Pennsylvania Democrats Secure House Majority and Flip Key Senate Seat in Special Elections

Dan Goughnour's win restores the Democratic majority in the Pennsylvania House, while James Malone's upset narrows the GOP lead in the Senate.

Democrat Dan Goughnour won the special election for Pennsylvania's 35th House District, restoring the party's 102-101 majority in the state House.
The victory ensures Joanna McClinton remains Speaker of the Pennsylvania House, preserving Democratic control of the chamber.
James Malone, the Democratic mayor of East Petersburg, flipped the Republican-held 36th Senate District in a major upset, narrowing the GOP Senate majority to 27-23.
Malone's win occurred in a district that Donald Trump carried by 15 points in 2024, showcasing Democratic overperformance in traditionally conservative areas.
The results highlight Pennsylvania's critical role as a political battleground, with implications for the 2024 presidential election and beyond.