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Farmer advocate joins race for 30th District

Best seeks Dem nod for Eichelberger’s seat

Farmer advocate Emily Best is seeking the Democratic nomination for state senator of the 30th District, describing herself as a working mother who understands the needs of everyday citizens.

“I can no longer accept the status quo of today’s dysfunctional politics. Our lives, our health care, our environment and our paychecks are all at stake,” Best said in a press release. “The politicians in Harrisburg are more focused on covering up scandals and staying in power than on doing their jobs and helping their constituents.”

“I know what it’s like to raise a family in this economy, and it’s not easy,” she added. “I will stand up for the folks in this district whose voices haven’t been heard. Being a member of this community is a privilege, and I want to serve. In a democracy, it is our right and responsibility to raise our voice when issues aren’t being addressed.”

Also seeking the 30th District seat on the Republican ticket are state Rep. Judy Ward and attorney Dan Kiss. Current Sen. John H. Eichelberger Jr. is running for Congress.

If elected, Best said she would keep citizens’ concerns in mind and address issues such as lack of affordable health care, the opioid crisis, education and tax burdens.

Best received a master’s degree in environmental policy from American University in 2010 and a bachelor’s degree from University of Pittsburgh in 2006. After completing her studies, she served as a Peace Corps volunteer in West Africa.

Upon her return in 2012, she worked as an apprentice farmer for New Morning Farm in Huntingdon County and began volunteering for the National Young Farmers Coalition. In 2015, Best became the general manager for Tuscarora Organic Growers Cooperative.

Best is a board member for FRESHFARM and a committee member of the Fulton County Democratic Committee.

She currently lives in McConnellsburg with her partner, John, and their son and his two daughters.

Mirror Staff Writer Shen Wu Tan is at 946-7457.

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