Tommy Sankey

Thomas R. Sankey III is a former Republican member of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives, having served from 2012 until 2022. He represented the 73rd District after redistricting, following an initial term representing the 74th District. Throughout his legislative career, Sankey was known for his strong advocacy for the energy sector, particularly coal and gas, and his opposition to various initiatives proposed by the Democratic administration. His political actions included signing articles of impeachment against the governor and supporting efforts to contest the results of the 2020 presidential election in Pennsylvania.

Early life and career

Tommy Sankey was born on September 21, 1980. He grew up in the Clearfield Area School District, where he was actively involved in sports, notably playing on the Clearfield High School football team that achieved an undefeated season in 1998. Following his high school education, Sankey pursued higher education at St. Francis University, where he earned a bachelor's degree in accounting. His early career included work as an accountant, after which he returned to his family's business, R&G Fabrication, where he contributed to the family enterprise.

Sankey's background in accounting and business likely informed his later legislative priorities, particularly in fiscal matters. His early experiences in sports and teamwork may have also influenced his approach to collaboration and leadership within the political arena.

Legislative service

Sankey's political career began with his candidacy for the Pennsylvania House of Representatives in 2012, when he sought to fill the seat vacated by long-serving Democratic representative Bud George. In a significant electoral victory, Sankey won the election against Democratic nominee Mark McCracken, marking a pivotal moment as it was the first time the district was held by a Republican since 1975. This election was characterized by a competitive margin, making it one of his closest races.

Following his initial term, Sankey faced a formal challenge only once during his tenure, in the 2016 election. He successfully secured reelection with a substantial margin against his opponent, Fred Weaver, and ran unopposed in subsequent elections in 2014, 2018, and 2020. His ability to maintain a strong electoral presence in his district reflects his political strategy and the support he garnered from constituents.

During his time in office, Sankey was known for his opposition to various green energy initiatives proposed by the administration of Governor Tom Wolf. He was vocal in his criticism of the governor, particularly during the budget proposal process in 2016, where he accused the administration of partisan rhetoric. His stance on energy issues was consistent with his broader advocacy for the coal and gas sectors, which he viewed as vital to the state's economy.

Sankey's legislative actions included signing articles of impeachment against Governor Wolf in both June 2020 and February 2021. These articles were related to the governor's handling of the COVID-19 pandemic and his emergency declarations, with Sankey and other Republican lawmakers alleging overreach and a circumvention of the legislative branch. However, both impeachment efforts did not progress beyond the Republican-controlled judiciary committee.

In addition to his impeachment efforts, Sankey was an advocate for fiscal conservatism, promoting a balanced budget and opposing tax increases. He supported the elimination of the inheritance tax, framing it as an unjust burden on families. His legislative priorities were reflected in his endorsements and ratings from various organizations, including receiving support from the NRA Political Victory Fund and a 0% rating from Planned Parenthood.

Sankey's political activities extended beyond state issues; he was a supporter of President Donald Trump's administration and participated in efforts to contest the 2020 presidential election results in Pennsylvania. This included signing a motion urging the Pennsylvania Commonwealth Court to void the election results, aligning with a broader narrative promoted by the Trump administration regarding alleged electoral fraud. Despite these efforts, numerous lawsuits alleging fraud were dismissed by voting experts and government agencies, which found no evidence of widespread fraud.

In the 2022 Pennsylvania Senate election, Sankey endorsed Jeff Bartos, further demonstrating his continued involvement in state politics even as he announced that he would not seek reelection. His decision to step back from electoral politics came at the beginning of February 2022, paving the way for attorney Dallas Kephart to succeed him.

Policy focus and district

Throughout his legislative career, Sankey's policy focus was heavily influenced by his background in accounting and his connections to the local economy, particularly in the energy sector. He was a vocal advocate for coal and gas industries, which he believed were essential to Pennsylvania's economic stability and growth. His commitment to these sectors was reflected in the significant campaign contributions he received from energy-related organizations, amounting to over $5.5 million throughout his five campaigns.

In addition to his focus on energy, Sankey was involved in various committees during his tenure, including the Consumer Affairs Committee and the Subcommittee on Public Utilities. He also served on the Environmental Resources & Energy Subcommittee, which aligned with his advocacy for the energy sector. His leadership roles included being appointed as Deputy Chairman of the House Majority Policy Committee in 2019 and later as Deputy Whip in 2020.

Sankey's district, the 73rd District, underwent changes due to redistricting during his time in office. Initially representing the 74th District, he transitioned to the 73rd District in 2015, which may have influenced his legislative priorities and the issues he championed. His political career was marked by a consistent alignment with Republican values, particularly in fiscal conservatism and energy policy, which resonated with his constituents.

In summary, Tommy Sankey's legislative career was characterized by a strong focus on energy issues, fiscal conservatism, and a commitment to Republican principles. His tenure in the Pennsylvania House of Representatives reflected both the challenges and opportunities of representing a district with evolving political dynamics.