Davon Magwood

Davon Magwood was born in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. He earned a high school diploma from Schenley High School. His career experience includes working as a chef.[1]

Davon Magwood has not yet completed [the profile publisher]'s 2026 Candidate Connection survey.

Send a message to Davon Magwood asking him to fill out the survey.

If you are Davon Magwood, click here to fill out [the profile publisher]'s 2026 Candidate Connection survey.

Who fills out the candidate survey?

Any candidate running for elected office, at any level, can complete [the profile publisher]'s Candidate Survey. Completing the survey will update the candidate's [the profile publisher] profile, letting voters know who they are and what they stand for.  More than 32,000 candidates have taken [the profile publisher]'s candidate survey since we launched it in 2015. Learn more about the survey here.

You can ask Davon Magwood to fill out this survey by using the button below or emailing magwoodforpa@gmail.com.

Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

I'm Davon Magwood, a working-class father of three and a progressive Democrat running for the 55th District in Pennsylvania. I grew up in government housing, watching my single mother work her way to the middle class, and I understand the challenges many families face because I've lived them. Over the years, I’ve experienced the frustrations of dealing with slumlords, working multiple jobs for low wages, and sacrificing time with my family just to make ends meet.

I've worn many hats throughout my life, including working as a chef and line cook. These experiences taught me the value of hard work, long hours, and the importance of standing up for fair wages and workers' rights. As a stand-up comedian and screenwriter, I’ve built a career on being real and connecting with people, and now I’m ready to bring that same authenticity to Harrisburg.

I’m running to fight for affordable housing, higher wages, and better schools because I believe everyone deserves the chance to succeed, no matter their background. I know what it means to struggle, and I’m committed to ensuring that no one else has to endure the same obstacles without support. Together, we can build a fairer, more inclusive community where everyone has access to the opportunities they need to thrive.

Please list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office?

Affordable Housing & Renters' Rights

Davon Magwood is dedicated to ensuring affordable housing for all and holding slumlords accountable. He will fight for policies that protect renters and build stronger, more vibrant communities.Living Wages for Working Families

As someone who’s worked multiple jobs to make ends meet, Davon understands the importance of raising the minimum wage. He’s committed to ensuring every worker earns a living wage to reduce inequality and support hardworking families.Investing in Education

Davon will prioritize increasing state funding for public schools, ensuring that all children have access to quality education without burdening homeowners with higher taxes. He also supports earmarking marijuana sales tax revenue to fund public education.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

I’m passionate about several key areas of public policy that deeply affect our community. Affordable housing is at the top of my list—I’ve experienced the struggles of dealing with slumlords and believe everyone deserves a safe, affordable place to live. I’m also committed to workers’ rights, including raising the minimum wage, because no one should have to work multiple jobs just to survive. Investing in public education is crucial, and I believe in funding schools equitably without overburdening homeowners. I’m also a staunch advocate for reproductive rights, ensuring that women can make their own healthcare decisions. Lastly, environmental justice is critical—clean air and water should be a basic right, and I will fight to hold polluters

Who do you look up to? Whose example would you like to follow, and why?

I look up to Frederick Douglass, Malcolm X, and Harriet Tubman. These figures have shown immense courage and determination in their fight for justice and equality, and their examples guide my own work.

Is there a book, essay, film, or something else you would recommend to someone who wants to understand your political philosophy?

If I were to recommend something that reflects my political philosophy, I’d suggest a combination of works that capture my core values of justice, personal freedom, and the fight for equality:

1. "Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass" by Frederick Douglass – This autobiography beautifully illustrates the fight for human dignity, justice, and freedom, all of which resonate with my own views on standing up for the underprivileged and fighting for equality.

2. "Second Treatise of Government" by John Locke – This essay highlights natural rights, the role of government, and the importance of liberty, which align with my belief in protecting individual freedoms and ensuring government serves the people.

