Republican incumbent Sandra Major defeated a political newcomer in a contest for the 111th Legislative District.
With 98.82 percent of precincts reporting Tuesday night, Ms. Major, 58, of Bridgewater Twp., received 16,762 votes while Democrat challenger Jeff Dahlander received 6,917.
The 111th district covers parts of Susquehanna, Wayne and Wyoming counties. The job pays $78,314 annually.
"I am extremely thrilled, and I sincerely thank the voters of the 111th Legislative District for their trust in me and sending me back to Harrisburg for a 10th term," Ms. Major said.
During her next two-year term, Ms. Major said she will push legislation that cuts taxes and limits regulations on small businesses and corporations - a "necessity" to kick start the economy and decrease the unemployment numbers.
"Small businesses are the job creators in this nation," Ms. Major said. "We need to allow them to expand and not limit their growth."
Ms. Major also noted the importance of addressing the state's aging infrastructure, as well as the recent decrease in state education funding.
"We simply cannot afford to keep cutting education funding," said Ms. Major, who said she will continue to take measures to ensure money is restored - through the Accountability Block Grant program - to schools in her district.
Mr. Dahlander, of Great Bend Twp., said he still believes it's important for the representative to "put the focus back on the people."
"Representatives are supposed to be there for the people, not an individual desire for power," he said.
Starting today, Ms. Major said she will "listen to the constituents' concerns, and address everything" they bring to her attention.
"I am excited that I have the opportunity to continue to serve the constituents of this district," she said. "I am ready to get back to work."
Contact the writer: miorfino@timesshamrock.com, @miorfinoTT on Twitter
111TH LEGISLATIVE DISTRICT
ââSandra Major (R) 16,762 Jeffrey Dahlander (D) 6,917