Former Auditor General Eugene DePasquale Wins Democratic Primary for Pennsylvania Attorney General

Former Auditor General Eugene DePasquale emerged victorious in a five-way Democratic primary for Pennsylvania attorney general, according to the Associated Press. In a come-from-behind victory, DePasquale held a significant lead over his nearest opponent, Delaware County District Attorney Jack Stollsteimer.

Speaking to supporters at the American Federation of Teachers hall in Pittsburgh, DePasquale pledged to be a strong opponent against the MAGA policies and election denial of his Republican opponent, York County District Attorney Dave Sunday. Sunday, who was the GOP’s endorsed candidate, secured nearly 70 percent of the vote in the primary.

The winner of the November election will succeed Attorney General Michelle Henry, who was appointed by Gov. Josh Shapiro last year and decided not to seek election. With a competitive race in the primary, DePasquale faced off against other Democratic candidates, including former Philadelphia Chief Public Defender Kier Bradford-Gray and former Bucks County Solicitor Joe Khan.

The attorney general position in Pennsylvania is considered the second most powerful elected office in the state, after the governor. The role involves steering criminal justice policy, investigating and prosecuting crimes, and serving as a consumer watchdog.

Sunday, a former York County district attorney, highlighted his experience as a prosecutor during the primary campaign. He emphasized his work on a group violence initiative that led to a decrease in gang violence and homicides in the city of York.

The November election for Pennsylvania attorney general is expected to be closely watched, as the outcome could have significant implications for the state’s legal and political landscape.