Pennsylvania win marks 5th straight special election victory for Democrats
The Democratic Party has emerged victorious in the special election for control of the Pennsylvania State House. Democrat Dan Goughnor’s resounding 63-to-35-point victory over Republican Charles Davis has secured the additional seat needed for the Democrats to take the majority. The Pennsylvania Senate race remains undecided, with Democrat James Malone holding a slim lead over Republican Josh Parsons by less than one percent.
Prior to the special election, the Pennsylvania State House was deadlocked, with both Republicans and Democrats holding 101 seats each. The Democrats had lost their slim majority in January following the passing of state Rep. Matt Gergerly.
This victory marks the fifth consecutive special election win for the Democrats in 2025, despite the party’s poor performance in recent polls. The party’s favorable rating hit an all-time low in national polls conducted by CNN and NBC News this month. The Quinnipiac University survey in February also revealed record low numbers for Democrats.
The latest Fox News National poll released last week indicated that congressional Democrats’ approval rating sits at a dismal 30%, nearing an all-time low. Activists within the Democratic Party are frustrated by their inability to counter President Donald Trump’s agenda.
While Democrats were heavily favored in the State House race, they faced a tougher challenge in the State Senate race. GOP state Sen. Ryan Aument resigned in December to serve as the state director for newly elected U.S. Sen. Dave McCormick, a fellow Republican.
Despite the outcome of the special election, the GOP will maintain control of the state Senate, where they currently hold a 27-22 majority.
Fox News’ Paul Steinhauser and the Associated Press contributed to this report.
Anders Hagstrom, a reporter with Fox News Digital covering national politics and major breaking news events, provided this information. For tips, reach out to Anders.Hagstrom@Fox.com or follow him on Twitter: @Hagstrom_Anders.
