Pennsylvania’s speaker of the House won re-election Tuesday against a political newcomer.
Republican Rep. Mike Turzai will continue to represent the 28th House district north of Pittsburgh, defeating Democrat Emily Skopov.
Since 2001, Turzai has represented the district, which includes Bradford Woods and Franklin Park, as well as Marshall, McCandless and Pine townships. Both candidates live in Marshall Township.
During a recent debate, he called for privatizing liquor stores. He also said he supports legislation to extend the statute of limitations for victims of sexual abuse to allow some to file lawsuits in the wake of the recent Pennsylvania attorney general report on Catholic clergy abuse.
Skopov, who has worked in California’s film industry, railed against Turzai’s leadership in Harrisburg during the campaign. She accused him of delaying action on issues such as medical marijuana and the 2017 state budget.
Democrats were hopeful that shifting demographics in the 28th District, including more college-educated residents, would help Skopov’s candidacy.
