Congratulations to Eric Davanzo for a resounding win (“Republican Eric Davanzo poised to claim House 58th District special election,” March 17, TribLIVE). His hard work and that of his family paid off. His party stood solidly behind him before and during the election. Even with the current situation, people of all ages showed their support. Democrats couldn’t win the Westmoreland County special election despite outspending Republicans by several hundred thousand dollars.
The Democratic opponent, in my opinion, matched the latest formula: young, good-looking veteran pretending to be anything but a left-leaning Democrat. But the negative tactics were old school, and ultimately his own history caught up with him. Conor Lamb has clearly demonstrated that once elected, liberals vote in lockstep with liberals. Westmoreland County wasn’t fooled this time.
Some Dems were crying about the turnout, but despite the coronavirus, it was 20% higher than when Eric Nelson was elected in his special election.
The bottom line: Democrats don’t automatically win in Westmoreland County no matter how much they spend or how dirty they get. The voters were angry at scurrilous and false accusations. People just had enough this time.
We are not taking this or any win for granted. We will continue to offer Westmoreland County a better path forward. Good solid conservatives who are willing to work for and with us, come stand with us.
Bob MacPherson
Sewickley Township