Election 2026: Democrat Melissa Cerrato For State Representative

Candidates running in the Nov. 3 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.

HORSHAM TOWNSHIP, PA —State Rep. Melissa Cerrato is running for re-election as a Democrat for state representative in the 151st Legislative District against Republican Allen Anderson in the Nov. 3 general election.

Biographical Information

Name: Melissa "Missy" Cerrato

Age: 44

Town of residence: Horsham Township

Position sought: State Representative, 151st Legislative District

Are you an incumbent? Yes

What Towns Does Your Position Cover? Horsham Township Ambler Borough, and portions of Upper Dublin Township, and Montgomery Township

Party affiliation: Democrat

Family: Married mother of four daughters

Education: Some College

Occupation: State Representative. Previously served as a legislative district director, a home care aide and a childcare provider.

Candidate Questions

1. What is your stance on data centers in your district?

Right now, we don't have any data centers being proposed in the 151st District, but it's definitely an issue I'm paying close attention to.

Technology is changing fast, and data centers are becoming a bigger part of our economy. They can bring jobs, investment, and tax revenue, which are all good things but they can also use tremendous amounts of electricity and water, and that raises some serious concerns.

My biggest concern is making sure our residents aren't the ones stuck paying for it. Families and small businesses are already struggling with rising utility bills, and the last thing we need is to make those costs even higher.

That's actually why I introduced House Bill 2429, which passed the House. As a member of the House Energy Committee, I believe we need more transparency about what our electrical grid can realistically handle before adding major developments.

So while this is not a subject that will be directly impacting the 151^st I will continue to work with my colleagues to ensure that regulations are put in place to build responsibly throughout the Commonwealth.

2. What would be the best plan for the redevelopment of the former Willow Grove Navy Base?

The redevelopment of the former Willow Grove Naval Air Station is a huge opportunity for Horsham, and with more than 860 acres involved, we have one chance to get this right.

First and foremost, we need to continue addressing the environmental contamination and holding the federal government accountable for the cleanup. Our community has already dealt with far too much when it comes to PFAS contamination, and protecting our drinking water and public health has to remain a priority.

As for what eventually gets built there, those decisions will be made at the local level, not by me as a state representative. I believe Horsham Township and the community should be driving that conversation, making sure any redevelopment reflects what residents actually want and need while considering things like traffic, infrastructure, housing, jobs, and open space.

My role is to be a strong partner throughout that process. Whether it's helping secure state funding, advocating for infrastructure improvements, or making sure our community's concerns are heard, I'll be there to support the township every step of the way.

At the end of the day, this is Horsham's future, and I believe the people of Horsham should have the strongest voice in shaping it.

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

I think one of the biggest issues facing our district right now is affordability. Whether I'm talking to young adults, working families, or seniors on fixed incomes, I keep hearing the same thing. Everything is just getting too expensive.

I recently spoke with students at Montgomery County Community College and asked what was impacting their lives the most. Their top concerns were gas prices, utilities, housing, college costs, and public transportation. It really reinforced that people of all ages are struggling with many of the same challenges.

Infrastructure is another big concern. From aging water and sewer systems to traffic congestion and stormwater management, we need to make smart investments now that will protect our communities and save taxpayers money in the long run.

At the end of the day, people want to be able to afford their bills, raise their families, feel safe in their communities, and have opportunities for the future. These aren't unreasonable expectations, and I believe it's our responsibility as elected officials to make them a priority.