Lower Makefield’s Valerie Mihalek has announced her decision to run as a Republican in a primary bid against incumbent Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick and lawyer Dean Malik.
Mihalek, a wife and mother, currently serves as program director for the 9/11 Memorial at the Garden of Reflection. Her work for the memorial grounds has produced September 11th anniversary events, as well as the most recent ‘Candlelight Vigil’ for the children of the Sandy Hook shootings and the 2017 ‘Night of Healing’ after four men were murdered in Solebury.
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According to a press release, Mihalek began serving her community at a young age, focusing her work primarily on Americans in immediate need who feel that their voices have not been heard.
Mihalek, who holds a Master’s degree in liberal studies and school administration and a bachelor’s degree in elementary education, began her professional career in administrative capacities, working for Fortune 500 companies including Estee Lauder, Dino DeLaurentiis, MGM/UA , and the Katherine Gibbs School.
Mihalek then served as an elementary school educator for nine years while volunteering her after-hours time developing a performing arts program for students.
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In 2003, Mihalek was elected to Borough Council in Yardley Borough where she served as vice chairperson before working with former Congressman Mike Fitzpatrick’s office as deputy district director.
Mihalek’s volunteer work, according to a release, has led to her securing the $750,000 federal grant needed to complete the Garden of Reflection memorial.
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As the wife of a veteran and law enforcement officer, she has had involvement in charities that support and honor both groups,including Honor Flight and Warriors Watch.
Mihalek’s father suffered from Parkinson’s Disease so she continues to assist, direct, and advocate for terminally ill American’s rights from Harrisburg to Washington D.C. She coordinated the first ever Right to Try Rally on Capitol Hill and has personally arranged for terminally ill Americans to meet with lawmakers, the Department of Health and Human Services officials, U.S. Senators, Congressmen and Vice President Mike Pence and President Donald Trump.
Mihalek released a video on her campaign Facebook page. In the video Mihalek speaks of her service to the community and has several area residents speak of how she has assisted them.
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“I will listen to the residents of this district and fight for them. I will represent this district the same way I live my life, with integrity,” Mihalek said in a video.
Mihalek has not yet spoke about her stance on issues and how they will impact the Eighth Congressional District.
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Editor/Publisher Tom Sofield contributed to this report.
