James Julius

James Julius was born in McKees Rocks, Pennsylvania. He earned a high school diploma from Brentwood High School. He earned a bachelor's degree from Robert Morris University in 2008, a graduate degree from Robert Morris University in 2008, and a graduate degree from Carnegie Mellon University, Tepper School of Business in 2013. His career experience includes working as a business owner and president.[1]

Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

I’m James Julius, a husband, father of four, and small business owner in Robinson Township. My wife, Catherine, and I are raising our family here. I volunteer with Scouts, attend Orchard Hill Church, and enjoy running, cooking, and spending time with my kids.

I’m running because I care about the place we call home. You deserve someone who listens, shows up, and follows through. That’s how I’ll work for you, regardless of your party.

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?

From here. For here. It’s the candidate, not the party.

I’m a husband, father of four, and small business owner raising my family here. My priorities will come from our communities. I’ll work with anyone who has a good idea, regardless of party. I’ll hold monthly one-on-one meetings and quarterly community meetings so you can raise concerns, help set priorities, and hear what I’m doing about them. You deserve someone who listens, follows through, and takes responsibility. I’m asking you to judge me by the work I do for you.Make life affordable and build opportunity here.

Families are working hard and still feeling squeezed. I’ll work to lower gas and electricity costs, cut wasteful state spending, and make it easier for local businesses to grow and hire. As a small business owner, I know that delays and red tape cost time and money. We need clear rules and a government that helps people get things done. I support strong schools and practical paths into good jobs, including the trades. Our kids should be able to build a future here, and longtime residents should be able to afford to stay.Protect what matters.

I believe innocent life deserves protection, from the unborn child to the elderly neighbor. Families deserve safe communities, great schools, and help when an emergency happens. I’ll support our police, firefighters, and EMS crews with the tools and resources they need to serve us. I’ll work for schools where teachers have support, parents are heard, and children can learn safely. Protecting people means showing up and doing the work. I’ll listen to the people closest to these challenges and make responsible use of your tax dollars to address them.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

I’m passionate about protecting people and helping families build a good life here. I support Alina’s Law to let judges order GPS monitoring in high-risk protection-from-abuse cases, giving domestic violence victims stronger protection. I’ve publicly called for ending prior authorization so patients and doctors can make treatment decisions without unnecessary insurance delays. As a father of four and Scouting volunteer, I support strong schools, career training, and apprenticeships. As a small business owner, I want simpler permits, better roads, and affordable energy so local employers can grow and families can afford to stay.

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

I look up to my grandfather. He went to night school to become an airline mechanic and worked for Piedmont, then Allegheny, then USAir. He and people like him helped build this area through hard work and learning a trade. I admire his willingness to put in the effort to build a better life. His example reminds me that our communities depend on people who show up and do their jobs well. That’s the example I want to follow: keep learning, work hard, and do something useful for the people who count on you.

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

Honesty, good judgment, and accountability. An elected official should listen before making decisions, keep promises, and admit when they get something wrong. You need firm principles and the humility to learn from people who see things differently. You should be willing to work across party lines, explain your votes in plain language, and treat tax dollars with care. Above all, you work for the people you represent. That means being available, following through, and serving everyone, including those who didn’t vote for you. Trust is earned through what you do, day after day.

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

A state representative’s job is to give our communities a voice in Harrisburg, write and vote on state laws, pass a responsible budget, and hold state agencies accountable. Just as important is helping residents when they have trouble getting answers or services from the state. That means returning calls, following up, and staying involved until there is a clear answer. A representative should work with local leaders on needs like roads, schools, and public safety, explain their votes, and report back on their work. You represent the whole district, including people who disagree with you.

What legacy would you like to leave?

I’d like people to say I listened, kept my word, and left our communities better than I found them. That families could afford to stay here, our kids had good opportunities, and people got help when they needed it. My grandfather’s generation helped build this area. I want to do my part to care for it and pass it on stronger. If my kids can look back and say their dad served people well, and my neighbors can point to things that improved because I showed up and did the work, that would mean a lot to me.

