Race intensifies in Pa.’s 194th District

Three political newcomers vie for House seat long held by Kathy Manderino.

The race to replace 18-year Democratic incumbent Kathy Manderino in Pennsylvania’s 194th District is heating up. Manderino’s retirement has three candidates vying for the seat, which represents parts of Northwest Philadelphia and Montgomery County.

Democrat Pam DeLissio, who has the backing of Mayor Michael Nutter and Representative Manderino, said improving the local economy and developing incentives to promote lifelong education are her top priorities.

“One thought is a tax credit for that adult who goes back to school. A state tax credit would encourage them and help write down some tuition costs,” said DeLissio.

DeLissio, the former CEO of Kearsley Retirement Community, has more than 30 years of business experience.

She has some tough competition from 26-year-old Green Party candidate Hugh Giordano. The Roxborough native and union organizer said he plans to shake the system up by tackling public education, jobs, environmental policies and political corruption.

“Unfortunately, it’s broken up in Harrisburg,” said Giordano. “It’s full of big corporate money and I will not stand by and let lobbyists control politicians. They’re there to do a job and if they don’t do their job, then they should be thrown out.

If elected, Giordano promises to donate 10 percent of his salary to classrooms.

Republican candidate Tim Downey is touting his deep roots in Roxborough.

“I’ve been involved in this community since before one of the candidates was born,” said Downey.

Although Downey doesn’t have specific strategies outlined, he said he plans to use his 26 years of experience in a teamsters’ union to repair the local economy.
“One of the biggest concerns is jobs, jobs, jobs,” he said.

The seat has been held by a Democrat for four decades.