PENNSYLVANIA, USA — The race for Pennsylvania State Senate District 15 has been announced.
Patty Kim (D) defeated Nick DiFrancesco (R) to represent District 15, which includes all of Armstrong, Cameron, Centre, Clarion, Clearfield, Clinton, Elk, Forest, Jefferson, McKean, Potter, Snyder, Tioga, Union, and Warren Counties and parts of Indiana, Lycoming, and Venango Counties.
Kim was previously a member of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives, representing District 103. She assumed office on Dec. 1, 2012.
On Dec. 8, 2023, incumbent John Disanto (R) announced he would not seek re-election for District 15. Kim beat Democratic challenger Alvin Taylor for the nomination on April 23, 2024.
According to Ballotpedia, Kim graduated from Boston College in 1995 and moved to Harrisburg in 2000 to raise a family.
She ran her campaign on three main goals, including securing a living wage for workers, affordable housing and supporting strong public schools.
Kim celebrated her win with the following statement:
“Today’s election results are not just a victory for me and my campaign — this victory is for the people of the 15th Senatorial District who made their voice heard loud and clear. Together, we are going to finish the work we began together on the campaign trail. I look forward to rolling up my sleeves on day one and getting to work expanding the freedoms and opportunities of my friends and neighbors. From raising the minimum wage to ensuring every family has access to excellent schools, jobs, and healthcare, our movement has only just begun.
“My journey from local government to the State House and now to the Senate has humbled me at every turn. It’s a deep honor to represent my communities and advocate for our shared values. As I embark on my first term as a State Senator, I intend to show up for everyone who calls the 15th home, regardless of who they voted for.
“I’m incredibly grateful and honored to have been elected to this seat. Now, we get to work.”
DiFrancesco conceded the 15th State Senate District race with a statement:
“After a hard-fought race, the people of Dauphin County have decided to elect Patty Kim as their next State Senator. I called Representative Kim this evening to congratulate her on her victory.
“Our campaign was one of grassroots from the beginning. It started at our kitchen table and our team consisted of ordinary people from all walks of life. With their help, we were able to share a better vision for Dauphin County, and I want to thank each and every one of the friends, family, and supporters who took time to help our movement.
“I look forward to doing my part as a citizen of the 15th Senate District to support Patty Kim in her efforts to help Dauphin County.”
