Cook, Pisciottano declare victory in House races

By JEFF STITT

jstitt@yourmvi.com

Incumbent Republican Bud Cook and Democrat Nick Pisciottano both claimed victory Thursday in their respective races for state House seats.

Cook, R-West Pike Run Township, who represents the 49th District, holds a commanding lead over Randy Barli, a Democrat from Coal Center.

The Department of State reported Thursday that Cook had 17,729 votes (64.65%) to Barli’s 10,127 (36.35%), according to unofficial results, which also show Cook had 2,630 mail-in/absentee ballots cast in his favor and 15,099 cast in his favor on Election day.

“Thanks for the honor and opportunity to continue representing the GREAT Citizens of the 49th,” Cook said in a Facebook post. “It’s always been a TEAM EFFORT for us! From the original 15 volunteers in 2014 to the well over 1500 now, getting petition signatures, donors, those putting up signs, those helping with & attending events, to poll workers, you ‘We the People’ engaged in the process made this win possible!  

“We will continue to do what is right for the People. Thanks again and as always…MAKE IT A GREAT DAY IN THE 49TH!”

In the 38th District, Pisciottano, D-West Mifflin, claimed victory in his race against Republican Linda Book of Whitehall.

They were each seeking to be elected to the seat that was up for grabs this year after state Rep. Bill Kortz, D-Dravosburg, announced he is retiring at the end of this year’s legislative session.

“Truly honored and completely speechless to be elected to represent my hometown in Harrisburg,” Pisciottano said in a prepared statement. “The outpouring of support throughout this campaign from longtime friends and family to people who I only met this year was incredible. This win belongs as much to you as it does to me and I will never forget your support. 

“Thank you from the bottom of my heart. Now it’s time to get to work!”

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