Democrats are hoping to continue the 'Blue Wave' that rolled over the region in the last election - with two key state legislative seats still in the grips of the GOP in their crosshairs.
Those would be the 9th District state Senate seat currently held down by Republican Tom Killion. And the 160th state House seat held by Republican Steve Barrar.
But before they can make their case in the general election, it appears they will have to sort out a couple of primary challenges.
Both districts cover turf that includes both Delaware and Chester counties.
The Chester County Democratic Committee met last night to offer their endorsements for the April 28 Primary.
Guess what? They're backing different candidates than their brethren here in Delco.
In the Senate race, Chesco Dems offered their backing to Delco school teacher Brett Burman, a former school teacher and businessman from Edgmont. If elected, Burman would become the first openly gay candidate elected to the Pa. Senate.
The Delco Dems endorsed longtime labor leader John Kane, who ran an unsuccessful race against current Delco GOP boss Tom McGarrigle for the 26th District Senate seat back in 2014. Kane has since moved to Chester County, into the 9th District.
Ironically, Kane has been endorsed by U.S. Rep. Chrissy Houlahan, D-6, one of the four Democratic women swept into Congress from southeastern Pennsylvania in 2018. Houlahan was endorsed by the Chester County Dems in her own re-election bid.
In the House race, Chesco Dems are getting behind Kennett Square attorney Anton Andrew in the seat held for two decades by Rep. Steve Barrar, R-160. Barrrar has indicate he will retire at the end of his current term.
Democrats in Delco have endorsed Cathy Spahr, head of the Upper Chichester Democrats.
In one other note, Chester County Dems endorsed Don Vymazal for the 19th District state Senate seat being vacated by longtime Sen. Andy Dinniman, who has indicated he will not run again in order to care for his wife as she recovers from several recent health issues.
Vymazal is Dinniman's longtime legislative aide. Dinniman offered an immediate endorsement for Vymazal last weekend when he announced he would not seek re-election. Other Dems seeking the nod in the 19th include Kyle Boyer, head of the West Chester NAACP, and Rep. Carolyn Comitta, D-156.
Folks, start your engines. It's election season!
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