Jim Edwards - Candidate for PA State House

In this episode of The Right Side of the Rivers, Eileen Cunningham fills in for Todd McCollum. She and Russell Dryer welcome Jim Edwards, Republican candidate for Pennsylvania’s 35th House District.

A lifelong resident of the Mon Valley, Jim discusses growing up in North Braddock, his ties to Homestead and Munhall, and his decades of military service in the U.S. Air Force and Army. As he prepares to retire as a lieutenant colonel, Jim explains why he sees running for office as another opportunity to serve his community.

The conversation dives into Jim’s campaign priorities, including property-tax relief for seniors, lowering Pennsylvania’s fuel taxes, reducing regulations on small businesses, expanding the local tax base, creating jobs, and revitalizing communities throughout the Mon Valley. Jim also talks about what he is hearing while knocking on doors and his efforts to connect with Republican, Democratic, and independent voters across the district.

The group discusses the importance of the U.S. Steel–Nippon Steel deal, its impact on union jobs and businesses throughout the region, and the need to attract new investment to communities that have experienced decades of economic decline. They also examine public safety, police staffing, prosecution, affordable housing, conditions at Mon View Heights, property taxes, inheritance taxes, and Allegheny County’s continued population loss.

Later, the conversation turns to the redevelopment of Homestead and The Waterfront as an example of what economic growth can look like in the Mon Valley, along with the importance of grassroots organizing, voter registration, door knocking, and rebuilding Republican infrastructure in traditionally Democratic communities.

Plus, Jim shares how listeners can connect with his campaign as he works to become the first Republican to represent the 35th House District.

• James Edwards for PA House District 35 — Learn more about Jim. Find out about campaign events and community outreach initiatives. Support Jim's campaign by volunteering or donating.
• James Edwards Fundraiser Spaghetti Dinner & Silent Auction — Join Jim Edwards for a spaghetti dinner fundraiser on September 26th!
• Celebrate 250 with RCAC — Join the Republican Committee of Allegheny County for a fun celebration marking 250 years of America's freedom and amazing moments along the way with RCAC Family and Friends!