BUTLER COUNTY, Pa. (WHP) — Pennsylvania democrats are claiming victory in Butler County’s special election Tuesday night with a win secured in the State House, a position formerly held by the GOP for nearly 30 years.
Brandon Dukes is leading in the unofficial results for the state’s 12th District by less than 100 votes.
He ran against Republican Scott Timko, after former Rep Stephanie Scialabba resigned earlier this year.
Before Scialabba, Daryl Metcalfe held the house seat.
If the results stand, the win would give PA house democrats a two seat majority in the chamber until November.
Governor Josh Shapiro commented on the race:
Chairman of the PA Democratic Party, Eugene DePasquale also issued a statement.
“Tonight’s result not only shows what can be accomplished when Democrats are willing to fight everywhere, but it sets the stage for this November’s midterm elections. Pennsylvanians across the political spectrum are sick and tired of Republicans’ chaotic, corrupt, and cost-raising agenda — and they’re ready to reject them at the polls and elect Democrats up and down the ballot in historic fashion.“
Historically, the District 12 seat favored President Trump by more than 18%.