Independent Candidate Enters 154th Legislative Race

JENKINTOWN, PA — An Independent candidate has entered the race to become state representative in the 154th Legislative District.

Stephanie Berardi is running as a candidate under "Progress for Pennsylvania," joining the race against Democratic incumbent Napoleon Nelson.

The 154th Legislative District includes Cheltenham Township, Jenkintown Borough, and Springfield Township.

Berardi said she will make environmental protection and public health the central focus of her campaign.

“Environmental protection is about more than policies and regulations," she said. "It’s about safeguarding the health, safety, and livelihoods of the people who live and work in our communities — from families and small-business owners to construction workers and first responders."

Her tenure has included working with former state Rep. Steve McCarter and state Sen. Amanda Cappelletti, followed by a position as regional communications manager for the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection.

She worked on air and water quality, environmental cleanup, brownfields, waste management, waterways and wetlands, environmental justice and energy programs.

“My background in government and environmental policy has shown me how decisions made in Harrisburg directly affect people’s daily lives,” Berardi said. “From protecting air and water quality to addressing environmental cleanup and environmental justice, I’ve seen how important it is to be transparent, put public health first, work across party lines, and make decisions that protect the well-being of our communities.”

Berardi points to the Feb. 18, 2025, SPS Technologies factory fire as a defining moment that led her to run for office.

Berardi said she spent that day alongside firefighters, police officers, and emergency responders and liaised with officials in Cheltenham, Jenkintown, and Abington to help communicate critical information to residents during the crisis.

Her involvement continued in the aftermath, reinforcing the importance of clear communication, community coordination, and a sustained commitment to protecting residents and addressing the concerns that remain after an environmental emergency.

“Leadership is about showing up, working together, and putting people first,” Berardi said. “In a crisis, there is no room for politics. There is only the work of keeping people informed, protecting the community, and helping people through it.”

Berardi is funding her campaign with support from friends and family and says she is not backed by political organizations or special-interest groups.

Berardi is also moving forward following the recent sudden loss of her brother. She says the loss has strengthened her determination to continue serving her neighbors and pursuing work she believes matters.

“Losing my brother has reminded me how precious life is and how important it is to keep moving forward,” Berardi said. “I’m choosing to keep going, keep serving and keep working to make a difference.”

Berardi is a former Disney radio personality, small-business owner, mom, and wife of a musician and award-winning recording engineer.