Franklin County Free Press
November 20, 2025
Manheim Township Republican Commissioner Mary Jo Huyard, a longtime community leader, small-business owner and mother of four, announced today she would seek her party’s nomination for Lancaster County’s 36th State Senatorial District.
“Lancaster County values have shaped my life. Fiscal responsibility, a commitment to personal liberty, and an appreciation of American ideals rooted in the soil and history of our region, all deserve a voice in Harrisburg,” she said.
One of nine children raised on a family dairy farm, Huyard learned early the importance of responsibility, discipline, and teamwork – principles she carried into her years as a small-business owner and later into public office. As a Manheim Township Commissioner, she prioritized public safety and supporting first responders by voting to eliminate a controversial police advisory board, creating a new traffic safety unit, supporting fire-fighters and transitioning Emergency Medical Services into a first of its kind public-private partnership in Lancaster County between the Manheim Township Fire Department and a private health-care provider.
Huyard has promised to employ the same practical, conservative community-first leadership style as Lancaster County’s next state senator.
The 36th District, long represented by former State Senator Ryan Aument, experienced a shift in leadership when a liberal Democrat pulled off a surprise victory in a special election for the seat Aument vacated. District residents have since sought a leader who reflects the area’s traditional values and conservative priorities. Republicans are seeking a nominee who can win in November.
“From the farm to the business world to local government, I’ve learned that effective, commonsense leadership isn’t complicated. It’s about hard work, humility, caring, and doing what’s right — even when it’s not easy,” Huyard said. “Our community deserves a voice in Harrisburg who understands those principles and will fight every day to protect our freedoms, be an advocate for our children, strengthen our economy, and keep Lancaster County strong.”