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

My first job was cutting grass and taking care of the grounds at the Red Bull Inn. I did that for a summer. After college, I worked as a network engineer for LANTtek Computer Services in Carnegie for about two years.

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

Ultrarunning has challenged me to work through doubt when things get hard. During a 100-mile race, I’ve felt worn down far earlier than expected and wondered how I could possibly keep going. You can train for months and still have a day that doesn’t go your way. I’m learning to be patient with myself, adjust my plan, and focus on the next manageable step. Sometimes that means slowing down or accepting help. Those experiences have taught me that falling short doesn’t erase the work you’ve done, and there is always something to learn from a difficult day.

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

The governor and legislature should work together while respecting each other’s responsibilities. The governor can set out a vision and propose priorities, then carry out the laws and spending that are enacted. The legislature should pass good laws, repeal bad ones, and make responsible investments in the Commonwealth’s future. That means setting clear priorities and spending within our means. They should hold each other accountable, work through disagreements openly, and remember that both serve the people of Pennsylvania.

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

I believe our biggest challenge is the growing influence of special interests. When outside agendas and money carry more weight than the people who live in a district, meaningful representation suffers. Politics becomes more hostile, trust breaks down, and local needs get pushed aside. We need leaders who answer to their communities and can work together. Our second major challenge is aging infrastructure: roads, bridges, water systems, and other basics we depend on every day. We need to plan ahead, maintain what we have, and spend responsibly so the next generation inherits safe, reliable systems instead of a growing repair bill.

Do you believe that compromise is necessary or desirable for policymaking?

Yes. People can agree on a problem and disagree on how to solve it. Good policymaking means listening, finding common ground, and being willing to accept a useful step forward. I’ll work with anyone to lower costs, improve roads, strengthen schools, and keep our communities safe. Compromise should have a clear purpose and a real benefit for the people we serve. It should never mean abandoning core principles or making deals you can’t explain openly. Voters deserve to know what we agreed to, why we agreed to it, and how it helps them.

What organizations or individuals have endorsed your campaign?

I’m proud to have earned endorsements from State Senator Devlin Robinson; the Pennsylvania State Troopers Association; Fraternal Order of Police Lodges 1 and 91; FOP National Trail Lodge 47; ChamberPAC; and Firearms Owners Against Crime (FOAC). I’ve also received the recommendation of Life-PAC of Southwestern Pennsylvania.

What was the first historical event that happened in your lifetime that you remember?

The 1992 presidential election is one of the first major events I remember. I was seven, and George H. W. Bush and Ross Perot stand out in my memory from the race that Bill Clinton won. I also remember Richard Nixon’s death and the crash of USAir Flight 427 in 1994. With my grandfather working as an airline mechanic for USAir, the crash was especially close to home.

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Video submitted to BallotpediaReleased March 20, 2024

Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

I am James Julius, a dedicated family man, entrepreneur, and community advocate, now stepping forward as a write-in candidate for Pennsylvania's District 45. With deep roots in Pennsylvania, my life’s journey is built upon a foundation of hard work, innovation, and a steadfast commitment to my family and faith.

As the founder of a successful AI and federal contracting business, I have navigated the complexities of modern technology and business to create solutions that matter. My professional journey has been guided by a belief in ethical leadership and the power of innovation to drive positive change. Beyond my business achievements, I am deeply committed to my community, having volunteered in various capacities to support local initiatives and serve those in need.

My campaign for Pennsylvania's District 45 is born out of a vision that combines preserving our core values with embracing the necessary changes for progress. I believe in the strength of Pennsylvania’s diverse workforce, the untapped potential of our natural and energy resources, and the critical importance of education, healthcare, and infrastructure for the prosperity of our Commonwealth.

Join me in building a stronger, more resilient Pennsylvania. Together, we can make history and create a legacy of prosperity, safety, and opportunity for all.

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?

