The 2025 Political Q&A Series: Kellianne Frketic, Candidate for Allegheny County Council

My office will prioritize government accountability by increasing transparency in legislative and executive decisions. This includes strengthening ethics oversight, ensuring that government records and processes are accessible to the public, and advocating for independent commissions to prevent partisan gerrymandering or unchecked executive authority.

Meet the Candidate

Welcome to the 2025 election season series ‘Political Q&A’ – interviews with candidates throughout Pennsylvania. Since 2013, we’ve published nearly 150 of these interviews. We use an email Q&A format to allow the candidates to speak directly to you, the readers.

Candidates can be anywhere in Pennsylvania running for any level of office. Please note that these are not necessarily endorsements, more of an opportunity for candidates to connect with the LGBTQ community, progressives neighbors, and others with an interest in Pennsylvania. If your candidate would like to participate, contact us pghlesbian at gmail dot com. We welcome candidates at all levels of government across the entire Commonwealth. We publish in the order that they are returned and will accept Q&A’s until Election Day.

Please note that Pennsylvania has over 500 school districts. We’d like to talk with candidates in any one of them. Tell your district’s story statewide.

Important to note that I do not edit the responses, including their framing of LGBTQ identities.

These Q&A’s are lengthy because there is a lot of ground to cover. This year, I created about 20 questions per candidate. This is and should be a deep dive because you deserve as much information as possible.

By participating in this Q&A series, candidates are saying that they

are an LGBTQIA+ ally, specifically supporting equality and dignity for transgender persons
identify as pro-choice

I have not met Kellianne in person, but I have a lot to say about herr campaign. First, this is my childhood and young adult stomping ground so I have a strong interest in the welfare of the Mon Valley. People from the neighborhood still live there, parents of my childhood friends, and former classmates. They are my people, for good and for bad.

Second, I have never yet had a candidate provide such a detailed and thought out plan to address LGBTQ+ community issues in the entire time I’ve been asking. Not even the LGBTQ+ candidate. It isn’t just that Kellianne has a comprehensive understanding, it is that she has put together policy solutions based on what she hears us say. Her responses should be required reading for everyone.

Finally, the Mon Valley has almost always been represented by white cisgender heterosexual men. That’s true locally, at the County level, and Statewide. There have been exceptions, but the ‘old boy network’ has bled down to younger generations and that is not good. Kellianne faces two white cisgender heterosexual men on the ballot. I invited both to participate in this Q&A. One did not respond. The other received his questionnaires on February 18 and will not respond to my inquiries.

That speaks volumes. This is a long Q&A, maybe break it into chunks. But the attention to details about LGBTQ+ issues AND stormwater efforts matters.

Meet the Candidate

Name: Kellianne Frketic

Pronouns: She/Her/Hers

Office Sought in This Election: Allegheny County Council District 9

How do you describe your identity?. I am a heterosexual female.

Tell us about your district. What is a hidden gem most people might not know about? Allegheny County Council District 9 is a diverse and vibrant district that embodies the hardworking spirit of the Mon Valley. It includes historic mill towns, tight-knit neighborhoods, and communities that have long been the backbone of our region’s industry and culture. While many people know about our rich labor history and beautiful parks, one hidden gem is the Great Allegheny Passage (GAP) trail. This scenic trail runs through the district, offering breathtaking views along the Youghiogheny River and connecting our communities to a larger network of outdoor recreation. It’s not just a trail—it’s a symbol of revitalization, bringing tourism, small business opportunities, and a renewed appreciation for our natural spaces.

Competitive primary elections offer several significant benefits to community residents. With typically lower turnout in primaries, each vote carries more weight, allowing residents to have a more substantial impact on selecting candidates who align with their values and priorities. Additionally, competitive primaries encourage a broader range of candidates to run, leading to a more comprehensive debate on issues and ensuring that multiple perspectives are considered. This diversity can result in elected officials who better represent the community’s varied interests.

Questions and Answers

What professional accomplishment gives you the most pride?

In 2022 I went back to school to complete my MBA in Operations and Supply Chain Management from Ohio University. Graduating summa cum laude, highest honors, while working full time as a single mother has been my proudest professional achievement.

