Reactions to Democrat James Malone’s possible upset in 36th Senate race

• By Jaxon White/LNP | LancasterOnline

Elon Musk, top advisor to President Donald Trump

Gov. Josh Shapiro, a Democrat

Republican activist Scott Presler

Sen. Vincent Hughes, chair of the Senate Democratic Campaign Committee

“This is a referendum on the chaos Washington Republicans have brought to our state and the silence and inaction Harrisburg Republicans have responded with. Voters are fed up, and they showed up tonight in Lancaster. Mayor Malone is the leader we need right now. Through this campaign, he has been thoughtful, listened to his neighbors and is ready to deliver on the promise of rational governance. Congratulations to the Mayor, his team, and the Lancaster County Democrats who worked so hard to share the importance of this race.”

Democratic Legislative Campaign Committee President Heather Williams

“It’s only March, and Democrats have defied the odds again with another upset victory in Republican territory. Democrats are on a roll in state legislative races in 2025, from flipping red seats to defending one-seat majorities, which should put Republicans on edge. Both wins affirm Democratic leadership in a moment when GOP power is synonymous with chaos. While we celebrate our victories tonight, control of the Pennsylvania House still hinges on a single seat. As the only organization dedicated to building Democratic power in state legislatures, the DLCC is ready to keep up the fight – especially in special elections as we gear up for competitive races in 2025 and 2026.”

U.S. Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, NY-14