Candidate for
State Representative; Pennsylvania State House of Representatives; District 5; Republican Party

A long time resident of Bethel Township, Ken Norton hopes to take the experience he has gained over the years, to bring leadership and new vision to the State House of Representatives.

"I see this new legislative district as a new opportunity, for the people of Berks County and for the state as well," Ken said. "I view Berks county as the focal point of change in many ways. We have led the charge on property tax elimination in a spirit that has made it clear we value our liberties. I want to take that spirit to Harrisburg. We don't need more laws, we need common sense and vision that meet the challenges of today's economy."

Ken joined the Navy in 1978, while still in high school. He reflects, "I have always had a deep love for my country. Serving my country and defending our freedom did not seem like an option to me, it was my duty." Ken served in the Navy for six years, with four years of sea-duty on board the aircraft carrier USS America.

After getting married and having a child, Ken again answered another call to duty, this time in his community. Through his leadership as a supervisor in Bethel Township, Ken was able to turn around years of deficit spending, restore financial accountability, make township government open and transparent, and put a detailed budgeting procedure in place that is still in use today. Ken continues to be active in his community in many ways, including membership in the local fire company and as the Vice-Chair of Bethel Townships Environmental Advisory Council.

Ken currently works for Harrisburg Area Community College. "Over the years I have changed jobs, like so many others, going where the work is. It is time to bring jobs here. It is time to give honest people the real jobs they want and need to raise a family.

Knowing there are solutions out there, Ken feels he is ready to take on the challenges he sees in Harrisburg. He said, "Since the time I was discharged from the Navy until now, businesses have vanished and our economy has declined. We need people willing to take an honest look at what is happening, and look for real solutions that provide jobs for today, and a future for our children." Ken has served his country, his community, and now seeks to serve his state by bringing vision and leadership to Harrisburg.

At his announcement, State Senator Mike Folmer endorsed Ken's candidacy saying, "Ken Norton has the kind of leadership Harrisburg needs." Like Senator Folmer, Ken has promised not to take a state pension if elected.