Your website “Expanding and enforcing county-wide protections against discrimination based on race, gender, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, and socioeconomic status must be prioritized.” 15 years after establishment, the County doesn’t fund or staff the existing Human Relations Commission, but does request people mail complaint forms through the mail. What substantive changes would you champion to address that priority?

It is clear that the issue of discrimination is one that must be treated with urgency and respect, and I agree with the County’s stated priority to expand and enforce protections against discrimination in all its forms. However, the current lack of funding and staffing for the Human Relations Commission (HRC) is a significant gap in fulfilling that promise. The fact that the County still requests people to mail complaint forms through the mail, rather than providing a more accessible, modern, and efficient system, is a clear indicator that we must make substantive changes.

If elected, I would prioritize the following changes:

1. Re-establish and Fully Fund the Human Relations Commission (HRC): The HRC must be staffed with trained professionals who can respond to complaints in a timely and sensitive manner. Ensuring the HRC is adequately funded and staffed will give it the ability to advocate for residents, investigate complaints, and implement outreach programs effectively.

2. Move to a Digital Complaint System: In today’s world, relying on traditional mail for filing discrimination complaints is outdated. I would push to create an easy-to-use online portal for filing complaints. This would provide a more accessible, efficient, and timely way for people to report issues of discrimination. The portal could also provide resources and educational materials to help prevent discrimination before it happens.

3. Enhance Outreach and Education Programs: One of the key functions of the HRC should be to not only investigate complaints but also to educate the community on their rights. I would advocate for the development of robust outreach programs, especially to vulnerable and underrepresented populations, about the protections in place, the complaint process, and resources available to them.

4. Promote Systemic Change: It’s not just about responding to individual complaints but addressing the root causes of discrimination. I would work toward enacting policies that proactively tackle systemic inequality, including improving hiring practices, supporting inclusive educational curricula, and advancing workplace diversity initiatives.

By making these changes, we would be ensuring that discrimination is addressed in a meaningful, modern, and proactive way, rather than simply reacting to complaints as they arise. The people of our County deserve nothing less than full commitment to protecting their rights, regardless of race, gender, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, or socioeconomic status.

Several of your campaign agenda items rely on federal funding or federal cooperation/partnership, meanwhile the President has already attempted to freeze federal funding that the County relies upon for health care, infrastructure, and more. What’s your Plan B if that funding is slashed?

It’s true that many of the issues we’re facing, from health care to infrastructure, rely heavily on federal funding. However, I am deeply aware that federal support is not guaranteed, especially in light of the current administration’s stance on funding. My plan B would include

1. Diversify Funding Sources: While federal funding is important, we must reduce our reliance on it by exploring alternative funding streams. I would work to increase partnerships with state governments, private sector investments, and non-profit

organizations that align with our County’s priorities. We can also look at potential local revenue streams, such as grants, social impact bonds, or new tax models that support vital services without placing undue burden on residents.

2. Strengthen State-Level Advocacy: While the federal government may be attempting to freeze funding, the state level remains a key area for support. I would work to strengthen our relationship with state agencies to ensure that we are securing as much state-level funding as possible, especially for critical services like healthcare and infrastructure. Advocacy in the state legislature could also help us secure state-based funding programs that are more stable and accessible than federal grants.

3. Building Resilience Through Strategic Planning: Lastly, I believe in the importance of building resilience into every level of government. This means planning for future challenges by setting up emergency funding reserves, conducting stress tests on our budgets, and prioritizing essential services. We must be prepared for disruptions and have contingency plans in place that protect our most vulnerable residents and ensure the continuity of services.

In summary, while federal funding is important, my plan would be to strengthen local capacity, forge new partnerships, and advocate for more sustainable, diversified funding sources. I am committed to ensuring that our County thrives, even if we face federal funding cuts.

Please tell me about your familiarity with the LGBTQ community in Allegheny County.

