PA Senate Primary: Erie

In the waning days until the primary, PoliticsPA takes a look at the contenders for the Democratic nomination in the 49th Senate District.

ERIE COUNTY

49th State Senate District
Selena King (D) vs. Jim Wertz (D)

The two candidates are vying for the nomination to compete against two-term incumbent Republican Dan Laughlin in the fall.

Selena King

• Party. Democrat
• Residence. Erie
• Experience. U.S. Senate NW Regional representative. Former county and state government employee. 
• Top Priorities. Guarantee that every child, no matter where they live, has access to unparalleled educational opportunities. Expand access to affordable healthcare, emphasizing mental health services and women’s rights. Create an Erie County where everyone has the opportunity to prosper.
• Quotable. “I’m running for State Senate because Erie families deserve a champion. This campaign will be your campaign as much as it is mine.”
• Education. B.S, Gannon University.
• Links: Website | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Vote411 Voter Guide 
• Campaign Finance Report (from 3/4/2024 thru 4/8/2024)
  • Raised: $19,710.00 | Spent: $15,079.37 | Cash On Hand: $11,014.64

Jim Wertz

• Party. Democrat
• Residence. Erie.
• Experience. Educator. Chair, Erie County Democratic Party.
• Top Priorities. Oppose all voter suppression and hold those who undermine our democracy accountable. Committed to a constitutional amendment that protects the right to choose. Access to higher education, including the Erie County Community College, trade schools, and union apprenticeships expands professional opportunities and strengthens our workforce.
• Endorsements. U.S. Rep. Matt Cartwright. Former PA Democratic Party chair Nancy Patton Mills.
• Quotable. “I’m running for State Senate because our democracy matters, public education matters, and working families matter. Republicans in Harrisburg have shown they can’t be trusted to fight for our country, our schools, or the rights of workers to earn a living wage.”
• Education. B.A, Edinboro University; M.A, American University; Ph.D., Indiana University of Pennsylvania
• Links: Website | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Vote411 Voter Guide 
• Campaign Finance Report (from 1/1/2024 thru 3/31/2024)
  • Raised: $73,028.25 | Spent: $128,181.13 | Cash On Hand: $34,554.74