Democrats Secure Pennsylvania House and Flip GOP-Held Senate Seat in Key Special Elections
Dan Goughnour's win restores Democratic control of the state House, while James Malone's historic Senate victory narrows the Republican majority.
- Democrat Dan Goughnour won the House District 35 special election, re-establishing the Democrats' 102-101 majority in the Pennsylvania state House.
- James Malone achieved a historic upset in Senate District 36, flipping a Republican-held seat for the first time in 46 years and narrowing the GOP Senate majority to 27-23.
- Goughnour's victory ensures Democrats retain leadership in the state House, with Joanna McClinton remaining as Speaker.
- Malone's win in a district Trump carried by 15 points highlights shifting voter dynamics in traditionally conservative areas.
- Both victories reflect broader national trends of Democratic overperformance in 2025 special elections, signaling potential challenges for Republicans in key battlegrounds.