and above all, represents their interests.
Todd: I have been increasingly frustrated with the direction of our political discourse over the past several years. The recent Dobbs decision was a flashpoint for me because I believe that a woman’s right to choose is a fundamental right that must be protected. Other fundamental rights like equal voting access and marriage equality are also being attacked, so my primary motivation for running for office is to ensure that we have a strong voice for the 40th District to protect fundamental rights for all Pennsylvanians.
3. Q. Why should voters pay attention to this race?
Mihalek: The past few elections have seen candidates focus on a limited number of “bigticket” issues attempting to woo voters into making emotional choices. Those issues are important, but narrowing in only on talking points is an insult to electors, who are being hit with inflation and concerned with the safety of their neighborhoods. Pennsylvania residents should have confidence that their elected officials are as concerned with the everyday, quality-of-life issues as they are with headlinegrabbing topics.
Todd: The attack on fundamental rights from extremists on the right is real and pervasive, so there is great urgency to elect candidates in November who are committed to protecting democracy and preserving fundamental rights.