LANCASTER COUNTY, Pa. —
Democratic State Sen. James Malone is seeking reelection for the Pennsylvania’s 36th Senate District in the Nov. 3 general election against Republican challenger Tom Jones.
Video above: Pennsylvania’s 36th Senate District candidates debate
Pennsylvania General Assembly
Here’s where Malone stands on the issues, according to his campaign website.
Lowering everyday costs
Malone’s campaign identifies the rising costs of health care, groceries, utilities and housing as significant pressures on working families.
The senator supports policies intended to reduce health care expenses and expand access to affordable housing. His campaign says he would continue working on proposals designed to make essential goods and services more affordable for Pennsylvania residents.
Investing in public schools
Public education is another leading priority for Malone. His campaign says he supports fair and adequate funding for public schools, along with measures intended to create safer learning environments.
Malone helped pass legislation requiring schools to report incidents involving digital harassment and exploitation, according to his campaign. He describes education as both the foundation of opportunity and an investment in Pennsylvania’s future.
Supporting communities and first responders
Malone’s platform calls for investments in infrastructure, small businesses and local employment. His campaign argues that thriving businesses and reliable public services contribute to stronger neighborhoods.
The senator also supports providing first responders with the staffing, equipment and other resources needed to serve their communities. Before joining the Senate, Malone served eight years as mayor of East Petersburg, an experience his campaign says shaped his views on public safety, mental health services and municipal needs.
Seeking local control over data centers
Malone is also calling for municipalities to have more authority over data center development.
His campaign says he urged Senate leaders to return the chamber to session to consider regulations that would give local governments additional tools to address potential pollution, utility-rate increases and other effects associated with the facilities.
Malone maintains that residents and municipal officials should have a meaningful role in deciding where and how data centers are developed.
Proposing restrictions on gifts to officials
Government ethics is another component of Malone’s platform. He introduced legislation that would prohibit elected officials, public employees and candidates for public office from accepting cash gifts, according to his campaign.
The proposal would also prohibit them from accepting more than $50 in gifts from a single source during a calendar year. Malone’s campaign says the measure is intended to reduce the influence of special interests and reinforce public trust in government.
Protecting natural resources and outdoor traditions
Malone, the Democratic chair of the Senate Game and Fisheries Committee, has made conservation and Pennsylvania’s outdoor heritage part of his reelection message.
His campaign says he supports responsible conservation, additional opportunities for Sunday hunting and policies protecting forests, waterways, farmland, livestock and rural communities.
Malone presents hunting and fishing as important parts of Pennsylvania’s culture that should be preserved for future generations.
Supporting seniors and retirees
Malone’s agenda also includes protecting pensions, reducing health care costs and strengthening services for older Pennsylvanians.
His campaign says those policies are intended to help seniors remain financially secure and live independently with dignity.
Malone and Jones will compete for the 36th District seat in the Nov. 3, 2026, general election. Learn where Jones stands on the issues here.