3. The Matrix" – The theme of breaking free from oppressive systems in search of truth and justice mirrors my stance on challenging unfair economic and political systems.

What characteristics or principles are most important for an elected official?

The most important characteristics for an elected official are integrity, empathy, and accountability. Integrity ensures they act honestly and uphold ethical standards, even when no one is watching. Empathy is critical for understanding and addressing the diverse needs of the people they serve, particularly those facing hardship. Accountability means being transparent in their actions, standing by their decisions, and taking responsibility for the outcomes of their policies. Along with these traits, a strong commitment to fairness and justice is vital to advocate for policies that benefit all citizens, not just a select few.

What qualities do you possess that you believe would make you a successful officeholder?

Resilience: Growing up in government housing and facing many challenges, I've learned how to persevere in the face of adversity. This resilience drives me to keep fighting for working families and to never back down, even when the odds seem overwhelming.

Empathy: I’ve lived through the struggles many people in my district face—dealing with slumlords, working multiple jobs to get by, and balancing family responsibilities. These experiences give me a deep understanding of what others are going through, and I’m committed to making sure their voices are heard.

Authenticity: I pride myself on being real and transparent. Whether it's on stage as a stand-up comedian or in the community as an advocate, I’ve always been honest with people, and I bring that same authenticity to my work as a candidate.

Passion for Justice: My commitment to affordable housing, raising the minimum wage, and protecting reproductive rights comes from a genuine belief that everyone deserves a fair shot at life. I’m passionate about making sure no one is left behind and working to create a more just and equitable society.

What do you believe are the core responsibilities for someone elected to this office?

The core responsibilities for someone elected to this office are to represent the needs and interests of their constituents, ensure that legislation reflects the community’s priorities, and advocate for policies that improve the lives of the people they serve. This includes crafting and supporting laws that address issues like affordable housing, education, workers’ rights, and healthcare. Additionally, a representative must be accessible and responsive to the concerns of their district, actively engaging with the community through town halls, events, and regular communication. Finally, they are responsible for maintaining transparency and accountability, keeping voters informed and being open about their decisions and actions while in office.

What legacy would you like to leave?

I want to leave a legacy of real, lasting change for the people in my community—one where families can afford to live in safe, decent housing, where workers are paid a fair wage, and where everyone has access to quality education and healthcare. I hope to be remembered as someone who fought for the underrepresented, stood up against injustice, and worked tirelessly to restore hope in our communities.

I want my legacy to reflect that I never backed down from the tough fights and that I put people first, even when it was difficult. Whether it’s through the policies I help pass, the lives I touch, or the sense of unity I help foster, I hope to be remembered as someone who truly cared about making a difference and left things better than I found them.

What is the first historical event that happened in your lifetime that you remember? How old were you at the time?

Rodney King and Bill Clinton. Had to be almost 8

What was your very first job? How long did you have it?

McDonald's, hated it.

What is your favorite book? Why?

One of my favorite books is Ender’s Game by Orson Scott Card. I love this book because it’s not just a story about war or strategy; it’s about the complexities of leadership, the burden of responsibility, and the moral dilemmas that come with making tough decisions. Ender’s journey, his empathy for others, and his struggle with the consequences of his actions resonate with me deeply. It’s a powerful reminder that leadership isn’t just about power or control—it’s about understanding people, making sacrifices, and sometimes facing the harsh realities of the choices we make. The book challenges you to think beyond the surface, which is something I try to bring into my own life and work.

If you could be any fictional character, who would you want to be?

Batman

What was the last song that got stuck in your head?

Tubthumping

What is something that has been a struggle in your life?

One of the biggest struggles in my life has been trying to balance working multiple jobs while providing for my family. As a single father of three, I’ve experienced firsthand the difficulties of working long hours in jobs that didn’t pay enough, all while trying to make time for my kids and be present in their lives. It’s hard when you’re constantly juggling responsibilities, knowing that no matter how much you work, it never feels like enough.

