HARRISBURG, PA — Pennsylvania Democrats moved swiftly to shore up their narrow House majority Saturday, unveiling candidates for two pivotal special elections that could shape the balance of power in Harrisburg.
The Pennsylvania House Democratic Campaign Committee announced Julian Guridy as its nominee in the 22nd House District in Lehigh County and Jen Mazzocco as its candidate in the 42nd House District in Allegheny County. Both races are set for February 24, contests party leaders are framing as critical to maintaining Democratic control of the chamber.
Guridy brings government and business experience to the Lehigh County race. He previously served as a constituent representative for State Sen. Nick Miller and sits on the board of the Allentown Area Chamber of Commerce. He also serves on the Hispanic Chamber of the Lehigh Valley, roles Democrats say position him to focus on economic and community issues. Guridy has said his priorities include expanding access to affordable housing, boosting economic development, and increasing investment in education and public safety.
In Allegheny County, Democrats tapped Mazzocco, a longtime educator and local elected official with deep roots in public service. She has taught for more than 14 years at Allderdice High School, is active in the Pittsburgh Federation of Teachers, and currently serves as president of Dormont Borough Council. Her background also includes work as a union leader and community organizer. Mazzocco has emphasized policies aimed at easing cost pressures on working families and improving affordability across the region.
Democratic leaders cast both candidates as practical, service-oriented choices at a moment when control of the House remains closely contested.
In a statement, PA HDCC leadership said the committee is fully committed to supporting Guridy and Mazzocco and praised their focus on what it described as commonsense leadership and public service. Party officials said the February 24 elections will be decisive as Democrats seek to protect their slim majority.
The special elections are expected to draw heightened attention from both parties, with turnout and local engagement likely to play an outsized role in determining whether Democrats can hold their edge in the state House.
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