HARRISBURG, PA — The Pennsylvania College Democrats (PACD) convened in the state capital on Monday, October 6, for their annual Lobby Day, urging lawmakers to take action on two key issues affecting students and communities across the Commonwealth: funding for public transit and higher education.
Student leaders from universities including the University of Pittsburgh, Muhlenberg College, Wilkes University, West Chester University, the University of Scranton, and the University of Pennsylvania met with legislators to share personal stories and advocate for stronger state investment in education and infrastructure.
At a press conference held during the event, PACD members emphasized the stakes of delayed budget negotiations and the broader impact of the federal government shutdown. They were joined by several Democratic lawmakers, including Representatives Joe Ciresi, Dan Miller, Paul Takac, and Tarik Khan, who voiced support for the students’ call to prioritize funding that supports Pennsylvania’s academic institutions and workforce development.
The organization’s leadership framed the event as part of a broader effort to mobilize young voters and amplify student voices in state politics. “The Pennsylvania College Democrats are leading the way to engage college students in local and state government, encourage participation in elections, and fight for their future,” the group said in a statement.
PACD’s advocacy comes amid ongoing debates over the state budget and concerns about the affordability of higher education and the reliability of public transportation — two issues that directly affect students’ ability to learn, work, and remain in Pennsylvania after graduation.
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