Ben Waxman is a Democratic representative for Pennsylvania's 182nd Legislative District, which covers Center City and parts of South Philadelphia. A journalist, progressive activist, and organizer, he was elected in November 2022, winning the Democratic nomination with 41% in a four-way primary and the general election with 89% of the vote. Notable achievements include advocating for public transit funding, cryptocurrency consumer protections, prison reform, support for University of the Arts students after its closure leading to higher education reforms, and expanding grants to prevent hate crimes. He serves on the Appropriations, Communications & Technology, Finance, Housing and Community Development, and State Government Committees, and as Subcommittee Chair on Intergovernmental Affairs for the Philadelphia House Delegation. Waxman also champions fair public education funding, SEPTA expansion, reproductive healthcare access, and minimum wage increases.

Education and Political Experience

Waxman's professional background includes work as an editorial writer for The Philadelphia Daily News, reporter for WHYY-FM, and political aide to State Senator Vincent Hughes and Philadelphia District Attorney Larry Krasner. A 15-year Center City resident, he has served on the boards of the Center City Residents Association, Pennsylvanians for Alternatives to the Death Penalty, Jewish Labor Committee, and the 8th Ward Democratic Executive Committee.