Brian Hagberg
WARREN, Pa. – Erin Willman’s write-in campaign to get on the ballot for State Representative in Pennsylvania’s 65th district was successful, according to the write-in count released by Warren County.
The White Cane Coffee founder and CEO garnered 495 write-in votes from Warren County in Tuesday’s Primary to earn the Democratic nomination for State Representative. She needed at least 300 to secure a spot on the ballot in November.
“The Erin Willman Campaign represents a new generation of leadership, offering fresh ideas and perspectives to address the evolving needs of the 65th Legislative District,” Willman said in a statement. “My commitment to inclusivity and community engagement ensures that all voices are heard and considered in the legislative process, promising a more responsive and representative government for constituents in the district.”
Nearly 2,000 Democratic ballots were cast on Tuesday. There were 567 total write-ins for State Representative on the Dem side with no candidate on the ballot.
“Today, we’ve witnessed the inspiring courage of a young individual stepping up and boldly declaring that change is necessary in Harrisburg,” Willman Campaign Chair Douglas Hearn said. “Erin Willman’s campaign, assembled in just 20 days, has propelled our candidate to secure a place on the November ballot as a Democrat, poised to bring about positive change for Pennsylvania’s 65th district.”
Incumbent Kathy Rapp, who has held the position since 2004, was the lone Republican candidate and garnered 3,511 votes.
Rapp has been challenged twice since winning her seat in 2004. She defeated Troy Clawson (68.45% – 31.55%) in 2016, and Toby Anderson (62.69% – 37.31%) in 2014.
