South Central Young Democrats Endorsement
As part of our endorsement process, this candidate has answered our questionnaire. Below are their verbatim answers.
2025
This candidate's campaign was endorsed!
Multi column
Do you pledge to run a campaign that supports the values of the Democratic Party and to support Democratic candidates, where possible, in the 2025 Primary?
Yes
Info
County: Adams
Office: Borough Of Gettysburg Mayor
Incumbent: No
Vote For: 1
What is the most pressing issue facing the office you are running for and what do you plan to do to solve it?
One of my biggest concerns is the oversight and management of the Borough of Gettysburg Police Department. It needs greater transparency, accountability, and professional leadership. When I ran for Mayor three years ago, this was a major part of my platform. Despite multiple efforts to collaborate with the current Mayor to improve the situation, in my opinion, nothing has really changed—and in some ways, it has worsened.
Effective oversight is not just about accountability—it’s about protecting taxpayers. Professionally guided policies reduce legal risks, prevent costly lawsuits, and ensure fair, consistent law enforcement. Prioritizing structured oversight safeguards public funds, builds community trust, and creates a system that serves everyone equitably. This approach delivers the best financial and social outcomes for Gettysburg. At the earliest possible point, I would begin the legal process to turn the oversight of the police over to the seven member citizen elected Borough council.
Please outline two examples of how you are improving your community.
I started the non-profit Gettysburg Community Theater which provides a platform for creative expression, it strengthens community bonds and contributes to Gettysburg’s cultural vibrancy. It serves students from over ten school districts, offering classes and camps in acting, voice, dance, and technical theatre arts, including the Penguin Project, and Miss Teen PA. The presence of such theatres can lead to increased patronage of nearby businesses, contributing to the town’s economic vitality.
Gettysburg Pride, which I started 9 years ago, contributes to the town by promoting inclusivity, supporting the LGBTQ+ community, organizing annual Pride events, and fostering a sense of belonging and unity—while also boosting the local economy through increased tourism, patronage of local businesses, and community engagement.
What would you do in office to benefit and help young people?
I would continue to do all the things that I am passionately doing now, Gettysburg Community Theater, Gettysburg Pride, The Penguin Project, Coming Out Day, Miss PA Teen Pageants etc., but with a broader perspective and greater reach as mayor—especially when it comes to supporting and empowering young people. Serving as mayor would give me more opportunities to uplift youth voices, expand creative and leadership opportunities, and make sure that young people feel valued and included in the future of Gettysburg. I could help connect youth with volunteer roles, mentorship, arts programs, and local government initiatives that reflect their passions and talents.
What is an issue that you are passionate about and why?
Growing up as a gay man in Texas taught me firsthand what it feels like to be excluded, misunderstood, or overlooked—but I was fortunate to have a family who never made me feel that way. Their unconditional love and acceptance gave me the foundation to be myself, and it showed me the power of belonging. That experience shaped my deep, lifelong passion for inclusivity. I believe no one should ever feel left out or unseen, and I work every day to create spaces where people of all backgrounds—especially young people—feel welcomed, supported, and valued. Whether through theater, community events, or advocacy, my goal is to help everyone feel like they’re part of something meaningful, like they’re part of a family.
What is the last book you read or what is your favorite book?
The Inheritance by Matthew Lopez to both questions!
Is there anything else that you would like the Young Democrats to know about you or your campaign?
Gettysburg needs change. It is not easy, nor do people like it. If Gettysburg is going to be around for you, as a vibrant, accepting town, we need to allow progress to happen. I am not running because of my ego—I love this town and can’t sit by and watch its future drift without direction. Our town is changing—demographics are shifting, new generations are coming up, and millions of people visit every year. With that growth comes responsibility, including the need for greater oversight of our police and local systems to ensure they serve everyone fairly and transparently.