Tim Bonner

Republican Tim Bonner is headed for a rematch in November in his re-election bid for the 8th District seat in the state's House of Representatives.

According to unofficial election night returns for Butler and Mercer counties, which did not include many mail-in ballots, Bonner defeated challenger Scott Jaillet in the primary election. Both men are from Grove City.

“My family and I are humbled and thankful to the voters of the 8th District for their kindness and continued support of my candidacy for the PA state House seat,” Bonner said Tuesday night.

According to Mercer County unofficial election night returns, Bonner had 3,408 votes to Jaillet's 433.

According to Butler County unofficial election night returns, Bonner had 3,196 votes to Jaillet's 541 from poll and mail-in across the 15 precincts in the county.

Military, provisional and write-in ballots were not included in election results released by the county.

Bonner holds the 8th District seat, having defeated Democrat Phil Heasley, of Center Township, in March's special election. Heasley ran unopposed in the Democratic primary Tuesday, allowing for a rematch of the two again in the fall.

“We had a very cordial campaign last time,” Heasley said.

On Tuesday night, Jaillet said he congratulated Bonner on his victory. Jaillet is a U.S. Navy veteran who has been working as an electrical engineering technician at Grove City College.

“Mr. Bonner ran a great campaign. He's done a great job so far,” Jaillet said. “I don't think the voters could have gone wrong either way.”

Bonner said if he is re-elected in the fall, he will continue to work and be a voice for his constituents.

“I also reaffirm my pledge that I will be a strong voice on their behalf in the Statehouse in support of the right to life, the right to bear arms and the elimination of career politicians,” Bonner said.

Heasley said he plans to give people a fair choice, and he is excited to have an opportunity to better campaign in this upcoming election, having felt rushed in the special election.

“I'm more energetic than ever,” Heasley said. “With the counties going green, I think we'll have a real great chance to meet people in the district, top to bottom.”