(The Center Square) – Pennsylvania House Democrats secured a two-seat majority in the chamber after winning a special election in Bucks County on Tuesday.
According to the Associated Press, Democrat Jim Prokopiak defeated Republican Candance Cabanas to assume office in the 140th district – entrenched in the state’s most purple region. The seat was recently vacated by Rep. John Galloway after his November victory to become a magisterial district judge.
Final results are not yet certified.
It’s the sixth special election win for Democrats since taking control of the lower chamber in January 2023. The victory drew praise from the Biden administration itself, while analysts say it shows promise for the party to perform well in the general election.
The narrow edge is likely temporary. House Speaker Joanna McClinton set a special election for April 23 to replace Rep. Joe Adams, a Republican representing a district in Wayne and Pike counties.