Deceased PA Lawmaker Remains On Ballot

PENN HILLS PA —Because Democratic state Rep. Tony DeLuca represented the 32nd Legislative District since 1983 and never faced a serious opponent in his re-election bids, most people would not be surprised if he won another two-year term in next week's election.

Even though he died last month.

DeLuca, 85, of Penn Hills, succumbed to lymphoma last month, but voters still will be able to vote for him. There is no Republican opposing him. Green Party candidate Queona Livingston is the only other person on the ballot.

It's not inconceivable that despite being deceased, DeLuca could be re-elected. He obviously will not be able to serve any of his two-year term. So what happens then?

According to the Pennsylvania Department of State, which oversees elections, a special election would be held during the 2023 primary election, the 2023 general election or on a different day designated by the Allegheny County elections division.

The county must advertise the date and locations for the special election, as well as the candidates running for office.

Everyone who lives in the district the candidates will represent can vote in the special election. DeLuca's district includes Penn Hills, Verona, most of Plum and Oakmont.