On Episode 30 of The Right Side of the Rivers, Todd McCollum and Russell Dryer welcome Libby Blackburn, Republican candidate for Pennsylvania’s 30th House District.

Libby shares how she stepped into the race following the disqualification of the original Republican candidate and discusses the experience she brings after more than 14 years of service on the North Allegheny School Board. A lifelong resident of the area, longtime community volunteer, former airline employee, and small business owner, Libby explains why she wants to take her record of public service to Harrisburg.

The conversation covers some of the biggest issues facing families in northern Allegheny County, including affordability, rising energy and utility costs, education funding, responsible government spending, property reassessments, and protecting taxpayers. Libby also discusses her approach to working across party lines, her commitment to fiscal responsibility, and why she believes Pennsylvania needs a fairer education funding formula.

The group also takes a broader look at the upcoming Allegheny County property reassessment, the importance of local elections and voter participation, Pittsburgh’s economic challenges, and the region’s continued leadership in healthcare, robotics, and emerging technology.

Plus, hear how Libby earned approximately 2,700 write-in votes to secure her place on the November ballot and why she believes Republicans, independents, and like-minded Democrats can make the difference in the 30th District.

Special Guest: Libby Blackburn.

In this episode of The Right Side of the Rivers, hosts Todd McCollum and Russell Dryer welcome Tim McCune, candidate for Pennsylvania’s 36th Legislative District, for a conversation about his background, why he decided to run for office, and the concerns he is hearing from residents across Pittsburgh’s southern neighborhoods and Brentwood. Tim discusses his years of service as a volunteer firefighter, his community and nonprofit work, and his focus on public safety, taxes, affordability, and making sure elected officials remain connected to the people they represent.

The conversation also explores several issues impacting Pittsburgh and Allegheny County, including new health-monitoring technology at the Allegheny County Jail, concerns surrounding the county pension fund, economic development and data centers, and the potential burden of additional taxes on local residents. The episode rounds out with discussion of local innovation and technology, Pittsburgh’s connection to space exploration, and RCAC's upcoming event commemorating America 250 and the 25th anniversary of September 11.

Special Guest: Tim McCune.

In this episode of The Right Side of the Rivers, hosts Todd McCollum and Russell Dryer welcome Pennsylvania State Representative Valerie Gaydos for a conversation about her path from the private sector to the Pennsylvania House of Representatives and the issues shaping Western Pennsylvania. Drawing on her background in technology, entrepreneurship, and small business, Gaydos discusses economic development, healthcare affordability, advanced manufacturing, artificial intelligence, and the opportunities created by the Pittsburgh International Airport corridor.

The discussion also explores the state budget, government spending, public safety, criminal justice reform, and a recent legislative debate over sentencing laws in Harrisburg. The episode wraps with a look at grassroots campaigning, voter engagement, the importance of electing leaders with real-world business experience, and the recent visit by the Union Pacific "Big Boy" locomotive as part of America's 250th anniversary celebration.

Special Guest: Valerie Gaydos.