What do you believe is the ideal relationship between the governor and state legislature?

I believe the ideal relationship between the governor and the state legislature should be built on collaboration, mutual respect, and a shared commitment to serving the people. Both the executive and legislative branches have distinct roles, but when they work together effectively, they can create meaningful, lasting change.

The governor should provide visionary leadership and work with the legislature to advance policies that benefit the state. At the same time, the legislature must act as a check on executive power, ensuring that decisions are made democratically and with broad input from elected representatives.

In an ideal relationship, there should be open lines of communication and a willingness to compromise on key issues. While disagreements are inevitable, both sides should focus on finding common ground and solutions that reflect the needs of all constituents. When the governor and legislature work in concert, they can create a balanced, responsive government that effectively addresses the needs of the people.

What do you perceive to be your state's greatest challenges over the next decade?

Over the next decade, I believe Pennsylvania will face several key challenges:

Economic Inequality: One of the state’s most pressing issues is the widening gap between the wealthy and working-class families. We need to raise the minimum wage, invest in job training, and create opportunities for economic mobility to ensure that all Pennsylvanians can thrive.

Affordable Housing: As housing costs continue to rise, more residents will struggle to afford safe, stable housing. Addressing this requires policies that promote affordable housing development and stronger protections for renters.

Education Funding: Pennsylvania’s reliance on property taxes to fund schools has led to deep inequalities in education. The challenge is to create a more equitable funding model that ensures every child has access to quality education, regardless of where they live.

Climate Change and Environmental Justice: As the effects of climate change become more apparent, Pennsylvania must address environmental challenges, including clean air, water, and sustainable energy. Transitioning to renewable energy, holding corporate polluters accountable, and preparing for climate adaptation will be critical.

Healthcare Access: Access to affordable healthcare, particularly in rural areas, will continue to be a major issue. Expanding Medicaid and protecting reproductive healthcare services are crucial to ensuring everyone has the medical care they need.

Infrastructure: Aging infrastructure, particularly in rural and underserved urban areas, poses a challenge for Pennsylvania. Modernizing transportation systems, investing in broadband access, and improving public transit will be necessary to support economic growth.

Addressing these challenges will require forward-thinking, bipartisan efforts to create solutions that work for everyone.

Do you believe that it’s beneficial for state legislators to have previous experience in government or politics?

While previous experience in government or politics can be beneficial for state legislators, I believe it is not essential. What matters most is having a deep understanding of the issues facing your community, a passion for public service, and the ability to listen, learn, and collaborate.

Experience in government can provide useful knowledge of how policies are created and how to navigate the political system. However, fresh perspectives from those without traditional political backgrounds are equally important. People with diverse life experiences, such as working-class individuals, educators, healthcare workers, or small business owners, can bring valuable insights into the challenges their communities face.

Do you believe it’s beneficial to build relationships with other legislators? Please explain your answer.

Yes, I believe it is highly beneficial to build relationships with other legislators. Strong working relationships foster collaboration, trust, and open communication, which are essential for passing effective legislation. No matter how strong your ideas or policies are, progress often requires support and compromise from colleagues across the aisle and within your own party.

Is there a particular legislator, past or present, whom you want to model yourself after?

If I were to model myself after a particular legislator, it would be Frederick Douglass, though he wasn’t a traditional legislator. His life and activism embody the principles of justice, equality, and perseverance that I admire and strive to bring into my own work. Douglass fought tirelessly for the rights of marginalized communities, particularly African Americans, and his advocacy for freedom and equality resonates deeply with my political philosophy.

On the legislative front, I admire John Lewis, who served in Congress. His unwavering commitment to civil rights, voting rights, and justice serves as an example of a public servant who stayed true to his values while working within the political system to create real change. Lewis’s approach of "good trouble" reminds me of the importance of fighting for what’s right, even when it’s difficult.

