State and federal office hopefuls gather new support
With the Pennsylvania primary election just about two weeks away, candidates continue to receive endorsements in their respective races.
State Rep. Greg Vitali, D-166 of Haverford, was endorsed in his campaign for U.S. Congress in the 5th District by the non-profit environmental organization Clean Water Action.
“Greg has been one of the leading environmental voices in the state Legislature for 25 years,” said Clean Water Action Pennsylvania Campaigns Director Steve Hvozdovich in a release. “It’s this proven legacy that made him standout amongst a crowded field. We know he’ll take his voice and record with him to Congress which is why on behalf of our members in the district, Clean Water Action is proud to endorse his campaign.” “I am proud to receive the endorsement of Clean Water Action,” said Vitali. “I have worked side by side with them on many Pennsylvania environmental issues and look forward to working with Washington.”
Vitali faces numerous other candidates in the May 15 primary, including fellow state Rep. Margo Davidson, D-164 of Upper Darby; Philadelphia former Deputy Mayor of Labor Rich Lazer; Larry Arata of Haverford, founder of the Opioid Crisis Action Network; Chester Mayor Thaddeus Kirkland; former Morgan Stanley wealth manager Lindy Li of Malvern; pro-bono attorney Mary Gay Scanlon of Swarthmore; entrepreneur Theresa Wright of Norristown; South Philadelphia scientist Dr. Molly Sheehan; and Ashley Lunkenheimer of Upper Providence, a former federal prosecutor and health care advocate. them in
Fellow Democrat Jennifer O’Mara of Springfield was meanwhile being backed for her bid in the 165th state Legislative District by United Automobile, Aerospace and Agricultural Implement Workers of America Local 1069, representing Boeing employees.
O’Mara is the only Democrat on the ballot for the seat, according to records from the Pennsylvania Department of State. Incumbent Republican Alex Charlton faces a primary election challenge from Regina M. Scheerer.
“Growing up in Interboro, I understand how much earning a job at Boeing and joining the UAW 1069 means to working families across Delaware County,” said O’Mara in a release. “And as the wife of a veteran of the 101st Airborne, I also recognize how the important work being done by the members of UAW 1069 directly impacts U.S. defense, protecting our soldiers at home and abroad.”
O’Mara’s husband, Bradford Bitting, is a combat veteran and two-time Purple Heart recipient.
Union President Mike Tolassi said O’Mara’s “knowledge, understanding and willingness to fight when it comes to issues that are paramount to labor” solidified the union’s decision to endorse her in the race.
The district includes Springfield, Marple, Radnor and Morton.