Brad Roae

Brad Roae is a Republican member of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives, currently serving the 6th legislative district, which encompasses parts of Crawford County. He has been in office since his initial election in 2006, following a campaign that focused on reform and accountability in government. Roae's political career has been marked by his commitment to fiscal conservatism and a hands-on approach to his constituents' needs. He has held various leadership roles within the state legislature, including chairing significant committees that shape policy in Pennsylvania.

Early life and career

Brad Roae was born on April 6, 1967. He pursued higher education at Gannon University, where he completed his studies and graduated in 1990. Following his graduation, Roae began his professional career as a commercial underwriter for Erie Insurance. This role involved assessing risks and determining the appropriate coverage for clients, which provided him with valuable experience in the financial and insurance sectors. To manage his student loan debts effectively, he took on several part-time jobs during this period, demonstrating a strong work ethic and a commitment to financial responsibility.

In addition to his work in the insurance industry, Roae has been actively involved in his community as an emergency medical technician (EMT) and a volunteer firefighter with the East Mead Volunteer Fire Department. His dedication to public service is evident in these roles, where he has contributed to the safety and well-being of his community. This background in emergency services has likely influenced his approach to governance, emphasizing the importance of community support and responsiveness to constituents' needs.

Legislative service

Brad Roae's entry into politics was catalyzed by the 2005 Pennsylvania General Assembly pay raise controversy, which sparked public outrage and calls for reform. Capitalizing on this sentiment, he successfully challenged the long-serving incumbent Teresa Forcier in the Republican primary, positioning himself as a candidate committed to change. Roae's campaign promised to limit his time in office to two terms, a pledge that resonated with voters seeking accountability and a break from the status quo. He subsequently won the general election against Democrat Keith Abbott, marking the beginning of his legislative career.

Upon taking office, Roae was appointed to the newly established Speaker's Commission on Legislative Reform, a body aimed at improving the efficiency and transparency of the Pennsylvania legislature. His involvement in this commission reflects his commitment to addressing the concerns raised by constituents regarding government operations. Throughout his tenure, Roae has maintained a distinctive approach to his role as a legislator. He has opted not to utilize taxpayer-funded mass mailings or public service announcements, which he believes are not in line with his principles of fiscal responsibility and transparency.

Roae has also made a point of rejecting certain perks associated with his position. He initially declined to use a vehicle from the legislature's taxpayer-funded fleet, opted out of the $152 per diem allowance, and did not accept the automatic annual Cost of Living Adjustment that many legislators receive. This approach has garnered attention and has been a defining characteristic of his legislative style. Despite his efforts to minimize expenses, reports indicate that his spending was the lowest among local lawmakers, although he still incurred costs during his time in office.

In the wake of the 2020 Presidential election, Roae was among a group of Pennsylvania House Republicans who called for the withdrawal of certification for presidential electors, despite the absence of evidence supporting claims of electoral fraud. This stance was part of a broader national conversation regarding election integrity, and it highlighted the contentious political climate in the aftermath of the election. Roae's involvement in this issue reflects his alignment with certain factions within the Republican Party, particularly those advocating for a more aggressive stance on election-related matters.

Policy focus and district

As a member of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives, Roae has focused on various policy areas that reflect the interests and needs of his constituents in the 6th district. His leadership roles, particularly as the Republican chair of the State Government Committee and the Commerce Committee, have positioned him at the forefront of legislative discussions on key issues affecting Pennsylvania's economy and governance.

In his capacity as chair of the State Government Committee, Roae has been involved in shaping policies that govern the operations of state agencies and the overall functioning of the state government. This role allows him to influence legislation that impacts the efficiency and effectiveness of government services, which is a critical concern for constituents who rely on these services.

Roae's chairmanship of the Commerce Committee underscores his commitment to fostering a favorable business environment in Pennsylvania. This committee plays a vital role in reviewing legislation related to economic development, business regulations, and commerce-related issues. Through this position, Roae has the opportunity to advocate for policies that support local businesses and promote economic growth in his district and beyond.

In addition to his committee work, Roae's legislative priorities are likely shaped by the unique demographic and economic characteristics of the 6th district. This area, located in Crawford County, encompasses a mix of rural and suburban communities, each with distinct needs and challenges. As a representative, Roae must balance the interests of diverse constituents, addressing issues such as infrastructure, education, healthcare, and public safety.

Overall, Brad Roae's legislative service is characterized by a focus on reform, fiscal responsibility, and community engagement. His background in emergency services and his commitment to public service inform his approach to governance, making him a prominent figure in Pennsylvania's political landscape. As he continues to serve in the Pennsylvania House of Representatives, Roae remains dedicated to representing the interests of his constituents while navigating the complexities of state legislation.