Economic Revitalization and Job Creation:

My campaign is focused on reigniting Pennsylvania's economy through strategic investments in our workforce and cutting-edge industries. By expanding tax credits and grant programs for blue-collar apprenticeships, we're preparing Pennsylvanians for high-paying, future-proof jobs. Embracing artificial intelligence will not only enhance our economic competitiveness but also ensure that Pennsylvania leads in innovation, creating opportunities for all.Educational Freedom for All: I strongly advocate for school choice, believing that parents should have the freedom to choose the best educational paths for their children. By supporting a variety of educational options including public, private, and charter schools, we ensure access to quality education for every child, regardless of their zip code. This policy is about empowering families and fostering an environment where every student can thrive.Advancing Energy Independence:

Committing to energy independence, my campaign supports bolstering Pennsylvania's natural gas and coal sectors, alongside promoting safe nuclear energy. This strategy not only secures our energy future but also positions the Commonwealth as a key energy exporter. Through innovation and sustainable practices, we aim to achieve economic prosperity and reduce the tax burden on our citizens, ensuring Pennsylvania remains a vibrant place to live and work.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

I am deeply passionate about revitalizing Pennsylvania's economic landscape, enhancing educational opportunities, and ensuring healthcare affordability. My focus on economic development through job creation, energy independence, and technological advancement aims to secure a prosperous future for every Pennsylvanian. In education, I advocate for school choice, believing that empowering families to choose the best educational paths fosters excellence and innovation. Addressing healthcare, my goal is to make quality care more accessible and affordable, tackling systemic inefficiencies and the opioid epidemic head-on. These policy areas are crucial for building a stronger, healthier, and more vibrant Pennsylvania.

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

The person I look up to most is my grandfather, who passed away in 2008. He was not only a skilled airline mechanic for Allegheny Airlines and later USAir but also a dedicated family man who embraced his faith in Christ later in life. His commitment to family, hard work, and faith profoundly influenced me. He inspired me to strive for excellence in all areas of life, including following Christ, valuing education, and dedicating myself to being a good father. His encouragement was pivotal in my decision to pursue higher education early on. He was my biggest advocate, and his example is one I aim to follow both in my personal life and in my service to others.

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

For those seeking to understand my political philosophy, especially through the lens of servant leadership, I highly recommend "Leadership Is an Art" by Max De Pree. This book captures the essence of servant leadership—a concept that aligns closely with my principles as a Republican. De Pree articulates the importance of leading with empathy, integrity, and a deep commitment to the growth and well-being of both individuals and communities.

His perspective reinforces my belief in governance that prioritizes the needs of the people, encouraging leaders to listen actively, act ethically, and foster an environment where every voice is valued and every individual has the opportunity to succeed. This approach to leadership not only resonates with the core Republican values of individual liberty and responsibility but also emphasizes the transformative power of serving others with humility and respect. "Leadership Is an Art" provides invaluable insights into creating meaningful change through compassionate, principled leadership.

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

As a candidate for state legislator and a Republican, I believe the most important characteristics for an elected official are integrity, accountability, and a commitment to serving the public interest above all else. Integrity ensures that every decision is made with honesty and moral clarity, reflecting the values and trust of the constituents. Accountability is crucial for maintaining transparency and trust in governance, requiring officials to take responsibility for their actions and the outcomes of their policies. Additionally, a deep commitment to the public interest guides an official to prioritize the welfare and prosperity of the community, making decisions that foster growth, safety, and opportunity for all citizens. These principles ensure that leadership is not just about holding office, but about making a positive, lasting impact on the lives of the people we serve.

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

I believe my blend of innovation, integrity, and dedication positions me to be a successful officeholder. My entrepreneurial background, particularly in AI and federal contracting, has honed my ability to navigate complex problems and drive forward-looking solutions. This experience instills in me a vision for integrating innovative approaches within government to enhance efficiency and effectiveness.

Integrity forms the core of my decision-making process, ensuring that actions taken are transparent, ethical, and in the best interest of the constituents. This steadfast commitment to ethical governance builds trust and fosters a culture of accountability.

