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James Malone

DemocraticIncumbent

Business development analyst

James Malone is a Democratic candidate for Pennsylvania State Senate District 36 in the 2026 election. They are the incumbent.

From the candidate’s public filings

Background

James Malone earned an associate degree from Northwest College in 1995 and a bachelor's degree from Lee University in 1997. His career experience includes working in business application development and as a business development analyst. He has been affiliated with the Pennsylvania State Mayors Association and the Tall Cedar Foundation.[1] [2]

Associates:
Northwest College, 1995
Bachelor's:
Lee University, 1997

In their own words

Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

James Malone’s story is one of perseverance, hard work, and heart. He grew up in Wyoming, where his family sometimes relied on hunting and fishing to get by. When he and his brother were struggling at home as kids, a compassionate police officer stepped in to make sure they got the help they needed, which shaped James’s lifelong respect for first responders and his belief that government should be a force for good.

To put himself through college, James worked as a roofer, which taught him the value of keeping your word, showing up early, and doing the job right. He also had a long career in IT, which gives him the background to help businesses succeed. His work ethic drives him today as a state senator, where he’s earned a reputation as a practical, straight-talking leader who listens.

Before being elected to the Senate, James served as the Mayor of East Petersburg, where he saw firsthand how local leaders and first responders often step in to fill the gaps left by underfunded social services. That experience continues to guide his push for stronger mental-health resources, better support for first responders, and smarter investments in public safety.

James is known for his willingness to work across party lines to get real results. He’s guided by a simple principle that when you treat people with respect, you can find common ground and make progress that lasts.

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?

Building strong communities: When small businesses thrive, neighborhoods grow stronger, and first responders have the tools they need to keep us safe. James is focused on strengthening communities by investing in reliable infrastructure, supporting local jobs, and ensuring the people who serve Pennsylvania families have the resources they need to do their work well.Investing in strong public schools: Every student deserves a safe, high-quality education. James has championed fair funding for public schools and helped pass new protections to keep students safe, including legislation requiring schools to report incidents of digital harassment and exploitation. He believes education is the foundation of opportunity and the best investment we can make in Pennsylvania’s future.Lowering the cost of everyday essentials: Families are feeling the squeeze from rising prices on everything from healthcare to groceries. James is working to lower the cost of living by addressing healthcare costs, expanding access to affordable housing, and supporting policies that make life more affordable for working people.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

- Investing in public schools so every child learns in a safe, well-funded classroom

- Lowering the costs of everyday essentials

- Supporting small businesses and good-paying jobs through smart economic growth

- Strengthening services for seniors, veterans, and first responders

- Protecting Pennsylvania’s natural resources and outdoor traditions

- Improving access to mental-health care and community safety resources

- Ensuring libraries remain funded and accessible for all

- Standing up for working people and the building trades

What organizations or individuals have endorsed your campaign?

Gov. Josh Shapiro

Lt. Gov. Austin Davis

PSEA

Humane Pennsylvania

James Malone did not complete [the profile publisher]'s 2025 Candidate Connection survey.

On the 2026 ballot

Links

Compiled from the candidate’s published profile as of September 30, 2026.

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