I have been a longtime advocate for LGBTQ+ rights, attending and supporting events alongside my sister, who is a member of the LGBTQ+ community. I have volunteered with Sisters PGH to help set up for the People’s Pride Parade, ensuring that Pride remains centered on the needs of the queer and trans community, especially Black trans individuals. As Vice President of Three Rivers Democratic Women, I have advocated for LGBTQ+ rights in our endorsements and policy priorities. As well as inviting folks within the LGBTQ+ to join us as guest speakers at our monthly meetings. Within my workplace, I am an active member of the Serving Up Pride ERG (SUP), working to create an inclusive and supportive environment for LGBTQ+ employees. Through our ERG we also support community engagement by volunteering with organizations like Shepard Wellness. As well as hosting other LGBTQ+ events throughout the year at Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank (GPCFB).

Based on this, what do you understand to be our current top LGBTQ concerns and priorities for the Allegheny County Council ? How will you respond to those priorities?

The LGBTQ community in Allegheny County, like many across the country, faces unique challenges, and it’s crucial that our County Council actively listens to those concerns and responds with meaningful action. Based on conversations I’ve had with LGBTQ advocates and community members I understand that the top concerns for the LGBTQ community in Allegheny County right now include:

1. Access to Health Care and Mental Health Services: Many members of the LGBTQ community, particularly transgender and nonbinary individuals, face significant barriers to accessing culturally competent and affordable health care. This includes issues such as discrimination from healthcare providers, lack of mental health services for LGBTQ youth, and limited access to gender-affirming care.

2. Workplace Discrimination and Economic Equity: Despite legal protections in many areas, LGBTQ individuals still face discrimination in the workplace. This includes unfair

treatment in hiring, promotion, and pay, as well as workplace harassment. The economic challenges facing the LGBTQ community are compounded by the higher rates of unemployment, underemployment, and poverty, particularly among transgender people and people of color within the community.

3. Housing Security and Homelessness: LGBTQ youth, especially those who are Black, Brown, or from low-income backgrounds, are at higher risk for homelessness due to family rejection and discrimination. Ensuring that there are LGBTQ-friendly housing options and support systems in place is critical.

4. Safety and Violence Prevention: LGBTQ individuals, particularly transgender women of color, continue to face disproportionate rates of violence, including hate crimes, assault, and harassment. Addressing these safety concerns and ensuring that law enforcement and community organizations are trained to handle LGBTQ-related issues is a top priority.

5. LGBTQ+ Youth Support and Education: Ensuring that LGBTQ+ youth have safe spaces to learn, grow, and thrive is critical. This includes creating more inclusive educational environments, providing support for LGBTQ+ youth in schools, and expanding after-school programs that specifically cater to the needs of LGBTQ+ young people.

In response to these priorities, here’s how I would approach these issues if elected to the County Council:

1. Expand Access to Health Care: I would push for increased funding for LGBTQ-inclusive health services, particularly for mental health support, substance abuse treatment, and gender-affirming care. Partnering with local healthcare providers to ensure they are properly trained to meet the needs of the LGBTQ community is key, and we should look at ways to reduce health disparities through targeted programs.

2. Strengthen Anti-Discrimination Protections: I would advocate for stronger enforcement of anti-discrimination laws at the County level, particularly in housing and employment. This includes working with employers, local businesses, and organizations to promote inclusive practices and diversity training. Ensuring that LGBTQ people can live and work without fear of discrimination is crucial for equality.

3. Address Homelessness and Housing Insecurity: I would work with local shelters, housing organizations, and social services to increase support for LGBTQ individuals who are experiencing homelessness. We need to create more affordable, LGBTQ-friendly housing options, especially for LGBTQ youth who are at risk of being displaced due to rejection by their families.

4. Improve Safety and Support for Victims of Violence: Strengthening policies that protect LGBTQ individuals from violence and harassment, and ensuring law enforcement agencies have proper training on LGBTQ issues, is a priority. This includes advocating for community-led safety programs and improving reporting mechanisms for hate crimes or discrimination.

5. Support LGBTQ Youth and Education: I would advocate for creating more inclusive, safe spaces for LGBTQ youth in schools, including implementing LGBTQ-inclusive curricula, providing counseling services, and creating LGBTQ student groups. Additionally,

ensuring there are resources for families and communities to support LGBTQ youth is critical.

