Robert F. Costello III, a Republican from Montgomery County, is running for the District 12 seat in the Pennsylvania state Senate. The general election is Nov. 3, 2026.

District 12 represents parts of Montgomery County in Harrisburg. The race puts Costello against Maria Collett, the Democratic candidate, for a seat that covers communities in the area this outlet serves. Costello describes himself as a lifelong Montgomery County resident and community advocate, according to his campaign Facebook page. He is certified for the ballot, according to BallotReady election data.

Candidate information

  • Name: Robert F. Costello III
  • Party: Republican
  • Office sought: Pennsylvania state Senate, District 12
  • Election date: Nov. 3, 2026
  • Residence: Montgomery County (lifelong, according to the candidate)

Experience and public service

Costello has worked as a special education teacher, according to BallotReady profile data. His campaign materials also describe him as a community advocate. No additional employment history or public service record appears in available public sources.

On the issues

Costello's stated priorities come from his campaign social media accounts. All positions below are the candidate's own claims. He has not provided detailed proposals, specific legislation or funding plans on any of these topics.

Cost of living and education: Costello said he wants to lower costs for residents and strengthen schools, according to his campaign Facebook page. He has not specified which costs he would target or what school policies he would pursue.

Fiscal responsibility and government accountability: Costello listed six broad priorities in a Montgomery County GOP Instagram post: reducing regulations, replacing crumbling infrastructure, supporting law enforcement, investing in education, restoring fiscal responsibility, and increasing government accountability. He has not detailed how he would fund or implement those goals.

Endorsements

Costello has received the following endorsement, according to a Pennsylvania Senate Republican Campaign Committee Facebook post:

  • Pennsylvania Senate Republican Campaign Committee

Voters in District 12 can check their registration and find polling locations through the Montgomery County Board of Elections.

Editor's note: Costello has not returned the Whitemarsh-Plymouth News candidate questionnaire. This profile is based on publicly available campaign materials and election data. The candidate is invited to contact the newsroom to provide additional information.