Dems claim victory in Pa. House special elections

Democrats have claimed victory in two state House special elections held Tuesday in Delaware and Lackawanna counties.

The victories were both in seats formerly held by Democrats, and have historically been Democratic.

Gina Curry claimed victory in the 164th House District in Delaware County outside of Philadelphia, while Thom Welby claimed victory in the 113th House District, which includes most of Scranton.

According to unofficial results, Curry had 91 percent of the vote as of 11 p.m; Welby had 66.6 percent of the vote. Both will serve for the next year, until they can run for a full two- year term in districts that could look radically different after redistricting.

Their victories do not change the balance of power in the House of Representatives, which Republicans control 113-88.

Curry will replace former Democratic state Rep. Margo Davidson, who resigned over the summer while facing corruption charges. Welby will replace former Democratic state Rep. Marty Flynn, who won a seat in the state Senate in May.

The chamber will only briefly be back at its full membership of 203, however; at least one state representative has already won a local office and will have to resign the body in the coming weeks — state Rep. Ed Gainey, D-Allegheny, who was elected mayor of Pittsburgh.