Washington County: Pettit wins Democrat, GOP nod for county judge

By CHRISTINE HAINES

chaines@yourmvi.com

A district judge in Peters Township will become Washington County’s newest Court of Common Pleas judge after winning both the Democratic and Republican nominations during Tuesday’s primary election.

Jesse Pettit, 46, who is currently a seated Magisterial District Judge in Peters Township, showed restraint as the results came in, even as he maintained a steady lead of roughly 63% over Democratic candidate Joyce Hatfield-Wise  throughout the evening.

Hatfield-Wise, 56, of Amwell Township, unsuccessfully ran for the county judicial position in 2017 and 2019.

The retirement of President Judge Katherine B. Emery created the vacancy on the bench.

“I’ve been very hesitant to have anyone congratulate me until it’s 100%,” Pettit said, with 172 of 180 precincts counted as of press time. “Tonight is a humbling moment for my family. I can’t begin to express my sincere gratitude to our volunteers and supporters. Whether you voted for me or not, my pledge remains the same and that is to interpret the law in a fair and impartial manner and to treat everyone who steps in the courtroom with dignity and respect.”

Pettit said he was humbled by the bipartisan support he has received throughout his short political career.

As of press time, there were 178 of 180 precincts reporting. Pettit received 11,555 Democratic votes to 6,696 votes for Hatfield-Wise. On the Republican ticket it was Pettit 13,438, Hatfield-Wise 6,192.

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