A Philipsburg Democrat who planned to challenge state Rep. Scott Conklin, D-Rush Township, in the May primary for the 77th State House District has dropped out of the race.
Zach Womer confirmed in an email to StateCollege.com and a Facebook post on Thursday morning that he would not pursue his campaign. He initially announced plans to run in July, saying he wanted to ensure Pennsylvania “represents the interests of the working men and women that call it home,” and in January said that he still intended to run.
But on Thursday, Womer said he had reconsidered because it is a “pivotal year” with the opportunity for Pennsylvania Democrats to retain and expand their state House majority, reelect Gov. Josh Shapiro and help retake control of the U.S. House.
“With stakes this high, I have been taking time to listen, to reflect, and to think carefully about where I can be most useful in this fight,” Womer wrote. “Public service is never about one person. It is about doing the work and building the coalition needed to deliver for working people. At the end of the day, this moment is bigger than any one of us. And if we stay focused and organized, I truly believe Pennsylvania Democrats can meet it.”
Womer previously ran unsuccessfully as the Democratic nominee against U.S. Rep. Glenn Thompson, D-Howard, for the 15th Congressional District in 2024.
Conklin now appears likely to run unopposed for an 11th term representing a district that includes part of State College and all of Philipsburg and Port Matilda boroughs and Ferguson, Halfmoon, Huston, Patton, Rush, Taylor and Worth townships. He announced his plans to seek reelection in January.
No other Democrat or Republican candidate has announced an intention to run for the seat, though candidates have until March 10 to file nomination petitions.
Pennsylvania’s primary Election Day is May 19. The General Election is Nov. 3.
