Steve Barrar is a very familiar name in Delaware County politics.
And now there is another familiar name looking to replace him.
Barrar, who has represented the 160th District out of Upper Chichester in Harrisburg for the past 22 years, has announced he is retiring at the end of his current term and will not seek re-election in November.
Enter Craig Williams.
You might remember the former U.S. attorney and Marine Corps veteran for a couple of previous forays into politics. He carried the GOP flag against then incumbent U.S. Rep. Joe Sestak, D-7, and lost. He also considered a primary challenge to Katayoun Copeland for the GOP nod in the recent race for Delaware County District Attorney. Copeland got the nod and lost to Democrat Jack Stollsteimer in the blue wave that washed over the Media Courthouse.
The Delaware County GOP-PA 160th Committee unanimously endorsed Williams in his bid for the state Legislature.
“I am deeply thankful and humbled by the overwhelming support of the Committee, and grateful to all the candidates for their willingness to serve and their graciousness in joining me after the vote,” said Williams. “Together, we’re sending a clear message to our district that the Republican Party is solidly united and firmly committed to keeping this seat.”
Barrar is on board with the pick of Williams to succeed him in Harrisburg and offered his own endorsement.
“Craig is a terrifically strong candidate with impeccable credentials, a powerful command of the issues and a confident leadership style,” said Barrar. "I am very glad that we spoke with one voice to support Craig Williams.”
Williams noted the bitterness and hostility in the current political climate.
“I intend to make this campaign about our families and the betterment of our community,," Williams said. "All the residents of the 160th District deserve a Representative who is dutifully committed to measurably improving their daily lives.”
Williams lives in Concord Township with his wife and four children.
The Democratic side of the ballot is shaping up to be a repeat of the 2018 primary election, with Kennett Square attorney Anton Andrew again taking on Cathy Spahr, leader of the Upper Chichester Democratic Committee. Andrew defeated Spahr in the 2018 primary before losing a squeaker in the general election to Barrar, 15,880 votes to 15,052.
The 160th District covers parts of Chester and Delaware counties. The district includes Kennett Square, Pennsbury, and Pocopson Townships in Chester County, as well as Chadds Ford, Concord, Bethel and part of Upper Chichester townships in Delaware County.
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