Mike Armanini, the Republican candidate vying to represent the 75th Legislative District in the Pennsylvania State House of Representatives, has been working hard to reach his constituents during 2020, all while balancing communication and COVID-19 precautions.
Armanini hopes to take over for Rep. Matt Gabler, R-DuBois, who is not seeking re-election this year.
As the election edges closer, Armanini’s campaign is going well, he explained via email.
“We are continuing to move at full sail. I am pleased to have received endorsements from the NRA, PA Pro Life, PA Chamber of Business & Industry and F.O.A.C.,” he said. “In achieving these endorsements it speaks volume to my commitment to the protection of the 2nd Amendment, Pro Life and our economic structure throughout the 75th District.”
Armanini noted that the biggest challenge to campaigning efforts occurred in the spring, when Pennsylvania was required to come to a halt in an effort to slow the spread of the coronavirus. Since those restrictions began to lift, Armanini noted he has been able to campaign in a normal manner, while taking precautions provided to protect from COVID-19.
Armanini explained he is using all possible avenues to reach voters, including phone calls, knocking on doors, advertisements and mailings.
“I have had a tremendous amount of help from the GOP headquarters located in Clearfield, DuBois and St. Marys as the people who ‘run the show’ at these locations are absolutely the best,” Armanini said. “They have helped in so many ways from the picnics, voter registration events, having my materials available for constituents who request them. I have been able to reach so many people due to their efforts.”
Armanini noted that another help to his campaign efforts thus far has been the variety of opportunities to attend local events in support of President Trump. Armanini reported that Trump’s staff in our area is “also remarkable,” and that Armanini has been able to participate in Bike Rallies, Women for Trump events, and many others that enabled him to reach people.
“I also participated on the 25/75 Bus Run, which was myself, Congressman GT Thompson, Representative and Senate candidate Cris Dush, Heather Heidelbaugh candidate for Attorney General, Stacy Garrity candidate for Treasurer and Tim Defoor candidate for Auditor General,” Armanini said. “We toured throughout this area and we were able to connect with many people.”
When it comes to concerns and issues at the forefront of voter concerns, Armanini noted he’s hearing a few things on a regular basis.
“I would have to say the disappointment in Governor Wolf’s administration in regards to the handling of COVID — mainly the $5 Billion lost in revenues that will be shortcomings for our state,” Armanini said. He also noted that there is a clear opposition of the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI), which would have an impact on the 75th District. Another important issue to those who will head to the polls in November is the need for increased access to rural broadband.
“I agree with the public on these issues, as they are also on the top of my list,” Armanini said.
Armanini will continue to be present at scheduled events that are being planned through the GOP during the month of October. He is also set to appear at a 2nd Amendment Rally that will take place Oct. 17 in Ridgway and to speak at the Elk County GOP banquet on Oct. 30.