Finally, my deep dedication to family, community, and faith guides my public service, ensuring that the policies and initiatives I support are aimed at improving the lives of all Pennsylvanians. This dedication motivates me to pursue impactful changes that foster prosperity, safety, and opportunity, making me a determined and compassionate advocate for the people of Pennsylvania.

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

The paramount responsibility is to effectuate change that directly enhances the lives and liberties of Pennsylvanians. This duty involves advocating for policies that stimulate economic growth, uphold individual freedoms, and ensure public safety.

Leading with a commitment to fiscal responsibility, it's essential to champion legislation that encourages entrepreneurship, job creation, and minimizes governmental overreach, ensuring taxpayers' hard-earned money is used efficiently for the state's growth and prosperity.

Education policy must focus on empowering parents with school choice, ensuring that every child has access to quality education that meets their unique needs, fostering a generation of well-educated, independent thinkers.

Healthcare initiatives should aim at increasing accessibility and affordability through market-driven solutions and innovation, rather than expanding government control.

Public safety, a core tenet, demands a tough stance on crime and support for law enforcement, ensuring that every Pennsylvanian can live in a safe and secure community.

Effectuating meaningful change requires a steadfast dedication to these principles, ensuring legislation not only reflects the values of our constituents but also actively contributes to a stronger, more prosperous Pennsylvania.

What legacy would you like to leave?

I aspire to leave a legacy of meaningful impact and positive transformation in Pennsylvania. My goal is to be remembered as a leader who revitalized the state's economy, empowered individuals through education and job opportunities, and advanced policies that ensured the well-being and prosperity of all Pennsylvanians. I want my tenure to be marked by significant strides towards energy independence, making Pennsylvania a model for sustainable and innovative energy solutions. Additionally, I aim to be a catalyst for reform in healthcare accessibility and affordability, directly contributing to a healthier and more vibrant community. Ultimately, I wish to leave a legacy of principled leadership, where innovation meets tradition, and where every action taken was guided by integrity, compassion, and a deep commitment to serving the public good.

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

The first historical event I vividly remember occurring in my lifetime was the death of President Richard Nixon in 1994. I was 9 years old at the time. This event stands out in my memory, marking an early moment when I became aware of the broader world of politics and the impact of national figures on our country's history and collective consciousness. It sparked an early interest in public service and the complex legacy of leadership, influencing my understanding of the responsibilities and challenges that come with serving in public office.

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

My journey into the workforce began uniquely as a Junior Councilmember for Brentwood Borough, a role I was honored to be nominated for and served in for one year. In this position, I contributed to community projects, including the establishment of a skate park in our local park, marking my first foray into public service and community improvement. Following this, my first paid employment was at the age of 16, where I spent a summer maintaining the grounds of the Red Bull Inn in Robinson Township. This experience taught me the value of hard work and responsibility. Post-college, I embarked on a professional career at LANTek Computer Service in Carnegie, PA, where I served as a Network Engineer for three years. Each of these roles played a significant part in shaping my work ethic, understanding of community needs, and technical skills, laying the foundation for my commitment to serving and improving Pennsylvania.

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

One of the most significant struggles in my life was the challenge of starting my business from the ground up without any external help or financial backing. Taking the initial step to launch the business was undoubtedly the toughest part of my journey. The process of growing the business presented its own set of challenges, but none as formidable as making that initial leap into entrepreneurship. Over time, my perseverance paid off, allowing me to expand operations from Coraopolis to Carnegie and eventually build a thriving team of 23 dedicated professionals. Today, we take pride in supporting our Federal government and agencies, a testament to the hard work and resilience that have been the cornerstone of my career and personal growth. This journey has taught me the value of determination, innovation, and the power of believing in one’s vision.

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

The ideal relationship between the governor and the state legislature hinges on a balance of leadership and collaboration. The governor's role is fundamentally to administer and execute the policies and laws established by the legislature, effectively managing the state's bureaucratic functions. This doesn't encompass setting or opposing policy but entails following the legislative directives with fidelity. While the legislature is the primary body for policy formulation, the governor serves as the state's political leader, guiding the administrative apparatus to implement these policies efficiently. Additionally, the governor has the prerogative to identify and advocate for specific state priorities, working within the framework set by the legislature to highlight and address urgent needs or opportunities. This delineation of roles ensures a streamlined governance structure where legislative intent is clearly executed by the executive branch, fostering a government that is responsive, responsible, and focused on serving the public interest.

