Newcomer John Joseph Cassidy appears to have unseated incumbent Katarzyna Swope to represent Pine-Richland School District’s Region 3.
According to unofficial results from the Allegheny County Office of Elections, Cassidy earned the Republican nomination by a landslide over Swope, by a vote of 873 to 86.
On the Democratic ticket, results were much tighter. Swope earned 340, falling just short of Cassidy’s 358.
The county will certify the counts in the coming weeks.
“I truly appreciate everyone who took the time to come out to vote yesterday,” Cassidy said. “Per the workers, it was the largest turnout they have seen in years for a non-Presidential election.
“It goes to show how important the school board election is to the community thanks to the current board and admin’s continued unpopular actions and decisions.”
Prior to Tuesday’s race, Cassidy said he is disappointed in the current school board’s “lack of ability to pivot and plan accordingly with the changing covid-19 recommendations.”
Cassidy said he will aim to make decisions based on the people he represents.
Both Cassidy and Swope cross-filed as Democrat and Republican.
Region 3 comprises Richland districts 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5.
Swope was appointed to fill a vacancy and said she was seeking reelection to strengthen positive school culture and provide a safe environment for students and the community.
“I would like to thank the Pine-Richland residents who voted in the primary elections, showing their engagement and care for the community and congratulate all the candidates who secured their nomination for the fall,” she said. “It has been a great learning experience on the democratic processes, and I will continue to serve till the end of my term on the Pine-Richland School Board with deep commitment and love for the children.”
