Democrats are celebrating big wins after a special election in Pennsylvania on Tuesday, where they secured a narrow majority in the state House and flipped a Republican-held state Senate seat.
Dan Goughnour, a Democrat, won his race in a district southwest of Pittsburgh by about 28 points.
The seat was previously held by state Rep. Matthew Gergely, another Democrat, who passed away in January. Goughnour’s victory gives Democrats a 102-101 majority in the state House.
In another key race, Democrat James Malone won a special state Senate election to replace Republican state Sen. Ryan Aument, who resigned to work for U.S. Sen.
Dave McCormick. Malone’s win is especially significant since the district in northwest Lancaster supported Donald Trump by 15 points in 2024. Malone edged out his Republican opponent by fewer than 500 votes.
Although Malone’s win doesn’t change the balance of power in the state Senate, where Republicans still hold a four-seat majority, it’s seen as a positive sign for Democrats heading into future elections.
“We feel great, and the Republicans are scared,” said Democratic National Committee chair Ken Martin.
Republicans, however, downplayed the results. Mason Di Palma, communications director for the Republican State Leadership Committee, said the outcome won’t affect the bigger picture.
“Democrats know their agenda is unpopular, and they’re focusing on low-stakes special elections to create false momentum,” Di Palma said.
He added that Republicans still have a strong majority in the Pennsylvania Senate to oppose Governor Shapiro’s liberal policies.
Democrats have already secured notable wins in 2025, including flipping an Iowa state Senate seat in January.
Malone’s win in Lancaster is particularly historic, as the district hasn’t been represented by a Democrat in decades.
“This was a massive upset that no one expected,” Martin said. “Democrats are energized.”
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