Both Douglass and Lewis were fearless advocates for justice, and they used their platforms to uplift others. Their courage, integrity, and dedication to serving the greater good are qualities I aim to model in my own work.

Are you interested in running for a different political office (for example, the U.S. Congress or governor) in the future?

Right now, my focus is on serving the people of the 55th District and making a meaningful impact at the state level. I’m committed to addressing the challenges our community faces—affordable housing, workers’ rights, education, and environmental justice. I believe that change starts at the local and state levels, where legislators can have a direct impact on the everyday lives of their constituents.

That said, if I’m able to effectively serve my community and make real progress, I wouldn’t rule out the possibility of running for a different office in the future. Whether it’s U.S. Congress or another role, I would only consider it if I felt I could continue to bring positive change and serve in a way that truly benefits the people I represent.

For now, my priority is fighting for the needs of my district and ensuring that every voice is heard in Harrisburg.

Both sitting legislators and candidates for office hear many personal stories from the residents of their district. Is there a story that you’ve heard that you found particularly touching, memorable, or impactful?

Yes, one story that stands out and has had a profound impact on me was shared by a woman in our community. She told me how almost all of her neighbors had overdosed, but she emphasized that the real issue wasn’t just the drug crisis itself—it was the overwhelming lack of hope in our community. This story struck me deeply because it revealed the bigger picture: the despair that many people are living with, feeling like there are no opportunities, no support, and no path forward.

It reinforced for me that the work we need to do isn’t just about addressing surface-level symptoms like addiction, but tackling the root causes—creating economic opportunities, ensuring access to mental health services, and rebuilding a sense of community and hope. Her story is a constant reminder of why I’m running: to restore that hope and to ensure that no one feels left behind or forgotten. It’s stories like this that drive my commitment to making real, systemic change.

Tell us your favorite joke.

there are literally too many, and none are good for this platform.

Should the legislature oversee or grant the use of emergency powers?

Yes, the legislature should have a role in overseeing or granting the use of emergency powers. While it’s important for a governor or executive branch to act swiftly in times of crisis, there must be a balance to ensure those powers are not overused or abused. Emergency powers are meant to address urgent situations, but they must be temporary, transparent, and subject to checks and balances.

What is the first bill you would introduce if elected?

The first bill I would introduce, if elected, would focus on renters’ protections and affordable housing.

What organizations or individuals have endorsed your campaign?

AFL-CIO Labor, Run For Something. my mom

What committees interest you?

Housing and Urban Affairs,Labor and Industry,Education,Environmental Resources and Energy

What are your views on financial transparency and government accountability?

I believe financial transparency and government accountability are cornerstones of a healthy democracy. Elected officials and government agencies must be fully transparent about how taxpayer dollars are being used. This ensures that the public can trust that their government is working in their best interest and not for special interests or private gain.

Transparency means making budgets, spending, and decisions accessible and understandable to the public. I strongly support efforts to provide clear, open reporting on government spending and to ensure that every dollar is spent wisely and for the benefit of the community.

Accountability is just as critical. Elected officials must be held responsible for their decisions and actions. This includes being responsive to constituents, addressing their concerns, and owning up to mistakes when they occur. I believe in open, honest communication between elected officials and the people they represent, and I would work tirelessly to ensure that decisions are made in the public's best interest, with full transparency at every step.

Would a state ballot initiative process be good or bad for your state?

A state ballot initiative process could have both positive and negative effects for Pennsylvania, depending on how it's implemented. On the positive side, a ballot initiative process allows citizens to have a more direct role in shaping state policy, giving them the ability to propose and vote on laws that reflect their concerns and priorities. This can be particularly valuable when the legislature is slow to act on important issues or is out of touch with the needs of the people.

However, there are also potential downsides. Ballot initiatives can sometimes be influenced by well-funded special interest groups that push policies that may not benefit the broader population. There’s also a risk that complex issues could be oversimplified in the initiative process, leading to unintended consequences in the implementation of laws.