Pennsylvania Delegation Brings Diverse Voices to State of the Union

Pennsylvania will have a strong presence at President Joe Biden’s upcoming State of the Union address, with members of its U.S. House delegation inviting individuals who represent their communities and the state in unique and impactful ways. These guests bring a diverse range of perspectives and highlight important issues affecting Pennsylvanians.

One of the first lady’s guests will be Samantha Ervin-Upsher, a 23-year-old apprentice with the United Brotherhood of Carpenters Local 432 from Pittsburgh. Ervin-Upsher had the opportunity to meet Jill Biden during a visit to the Investing in America Workforce Hub in Pittsburgh. Her presence at the State of the Union emphasizes the importance of investing in the American workforce and providing opportunities for skilled labor.

U.S. Rep. Summer Lee (D-12th District) will be accompanied by John Moon, a retired assistant chief of Pittsburgh EMS. Lee describes him as a “living legend” who has dedicated his life to serving the community. Moon’s presence at the State of the Union demonstrates the need to honor individuals who go above and beyond to meet the needs of their neighbors, particularly when systems and institutions fail.

Mike Carreon, chairman of the Board of Supervisors of Darlington Township in Beaver County, will be the guest of Rep. Chris Deluzio (D-17th District). Carreon’s community was affected by a hazardous train derailment in February 2023, and he believes that the interests of residents were neglected in favor of financial considerations. This serves as a reminder that safety regulations and accountability should be a priority when it comes to rail transportation.

U.S. Rep. Susan Wild (D-7th District) has invited Christie Nicas of Bethlehem, who has experienced the challenges of in-vitro fertilization (IVF) firsthand. Nicas is concerned about recent restrictions on IVF care in Alabama and believes it is crucial to protect this procedure for individuals who wish to start or expand their families. Her presence at the State of the Union sheds light on the emotional and financial toll that IVF can have on hopeful parents.

Finally, U.S. Rep. Dwight Evans (D-3rd District) has invited Cherelle Parker, Philadelphia’s first woman mayor, as his guest. Parker’s leadership represents a fresh start and positive change for the city. Her presence at the State of the Union highlights the importance of diverse and inclusive leadership at all levels of government.

Together, these guests bring important perspectives and stories to the State of the Union, capturing the unique challenges and aspirations of communities in Pennsylvania. As President Biden addresses the nation, their presence serves as a reminder of the diverse voices that need to be heard and the issues that require attention and action.

FAQs about Pennsylvania Guests at President Biden’s State of the Union Address

Q: Who will be representing Pennsylvania at President Biden’s State of the Union address?
A: Pennsylvania will have a strong presence at the State of the Union address, with members of its U.S. House delegation inviting individuals who represent their communities and the state in unique and impactful ways.

Q: Who is Samantha Ervin-Upsher?
A: Samantha Ervin-Upsher is a 23-year-old apprentice with the United Brotherhood of Carpenters Local 432 from Pittsburgh. She had the opportunity to meet Jill Biden and her presence at the State of the Union emphasizes the importance of investing in the American workforce and providing opportunities for skilled labor.

Q: Who is John Moon?
A: John Moon is a retired assistant chief of Pittsburgh EMS and will be the guest of U.S. Rep. Summer Lee (D-12th District). He is described as a “living legend” who has dedicated his life to serving the community. His presence at the State of the Union highlights the need to honor individuals who go above and beyond to meet the needs of their neighbors.

Q: Who is Mike Carreon?
A: Mike Carreon is the chairman of the Board of Supervisors of Darlington Township in Beaver County. He will be the guest of Rep. Chris Deluzio (D-17th District). Carreon’s community was affected by a hazardous train derailment, and his presence at the State of the Union highlights the importance of safety regulations and accountability in rail transportation.

Q: Who is Christie Nicas?
A: Christie Nicas of Bethlehem has experienced the challenges of in-vitro fertilization (IVF) firsthand. She has been invited by U.S. Rep. Susan Wild (D-7th District) to the State of the Union to shed light on the emotional and financial toll that IVF can have on hopeful parents.

Q: Who is Cherelle Parker?
A: Cherelle Parker is Philadelphia’s first woman mayor and has been invited by U.S. Rep. Dwight Evans (D-3rd District). Her presence at the State of the Union highlights the importance of diverse and inclusive leadership at all levels of government.

Definitions:
1. State of the Union address: The annual speech delivered by the president of the United States to Congress, detailing the administration’s accomplishments, goals, and legislative proposals.
2. Apprentice: A person who is learning a trade or skill through practical experience and on-the-job training.
3. United Brotherhood of Carpenters: A labor union representing carpenters and other construction industry workers.
4. EMS: Abbreviation for emergency medical services, which refers to the treatment and transport of individuals in need of immediate medical care.
5. IVF: Abbreviation for in-vitro fertilization, a medical procedure used to treat infertility by fertilizing an egg with sperm in a laboratory, and then implanting the fertilized egg in the uterus.

Related Links:
White House State of the Union Address
United Brotherhood of Carpenters Official Website
Pittsburgh EMS Website
In-Vitro Fertilization Information
Official Website of the City of Philadelphia