Janelle Stelson, a Democrat and former TV news anchor, is headed for a second showdown with Rep. Scott Perry (R-PA) in November, renewing a high-profile battle for Pennsylvania’s 10th Congressional District.Stelson defeated Dauphin County Commissioner Justin Douglas in Tuesday’s Democratic primary after running a campaign centered on healthcare, economic reform, and rising living costs.With 31% of the vote counted, Stelson had secured 75.5% support, according to the Associated Press.
Janelle Stelson, a candidate for the Democratic nomination in Pennsylvania’s 10th Congressional District, speaks during a debate on April 9, 2024, in York, Pennsylvania. (AP Photo/Joe Lamberti)
The primary highlighted two sharply different political approaches to taking Perry down.
Stelson cast herself as a centrist Democrat who could appeal to independents and Republicans uncomfortable with Perry’s loyalty to President Donald Trump.
By contrast, Douglas leaned into a more progressive message, arguing that his political track record showed he could defeat entrenched, better-funded opponents in traditionally Republican territory. Douglas, a former pastor, helped Democrats gain control of Dauphin County government for the first time in more than 100 years after winning a county commissioner seat in 2023.