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

Over the next decade, Pennsylvania faces several significant challenges, including economic revitalization, education reform, healthcare accessibility and affordability, and infrastructure modernization. Economic growth remains a top priority, with the need to create more high-paying jobs, support industries, and leverage technological advancements to stay competitive. Education reform is crucial to ensure that every Pennsylvanian has access to quality schooling that prepares them for the future, advocating for school choice and innovative learning models. Healthcare presents another major hurdle, as we strive to make it more accessible and affordable for all, tackling rising costs and the opioid epidemic head-on. Lastly, our aging infrastructure requires significant investments to ensure safety, efficiency, and sustainability for future generations. Addressing these challenges requires thoughtful leadership, strategic investments, and a commitment to policies that promote prosperity, well-being, and opportunity across the Commonwealth.

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 advantageous for state legislators, offering insights into legislative processes and governance challenges, it is not the sole determinant of effectiveness. Diverse perspectives and skills from various professional backgrounds can enrich policymaking, bringing innovative solutions and a broader understanding of the constituents' needs. What's crucial is a deep commitment to public service, a clear understanding of the issues facing the state, and the ability to collaborate and communicate effectively. Skills such as problem-solving, leadership, and negotiation can be as valuable as traditional political experience, if not more so, in crafting policies that truly benefit the public. Ultimately, the effectiveness of a state legislator is defined by their dedication, integrity, and willingness to serve their community, regardless of their professional background.

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

Absolutely, building relationships with other legislators is crucial in politics. Effective governance relies heavily on the ability to collaborate, negotiate, and find common ground, both within one's party and across the aisle. Establishing strong relationships with fellow legislators and senators facilitates a deeper understanding of various policy perspectives and priorities. This not only enhances the potential for bipartisan cooperation but also ensures that legislative efforts are coherent and complementary across both chambers, optimizing the use of time and resources. In essence, fostering these connections is key to advancing meaningful legislation that reflects the diverse needs and interests of our constituents, making relationship-building an indispensable component of successful and impactful governance.

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

In seeking a model for my approach to governance, particularly one who championed small government, robust energy policy, and left a significant mark on Pennsylvania, I am inspired by the leadership of former Governor Dick Thornburgh. His tenure in Pennsylvania was marked by fiscal discipline, a dedication to reforming government operations to improve efficiency, and a strong advocacy for the state’s energy sector, balancing economic growth with environmental stewardship. Thornburgh’s ability to navigate the state through challenging times, including the Three Mile Island crisis, with a focus on transparency and public safety, showcases the importance of level-headed leadership in crisis situations. His legacy of pragmatic problem-solving, commitment to justice through the establishment of the Pennsylvania Crime Commission, and efforts to revitalize the state’s economy set a high bar for public service. Emulating Thornburgh’s blend of principled governance, dedication to the well-being of Pennsylvanians, and a pragmatic approach to policy-making, I aim to serve with a similar focus on efficiency, energy independence, and the betterment of our state.

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

At this moment, my focus and commitment are fully dedicated to serving the people of Pennsylvania's District 45. The challenges and opportunities within this district are where I believe I can make the most significant impact, leveraging my background and vision to drive meaningful change at the state level. While the future is open to possibilities, my priority is to address the immediate needs of our communities, fostering economic growth, educational excellence, healthcare accessibility, and infrastructure improvements. My aspirations are rooted in making a tangible difference in the lives of Pennsylvanians through dedicated, effective service in the state legislature. Any considerations for other political offices would be guided by where I feel I can best serve the public interest and contribute to our collective well-being.

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, a story that has deeply resonated with me comes from the residents of McKees Rocks, PA. This community, once vibrant and bustling, now faces significant economic challenges. The business district, largely vacant, reflects a broader concern among