James Malone Projected to Win Pennsylvania Senate Seat in District 36

James Andrew Malone, the East Petersburg Mayor, is projected to win the Pennsylvania Senate seat for District 36, prompting celebrations from Democrats despite the district’s Republican majority. Governor Josh Shapiro commented on the election’s significance, emphasizing a rejection of divisiveness, while Josh Parsons voiced disappointment after his loss.

Following a special election in Lancaster County, Mayor James Andrew Malone appears to have won the open Pennsylvania Senate Seat for District 36. This seat became vacant after Senator Ryan Aument transitioned to join U.S. Senator Dave McCormick’s office. Democrats are celebrating this victory as a significant win in an area previously dominated by Republican votes.

Governor Josh Shapiro shared his thoughts on the election results, stating, “Tonight in Lancaster County, Pennsylvanians rejected a candidate who embraced the extremism and division coming out of DC. In a district carried comfortably by Donald Trump just a few months ago, they chose a better way forward – an embrace of competence, commonsense, and a desire to bring people together.”

The election results may seem surprising, given that District 36 has a voter registration of 53 percent Republican and approximately 30 percent Democrat, with the remainder being unaffiliated or from minor parties. The unexpected outcome is likely due to a low voter turnout, which was below 30 percent. In past elections, such as in 2024, Dave McCormick garnered 56 percent of votes to defeat Democratic Senator Bob Casey, and Trump secured 57 percent in the district.

Josh Parsons, the Republican candidate, commented on the defeat through X (formerly Twitter), stating, “Obviously we are disappointed in the numbers. We are still reviewing them, but it appears we will come up a little short. We will have a further statement tomorrow. We appreciate all those who worked hard, supported our campaign, and came out to vote today.”

The election for the Pennsylvania Senate seat in District 36 was surprisingly won by Democratic candidate James Andrew Malone. Governor Josh Shapiro’s statement emphasized a rejection of divisive politics, highlighting the need for collaboration and competence. Despite a Republican majority in voter registration, low turnout impacted results, leading to an unexpected victory. Republican candidate Josh Parsons expressed disappointment following the loss, indicating a continued evaluation of the election outcome.

Original Source: local21news.com