With the race for the PA-16 Senate seat heating up, you should know whether local candidates would support the transit you need in Bucks and Lehigh Counties. Transit for All PA reached out to the candidates, Democrat Mark Pinsley and Republican Jarrett Coleman, to see where they stand.
As a 501c3, Transit for All PA cannot endorse any candidates, but it can ask candidates where they stand on transit—and share the answers with you. Below are Pinsley and Coleman’s responses.
Italicized text indicates a direct quote from the candidate.
Personal Connection to Transit
Where and/or when have you ridden public transportation (fixed-route, on-demand, or shared-ride/paratransit) in your district? Why is public transportation an important public good for your constituents?
Mark Pinsley
“I’ve not needed to use public transit that often in district. When I lived in Boston, I took the T everywhere; it was simply easier than driving. Here, the system isn’t as convenient, My nephew used to live with me and he had to rely on it to get to work. Watching him figure out routes and timing made clear how hard it can be for someone who depends on transit to make it work day to day. We can fix that.”
Jarrett Coleman
Senator Coleman did not respond to our request.
State Transit Cuts
Massive cuts are on the horizon for your transit system and systems across the commonwealth. Would you vote yes on a bill for new, dedicated funding for public transportation in PA?
Mark Pinsley
“Yes.”
Jarrett Coleman
Senator Coleman did not respond to our request, but has previously expressed a belief that the state should not invest in additional transit funding.
During heated state budget negotiations in summer 2025, Coleman spoke against including additional funding for small transit systems like LANTA and large systems like SEPTA:
“LANTA should have to adjust its current day routes and demands [rather than receive additional state funds]. I shouldn’t be relying on folks in New Tripoli to fund routes for SEPTA.”
State Transit Funding
What taxes or fees would you support or propose for funding sustainable and expanded public transit in your district and across the Commonwealth?
Mark Pinsley
“As a state senator, I would advocate for steady, predictable state funding for public transportation rather than relying on one-time fixes. I would support dedicating a greater share of existing state sales tax revenue to public transit, building on proposals to increase transit funding without raising the overall sales tax rate. I would also be open to evaluating targeted transportation fees and other dedicated revenue sources to support reliable service and expand routes where demand is growing, while ensuring that funding mechanisms are fair and do not place an undue burden on working families.”
“The value of transit cannot be measured by fare revenue alone. It must also be measured by the jobs it makes accessible, the independence it provides, the economic activity it supports, and the congestion it helps reduce. Roads, bridges, highways, and airports all require public investment because transportation is essential infrastructure. Public transit deserves the same recognition.”
Jarrett Coleman
Senator Coleman did not respond to our request, but he has sponsored a bill to eliminate the state’s gas tax – the main source of funding for public transit in Pennsylvania.
Using Public Transit
Will you take a photo or video of yourself taking public transit to show your support for non-drivers in your district?
Mark Pinsley
“Yes.”
Jarrett Coleman
Senator Coleman did not respond to our request.
Vote Transit!
Public transit is an essential service across Pennsylvania. That’s why you should know where the candidates stand: so you can vote with confidence in these vital midterm elections.
While you wait, take the Pledge to #VoteTransit on November 3rd so that you and thousands of other Pennsylvanians can show your representatives where you stand!