By addressing these concerns head-on, we can create a more inclusive, equitable, and safe environment for all LGBTQ residents in Allegheny County. I’m committed to being a strong advocate for these priorities, working with local organizations, and ensuring that the voices of the LGBTQ community are heard and acted upon in meaningful ways.

Tell us about an underappreciated or little known asset in the Allegheny County government?

An underappreciated asset in Allegheny County government is the Allegheny County Department of Public Works (DPW), specifically its work in stormwater management and infrastructure improvements. While many people may not realize it, DPW plays a crucial role in mitigating flooding, improving water quality, and protecting our local environment.

Their efforts in green infrastructure projects—such as rain gardens, bioswales, and permeable pavement—help manage stormwater runoff, reduce pollution, and prevent flooding in urban areas. DPW also supports efforts to address the aging infrastructure in the county, focusing on improving roads, bridges, and facilities to ensure that they meet the needs of a growing population.

The department’s collaborations with local municipalities to implement sustainable, climate-resilient infrastructure often go unnoticed, but they have long-term positive impacts on the county’s environmental health and overall quality of life. By focusing on projects that balance development with environmental stewardship, DPW is helping to create a more resilient and sustainable Allegheny County.

In Allegheny County’s District 9, every municipality has been actively working with the Department of Public Works (DPW) on green infrastructure projects to address stormwater management and improve environmental sustainability.

These municipalities are working closely with DPW not just to address immediate environmental concerns, but also to plan for long-term sustainability and resilience against the increasing impacts of climate change. By integrating green infrastructure into their infrastructure projects, they’re improving water management, reducing flooding, and supporting a more eco-friendly approach to urban planning.

City of Duquesne – Duquesne has been involved in stormwater management projects that incorporate rain gardens and bioswales to help manage runoff and reduce flooding. The city’s collaboration with DPW focuses on improving the quality of water runoff and increasing green space in urban areas.

City of McKeesport – McKeesport is working to implement green infrastructure strategies, including permeable pavements, rain gardens, and vegetative swales. Their goal is to address stormwater runoff and improve environmental quality while reducing flooding risks in urban neighborhoods.

Dravosburg Borough – Dravosburg has focused on upgrading its stormwater management infrastructure by incorporating green infrastructure solutions such as vegetated swales and rainwater harvesting systems. The town’s initiatives are aimed at managing runoff and promoting water conservation.

Elizabeth Borough – Elizabeth has been engaged in stormwater retention projects, including bioswales and rain gardens, in collaboration with DPW to better manage runoff and improve the local water quality. The borough is working on sustainability and flood prevention efforts.

Elizabeth Township – Elizabeth Township has partnered with DPW to implement green infrastructure strategies, including green roofs and permeable surfaces that improve water absorption and reduce stormwater runoff, helping to mitigate flooding and environmental degradation.

Forward Township – Forward Township has been taking part in stormwater management projects, including creating vegetated swales and expanding green spaces. They are focused on enhancing the community’s resilience to flooding and improving water quality in local waterways.

Glassport Borough – Glassport is actively working on stormwater control measures, including the development of rain gardens and infiltration trenches. Their goal is to help address runoff issues and improve stormwater management within the community.

Liberty Borough – Liberty has been focusing on stormwater management and green infrastructure techniques like permeable pavements and bio-retention areas to manage runoff, reduce flooding, and support a more sustainable environment.

Lincoln Borough – Lincoln Borough is collaborating on green infrastructure solutions to manage stormwater runoff, such as vegetated swales and rain gardens. Their efforts are designed to improve water quality and reduce flood risk in the borough.

Munhall Borough – Munhall has undertaken a number of green infrastructure initiatives, including rain gardens and vegetated buffers, to help manage stormwater runoff and improve water quality in its local waterways.

Port Vue Borough – Port Vue has focused on implementing stormwater management projects, including permeable pavements and rain gardens, in an effort to manage water flow, reduce urban runoff, and enhance local environmental conditions.

South Versailles Township – South Versailles is working with DPW on green infrastructure projects such as rainwater harvesting systems and bioswales to manage stormwater runoff and improve water conservation efforts.

Versailles Borough – Versailles has initiated green infrastructure solutions, including the development of rain gardens and vegetated swales, to help address stormwater runoff and improve water quality in the community.

