US EditionRepublican Secures Win in Pennsyvlania State House Special Election
Republicans Andrea Verobish and Catherine Wallen won with about 58% and 60% of the vote, narrowing Democrats' majority to 102-100 in the Pennsylvania House.
- On Mar. 17, 2026, Republicans won two Pennsylvania state House special elections, with results reported by the Pennsylvania Department of State.
- Both special elections filled seats opened when Lou Schmitt and Torren Ecker left for judicial roles; Schmitt was elected to the Blair County Court of Common Pleas and Ecker to the Adams County judgeship.
- Turnout was low in both contests, including roughly 23% in the 79th District where Andrea Verobish topped Caleb McCoy with 58%, while Catherine Wallen received 59.5% in the 193rd District with 22% turnout.
- House Republicans celebrated their wins as Democrats still hold control, with Jesse Topper stating, 'Tonight, House Republicans claimed important victories in two open seats, demonstrating the success of our message and the strength of our candidates.'
- Both winners will face the general election rematches this November and are unopposed in May 19, 2026 Republican primaries; candidates must withdraw by March 25.
12 Articles
12 Articles
Despite Dem enthusiasm, PA GOP decisively wins two special election races
ALTOONA, Pa. — A rumor flew across social media last week that a state house seat in Blair County, Pennsylvania, was within grasp of the Democrats, potentially flipping the 79th legislative seat in a late winter special election. Stephen Caruso, a Harrisburg-based Spotlight PA reporter, posted on X last week: “Republicans and Democrats I talk to are increasingly keeping an eye on next Tuesday’s special election in Altoona. One Pennsylvania Democ…
Pennsylvania Capital-Star
Pa. Republicans keep two state House seats in special elections
The Pennsylvania Capitol on Monday, Dec. 22, 2025. (Photo by Peter Hall/Capital-Star)Republicans secured victories in two state House special elections Tuesday night, according to unofficial results from the Pennsylvania Department of State. That leaves partisan control of the chamber unchanged. Democrats will maintain their slim majority with 102 of 203 seats. In the 193rd District, which is made up of Adams and Cumberland counties, Republican …
Republican secures win in Pennsylvania state House special election
Republican Catherine Wallen is projected to defeat Democrat Todd Crawley in a special election for Pennsylvania’s 193rd House District, according to Decision Desk HQ. Wallen is expected to fill the seat vacated by former state Rep. Torren Ecker (R), who resigned in December after he was elected judge on the Adams County Court of Common…
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