Joe Pittman

Retired state Sen. Don White's former chief of staff is running for his former boss's seat in the state senate representing the 41st District.

Joe Pittman, who served on White's staff more than 18 years, is making a bid to represent eastern Butler County, Armstrong and Indiana counties, and part of Westmoreland County.

White, a Republican, announced his retirement in January, citing health reasons. Although his retirement took effect March 1, two years remain on the Indiana Republican's term.

Pittman said he worked as White's chief of staff since he took office in 2001. He said that Lt. Gov. John Fetterman is likely to schedule a special election for the 41st Senatorial District seat during the May 21 primary.

White timed his retirement so that a special election could be held during the primary, according to Pittman. He added that at least 60 days must pass after a retirement before a special election to fill that position can take place. Fetterman is required to schedule the election no more than 10 days after the retirement, he added.

“Sen. White hoped it would coincide with the primary to avoid any unnecessary expense,” Pittman said.

He said he decided to run for the office because he wants to carry on White's legacy of serving constituents.

“I enjoy public service. I think public service can be a noble profession,” Pittman said. “It's something that's in my blood to continue to serve.”

He said whoever is elected will be sworn into office in June, which is budget time in Harrisburg, and the experience he gained working for White will allow him to actively participate in developing the budget.

“I am running to continue a legacy of being a committed, problem-solving senator who will place the needs of constituents first,” Pittman said in a statement. “I believe the resolution to our state's financial issues should be cemented in the belief that we must get government out of the way of job creators by eliminating needless regulations, reducing the tax burden and keeping money where it belongs — in the hands of hardworking Pennsylvanians.”

The Indiana resident graduated from Penn State University in 1998. He and his wife, Gina, have four children.