West Elizabeth Borough – West Elizabeth is focusing on green infrastructure projects, such as rain gardens and bioswales, to manage stormwater and reduce flooding risks, while promoting sustainability and improving local water quality.

West Mifflin Borough – West Mifflin is involved in stormwater management efforts, including rain gardens and green streets, to improve water quality, reduce flooding, and mitigate the impact of climate change on the community.

Whitaker Borough – Whitaker has been focusing on green infrastructure projects, such as vegetated swales and rain gardens, to manage stormwater and reduce the environmental impact of runoff.

White Oak Borough – White Oak has been implementing green infrastructure solutions, such as rain gardens, bioswales, and permeable surfaces, in an effort to better manage stormwater runoff and promote environmental sustainability.

These municipalities in District 9 are proactively working with the Department of Public Works (DPW) to incorporate green infrastructure solutions that focus on sustainable stormwater management, flood mitigation, and environmental health. Their efforts help protect the community’s water resources while also enhancing resilience to climate change

I grew up in the Mon Valley (West Mifflin) and from 1999-2001, worked for a local nonprofit as a community organizer. We did conduct an assessment of job programs as well as aggressively promote the trades in partnership with CCAC and other spaces. That was 25 years ago, but it feels lilke the same conversation. What’s different about your vision?

You’re absolutely right that the conversation about jobs and the trades has been ongoing for decades, and it’s frustrating that, in many ways, we’re still facing the same challenges today. But my vision for the future is built on a few key differences: innovation, adaptability, and long-term investment.

1. Adapting to the Changing Workforce: While promoting the trades was vital 25 years ago, today’s workforce requires more than just traditional trades. We need to be thinking about how to incorporate new technologies, green energy industries, and emerging sectors. We’re seeing a rise in demand for tech workers, clean energy jobs, and positions that require not only technical skills but also digital literacy. My vision is to expand our workforce development programs to ensure people are equipped not just for today’s economy, but for the economy of the future. That means creating partnerships with institutions like CCAC, universities, and tech bootcamps to prepare workers for industries like renewable energy, IT, and manufacturing automation.

2. Focus on Equity and Inclusion: One major difference in my approach is ensuring that job programs are accessible to everyone in the community, especially marginalized groups. Historically, some communities in the Mon Valley and beyond have faced systemic barriers to education and employment and not every child has been afforded the same opportunities. My plan includes making sure that job programs are specifically designed to reach underserved populations, including people of color, women, LGBTQ individuals, and those returning from incarceration. We must actively dismantle those barriers and ensure that training and job opportunities are available to all.

3. Long-term Career Pathways and Support: It’s important that job training programs go beyond just placement and focus on long-term career development. That includes mentorship, apprenticeship programs, and clear pathways to advancement. I want to ensure that the people we’re training aren’t just finding temporary work but are entering careers that provide stability, opportunities for growth, and upward mobility. This means investing in wraparound services like childcare, transportation, and flexible scheduling to make sure people can stay in their jobs and succeed long-term.

4. Sustainable, Community-Led Solutions: Lastly, my vision is rooted in a more sustainable and community-driven approach. We need to empower local communities to take the lead on solutions and ensure that programs are tailored to the unique needs of each neighborhood. This means more localized, collaborative efforts where residents, nonprofits, businesses, and local governments all have a seat at the table.

In short, while the conversation around jobs and the trades is not new, my vision is about embracing the changes in the workforce and economy, making those opportunities accessible and sustainable for everyone, and working toward long-term, community-led solutions. I want to build on the work that’s been done and take it further, adapting it to the needs of today and tomorrow’s workers.

In about 70% of Pennsylvania, it is legal to discriminate against people based on gender identity and sexual orientation – to fire us, to refuse to rent to us, even to deny to serve us in a business. The few protections we have come from municipal ordinances, court rulings, and executive decisions none of which carry the weight of legislative action by the General Assembly. Name three things your office will do to address the fallout of this legalized bigotry?

