In a primary battle between two incumbent Democrats, Mark Critz defeated Jason Altmire to claim the Democratic nomination for Pennsylvania's 12th Congressional District.
The two Democrats were forced against one another due to recent redistricting. Pennsylvania Republicans essentially stitched together Altmire's 4th District and Critz's 12th District in December.
Critz said his victory was delivered largely by two voting blocs: labor unions, and residents of Cambria and Somerset Counties.
If he defeats Republican Keith Rothfus in November, Critz will represent a district that extends from Cambria County in the east to Beaver County in the west. Critz outlined his priorities for the November election after his victory speech in Johnstown last night.
"Looking at this district, making sure that the folks in Allegheny, Beaver, and Lawrence learn why I have such strong support up here," said Critz. "I have to show them who I am, and with the support of labor like we did in this election, we've got to carry that forward and just build on that excitement."
In his speech, Critz said his campaign would "work [Keith Rothfus] under the table."
