Perry Stambaugh

Perry Stambaugh is a Republican member of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives, representing District 86. He has been serving in this capacity since he was elected following the 2020 Pennsylvania House of Representatives election. Stambaugh has a background in agriculture and rural affairs, which informs his legislative priorities and policy focus. He is known for his advocacy of various reforms aimed at improving the lives of residents in rural Pennsylvania, particularly in areas such as education funding and infrastructure development.

Early life and career

Perry Stambaugh was born on March 8, 1960. He pursued higher education at Penn State University, where he obtained a degree that would later support his professional endeavors. After completing his education, Stambaugh embarked on a nearly 40-year career in journalism, specifically focusing on rural and agricultural topics. His work has spanned local, statewide, and national levels, allowing him to gain a comprehensive understanding of the issues facing rural communities.

Stambaugh's career in journalism included significant roles with several notable publications. He worked with the former Pennsylvania Farmer magazine, which has since been rebranded as American Agriculturist. This publication has a long history of addressing the needs and concerns of farmers and agricultural stakeholders in Pennsylvania. Additionally, he contributed to Penn Lines magazine, which is published by the Pennsylvania Rural Electric Association. This magazine serves as a vital source of information for rural electric cooperative members, focusing on energy issues and rural development. Stambaugh also wrote for RE Magazine, produced by the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association, which addresses broader issues related to rural electrification and cooperative governance.

Through his extensive experience in agricultural journalism, Stambaugh developed a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities present in rural Pennsylvania. His background in this field has likely informed his legislative priorities, as he has consistently advocated for policies that support rural communities. Stambaugh's career in journalism not only provided him with a platform to discuss agricultural issues but also equipped him with the skills necessary for effective communication and advocacy in the political arena.

In addition to his professional career, Stambaugh operates a family farm in Green Park, located in Perry County, Pennsylvania. This hands-on experience in agriculture further solidifies his connection to the rural community and informs his legislative agenda. By managing a farm, Stambaugh has firsthand knowledge of the challenges faced by farmers, including economic pressures, regulatory hurdles, and the need for infrastructure improvements. This practical experience enhances his credibility as a representative for his constituents in District 86.

Legislative service

Perry Stambaugh was elected to the Pennsylvania House of Representatives in the 2020 election, marking the beginning of his legislative career. Since taking office, he has been actively involved in various legislative initiatives and has taken on significant roles within the House. Stambaugh's service in the legislature includes membership on several key committees, which play a crucial role in shaping policy and legislation in Pennsylvania.

During the 2025-26 legislative session, Stambaugh serves on the House Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Energy, Finance, and Transportation committees. His involvement in these committees reflects his commitment to addressing issues that are particularly relevant to his constituents and the broader Pennsylvania community. As a member of the Agriculture and Rural Affairs Committee, Stambaugh is positioned to influence legislation that impacts the agricultural sector, rural development, and the quality of life for residents in rural areas.

In addition to his committee assignments, Stambaugh holds leadership positions within the House. He serves as the Republican vice chairman of the Energy Committee, where he plays a role in shaping energy policy and addressing the needs of rural communities regarding energy access and sustainability. His leadership in this capacity allows him to advocate for policies that promote energy efficiency and the development of renewable energy sources, which are increasingly important in the context of climate change and energy independence.

Furthermore, Stambaugh is the Republican chairman of the Transportation Subcommittee on Public Transportation. This role enables him to focus on issues related to transportation infrastructure, which is vital for economic development and accessibility in rural areas. Improved transportation options can enhance access to jobs, education, and healthcare for residents in his district, making this a critical area of focus for his legislative efforts.

Stambaugh is also recognized as a founding member of the Pennsylvania Freedom Caucus, a group of conservative lawmakers within the Pennsylvania legislature. This caucus aims to promote limited government, fiscal responsibility, and individual liberties. Stambaugh's involvement in this group underscores his commitment to conservative principles and his desire to advocate for policies that align with these values.

Policy focus and district

As a member of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives, Perry Stambaugh has prioritized several key policy areas that reflect the needs and interests of his constituents in District 86. One of his primary focuses is on improving access to high-speed internet in rural areas. Recognizing the importance of connectivity for education, business, and overall quality of life, Stambaugh supports measures aimed at expanding broadband infrastructure. This initiative is particularly relevant in the context of the increasing reliance on digital technology for work and education, especially highlighted during the COVID-19 pandemic.

In addition to internet access, Stambaugh advocates for state constitutional reforms. He supports the idea of electing state appellate judges on a district basis rather than statewide, which he believes could lead to a more representative and accountable judiciary. This proposal reflects a broader trend in some states to reconsider how judicial elections are conducted, aiming to enhance local representation in the judicial system.

Another significant aspect of Stambaugh's policy focus is the elimination of property taxes as a means of funding public schools. He argues that this reform would alleviate financial burdens on property owners and create a more equitable funding system for education. This issue resonates with many constituents who are concerned about the rising costs associated with property taxes and their impact on homeownership and community stability.

Stambaugh also supports the implementation of term limits for state legislators and congressional representatives. He believes that term limits can promote fresh ideas and prevent the entrenchment of political power, thereby enhancing democratic accountability. This perspective aligns with a growing movement among some voters who seek to reform the political system to ensure that elected officials remain responsive to their constituents.

Overall, Perry Stambaugh's legislative service is characterized by a commitment to addressing the unique challenges faced by rural communities in Pennsylvania. His background in agriculture and journalism, combined with his active involvement in key legislative committees, positions him as a representative who is deeply engaged with the needs of his district. Through his policy initiatives and advocacy efforts, Stambaugh aims to improve the quality of life for residents in District 86 and promote sustainable development in rural Pennsylvania.