Election 2026: Republican Kathleen Tomlinson For State Representative

Candidates running in the Nov. 5 general election are providing background about themselves and their positions on the issues to voters in these profiles, which will run in Patch individually for each candidate.

BENSALEM TOWNSHIP, PA —State Rep. Kathleen “K.C.” Tomlinson is running for re-election as a Republican for state representative in the 18th Legislative District against Democrat Bryan Allen in the Nov. 3 general election.

Biographical Information

Name: Kathleen “K.C.” Tomlinson

Age: 38

Town of residence: Bensalem Township

Position sought: State Representative of the 18th Legislative District

Are you an incumbent?: Yes

What Towns Does Your District Cover?: Bensalem Township, Hulmeville Borough

Party affiliation: Republican

Family: My husband, my daughter, and two dogs

Education: Bensalem High School, college degree

Occupation: State Representative

Candidate Questions:

1. What is your stance on data centers?

I agree with Gov. Josh Shapiro on data centers: We need strict guiderails that stop predatory developers and allows local municipalities a voice in where they are located. I voted for the Governor’s plan earlier this year and I think we need to put into law his executive order. If a community wants a data center it should sign benefit agreements with the developer, the data center should be built with skilled, union, and local labor whenever possible, it should adhere to strict environmental standards, we should repeal any tax breaks for hyperscalers, and it should generate its own power to the grid so not a penny is taken from the community for the power used.

2. What would be the best plan for redevelopment of Neshaminy Mall?

While I am disappointed to see the mall close, I am excited to see what ideas the community and the private sector have for this space. Mall redevelopment is something that is happening all across the country, as shoppers utilize online shopping and other conveniences that cut down on foot traffic at malls. I hope that whatever is done with the mall they seek ample community input so we can come up with a use that is both commercially viable and has the support of the community. I stand ready to assist in any way I can.

3. What are some of the top issues in your district?

Nothing has been on the minds of voters more than affordability. I am proud to have worked with the Governor on cutting taxes seven different times, including the Working Families Tax Credit and the first property tax relief in over two decades, with a special focus on low-income seniors. We’ve also worked together to fight PECO rate increase and to repeal the disastrous Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative the last governor entered us into unilaterally. Those accomplishments prevented working families from seeing an $1,100 increase in their utility bills. We’ve done a lot, but we have more to do. I hope we can pass an income tax cut that let’s families keep more of what they earn. I also have an interest in passing a temporary suspension of the gas tax, while being sure to protect the funding for roads, bridges, and transit without using the rainy day fund or a bonding solution. I will also continue to advocate for more education funding. I’ve worked with the Governor and members of both parties, we not only passed record funding for public schools but also the first major charter school reform that has and will continue to save Bensalem School District millions. I’ll continue making affordability my top priority in the legislature.