In the final days before the primary elections, PoliticsPA is taking a look at the candidates for the Democratic nomination in the 49th Senate District.
Erie County
49th State Senate District
Selena King (D) vs. Jim Wertz (D)
Both candidates are competing for the nomination against a two-term Republican incumbent And Laughlin autumn.
Selena King
- Party. Democrat
- Residence. Erie
- Experience. U.S. Senate Regional Representative for the Northwest. Former county and state government employee.
- Top priorities. Ensure that every child, no matter where they live, has access to unrivaled educational opportunities. Increase access to affordable health care, emphasizing mental health services and women’s rights. Create an Erie County where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
- Quotable. “I’m running for state Senate because Erie families deserve a champion. This campaign will be your campaign as well as mine.”
- Education. BS, Gannon University.
- Cufflinks: Website | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Vote411 Voter Guide
- Campaign financial report (from 3/04/2024 to 4/08/2024)
- Raised: $19,710.00 | Spent: $15,079.37 | Cash on hand: $11,014.64
Jim Wertz
- Party. Democrat
- Residence. Erie.
- Experience. Pedagogue. Chairman of the Erie County Democratic Party.
- Top priorities. Oppose all voter suppression and hold accountable those who undermine our democracy. Committed to amending the constitution that protects the right to choose. Access to higher education, including Erie County Community College, trade schools and apprenticeships, expands career opportunities and strengthens our workforce.
- Confirmations. US Representative Matt Cartwright. Former PA Democratic Party Chairwoman Nancy Patton Mills.
- Quotable. “I’m running for state Senate because our democracy, public education and working families matter. Republicans in Harrisburg have shown they cannot be trusted to fight for our country, our schools or workers’ rights to a living wage.”
- Education. B.A., Edinboro University; M.A. from American University; PhD from Indiana University of Pennsylvania
- Cufflinks: Website | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Vote411 Voter Guide
- Campaign financial report (from January 1, 2024 to March 31, 2024)
- Raised: $73,028.25 | Spent: $128,181.13 | Cash on hand: $34,554.74