1. Push for Statewide Nondiscrimination Protections

My office will advocate for the passage of comprehensive statewide nondiscrimination legislation that explicitly protects LGBTQ+ individuals from discrimination in employment, housing, and public accommodations. This includes working with legislators, mobilizing public support, and ensuring that Pennsylvania joins the 23 other states that already provide these protections.

2. Strengthen Enforcement of Existing Protections

Even without full legislative action, my office will ensure that existing municipal ordinances and court rulings protecting LGBTQ+ rights are enforced. This means working with local governments, businesses, and advocacy groups to educate the public about these rights and holding violators accountable.

3. Support and Expand LGBTQ+ Resources

Discrimination has real economic and social consequences. My office will work to expand legal aid, employment programs, and housing assistance for LGBTQ+ individuals who face discrimination. We will also collaborate with community organizations to provide training and resources that foster inclusivity in workplaces and public spaces.

What have you personally and professionally done to protect trans kids? .

I am deeply committed to protecting trans kids, both personally and professionally. Through my role as Vice President of Three Rivers Democratic Women, I’ve volunteered with Sisters PGH at their PRIDE parade and community event, and I’ve been a strong advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and equality. In my position at the Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank, I am part of the Serving Up Pride ERG, where we’ve hosted a speaker from Hugh Lane Wellness to discuss pronouns and create a more inclusive environment. I celebrated Trans Day of Visibility by sharing by amplifying support through social media and attending a Drag Brunch Fundraiser.

Additionally, I am honored to be the endorsed candidate of Steel City Stonewall Democrats. I’m proud to stand up for trans youth and to advocate for policies that ensure their safety, dignity, and the ability to thrive in an environment free from discrimination.

Every school kid learns that we have three branches of government – executive, legislative, and judicial. We also have three levels of government – local, state, and federal. Democracy is supposed to rest at the intersections of these branches and levels. Those intersections also include people – citizens, residents, voters, workers, neighbors. It can be overwhelming when the balance of power is heavily tilted in one direction. What three specifically actions will you take to address this imbalance from your office?

1. Expand Civic Engagement and Voter Access

My office will work to increase voter participation by advocating for policies like automatic voter registration, expanded early voting, and protection against voter suppression tactics. A democracy functions best when all voices are heard, and we must ensure that every eligible voter can easily and confidently participate in the electoral process.

2. Strengthen Local Government and Community Representation

Too often, decision-making is concentrated at the state or federal level, leaving local governments underfunded and powerless. I will push for policies that empower municipalities with greater authority over issues directly affecting their residents, ensuring that community voices play a stronger role in shaping their own future.

3. Hold Power Accountable Through Transparency and Oversight

14. What excites you about serving on County Council?

What excites me most about serving on County Council is the opportunity to make a real, lasting impact on my community. Growing up in the Mon Valley and working in local advocacy has given me a deep understanding of the challenges facing working families, underserved populations, and communities of color. I am eager to bring that perspective to the table, to fight for policies that prioritize people over profits, and to ensure that every voice is heard in the decision-making process.

I’m excited to use my experience—whether as a working class single mother, an advocate for economic justice, or as a leader with Three Rivers Democratic Women and other local organizations—to champion policies that protect the environment, improve public health, and expand access to social services. I’m also passionate about promoting equity and inclusion, especially when it comes to ensuring that marginalized communities have a seat at the table in shaping their futures.

Serving on County Council offers the chance to help push forward progressive changes that can create a more sustainable, equitable, and healthy Allegheny County, and I’m thrilled to be a part of that effort.

The political world has turned upside down. In what unique way can local municipal governments like Allegheny County lead us forward?

Local municipal governments are closest to the people, making them uniquely positioned to lead in ways that state and federal governments often fail to. Allegheny County can take bold action in three key areas:

1. Protecting Rights and Expanding Protections

While state and federal protections may be uncertain, Allegheny County can lead by enacting and enforcing strong local policies on worker protections, LGBTQ+ rights, environmental regulations, and criminal justice reform. Municipalities have the power to set a standard for inclusivity and fairness, ensuring all residents are treated with dignity. 2. Innovating in Economic and Environmental Policy

The future of jobs, infrastructure, and sustainability starts locally. Allegheny County can invest in green energy initiatives, support small businesses, and implement workforce development programs that prepare residents for the jobs of tomorrow. Local governments can move faster than state and federal agencies, creating real change in people’s daily lives.

3. Strengthening Democracy and Civic Engagement

With trust in government at an all-time low, Allegheny County can set an example by increasing transparency, expanding participatory budgeting, and making it easier for residents to engage in decision-making. When local leaders listen and respond directly to their communities, they rebuild faith in democracy from the ground up.

In a time of political chaos, real leadership comes from those willing to act where others stall. Allegheny County has the ability—and the responsibility—to lead the way forward.

There’s a clear need to actively create space for women, especially Black women and other women of color, in elected office AND on campaign and legislative staffs. These are issues of representation and realities. Tell us about your campaign team.

Representation and inclusion are core values of our campaign. While our team is currently an all-volunteer effort with a small but dedicated group we recognize the importance of building a campaign that reflects the diversity of the community we seek to serve. As we continue to grow, we are committed to actively creating space for women, and minorities, to take leadership roles in our campaign.

How do competitive primary elections benefit the residents of a community?

Why did you agree to complete this Q&A?

I agreed to complete this Q&A because I want to ensure my values and priorities are clear to voters. It’s important to me that people understand why I’m running and how my personal experiences, like supporting my younger sister and her community, shape my approach to policy and advocacy. I’m committed to being a strong, authentic ally and representing the voices of those who often feel left behind. This Q&A gives me the chance to share my vision for an inclusive and equitable Allegheny County where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.

Endorsements, Socials and Summary

Tell us about your endorsements.

Steel City Stonewall Democrats

Working Families Party

Young Democrats of Allegheny County

Please list your social media accounts and your donation links.

Instagram- kellianne4council

Facebook- Kellianne Frketic for Allegheny Council

Website- kellianne4council.com

Actblue- https://secure.actblue.com/donate/frketicweb

Is there anything else you’d like to add?

I want to emphasize that this campaign is about more than just me—it’s about all of us. It’s about building an Allegheny County where everyone, regardless of background, has the opportunity to thrive. I’ve always believed in the power of community and the importance of lifting up marginalized voices, especially those that have been overlooked or silenced for far too long. If elected, I promise to not just represent you, but to actively engage in every step of the way. Together, we will build a future where our communities are healthier, more inclusive, and more equitable.It’s not just about policies, but about people. Thank you for taking the time to read my Q&A.

Thank you, Kellianne

However, the current lack of funding and staffing for the Human Relations Commission (HRC) is a significant gap in fulfilling that promise. The fact that the County still requests people to mail complaint forms through the mail, rather than providing a more accessible, modern, and efficient system, is a clear indicator that we must make substantive changes.

Other Q&A’s

Other Q&A’s in this election cycle series. You can read previous cycle Q&A’s here. If your candidate would like to participate, please contact us pghlesbian at gmail dot com.

The 2025 Political Q&A Series: Lauren Leiggi, Candidate for Allegheny County Court of Common Pleas

The 2025 Political Q&A Series: Judge Alyssa Cowan, Candidate for Allegheny County Court of Common Pleas

The 2025 Political Q&A Series: Amy Mathieu, Candidate for Allegheny County Court of Common Pleas

The 2025 Political Q&A Series: Amanda Green-Hawkins, Candidate for Allegheny County Court of Common Pleas

The 2025 Political Q&A Series: Judge Hilary Wheatley, Candidate for Allegheny County Court of Common Pleas

The 2025 Political Q&A Series: Matt Rudzki, Candidate for Allegheny County Court of Common Pleas

The 2025 Political Q&A Series: Amy Bridges, Candidate for New Castle School Director

The 2025 Political Q&A Series: Sarra Terry, Candidate for Allegheny Court of Common Pleas

The 2025 Political Q&A Series: Eva Diodati Candidate for Pittsburgh Public School Board District 7

The 2025 Political Q&A Series: Amanda Neatrour for Pittsburgh City Council, District Two

The 2025 Political Q&A Series: Kathleen Madonna-Emmerling, Candidate For Allegheny County Council

The 2025 Political Q&A Series: Lissa Geiger Shulman Candidate For Allegheny County Council