What to know for Election Day | Dukes vs. Timko race, Mars, Adams Township merger decision, Bernstine vs. Telesz, Kelly vs. Wagner, and more
Election Day is almost here. On Nov. 3, Americans will go the polls and cast their ballots to decide elections affecting every level of governance.
In Pennsylvania, voters will decide on this year’s governor’s race between Gov. Josh Shapiro and state treasurer Stacy Garrity, along with which party controls Pennsylvania’s Senate and House of Representatives.
The margins are narrow for control of Pennsylvania’s General Assembly, and the vote in Butler County could be consequential.
Along with a Democratic challenge to the longtime Republican incumbent in the 16th congressional district, and a vote on whether to approve the merger between Mars and Adams Township, election night’s results will be impactful in Butler County.
Read about the contested elections in Butler County below:
Less than three months after a special election between them was decided by fewer than 100 votes, Democratic Rep. Brandon Dukes and Republican challenger Scott Timko face off again.
Dukes has campaigned on increasing funding for infrastructure projects, such as Route 228, addressing affordability and investing in public schools. Timko’s campaign has focused on cutting taxes, tackling inflation and being tough on crime and illegal immigration.
Two Lawrence County farmers face off for the 8th district. Incumbent Rep. Aaron Bernstine, a Republican, faces Democrat Rick Telesz.
– Candidates for 8th state House District elections weigh in on key issues
Republican Rep. Marci Mustello, a Republican, has held the seat since she won a special election in 2019. She faces Kathy Smith, a write-in candidate backed by Butler County Democrats.
– Mustello facing write-in candidate Smith in 11th district race
On one side is U.S. Rep. Mike Kelly, a 16-year incumbent and car dealership owner touting his experience and ability to bring in tax dollars for local projects.
On the other is Justin Wagner, a political newcomer hoping to ride a wave of Democratic enthusiasm while running a populist campaign focused largely on affordability.
– Rep. Mike Kelly to face off against challenger Justin Wagner in 16th Congressional District race
On Nov. 3, voters in Mars borough and Adams Township will go to the polls to decide whether to merge their two municipalities into Mars Township starting in 2028.
– Butler Eagle poll: Voters in Mars, Adams lean toward merger option, but some critics remain
– Mars council believes vote on merger with Adams Township will be close
– What 2027 and beyond could look like for ‘Mars Township’ if merger is approved
– Finances, new library lead discussions at fifth Mars/Adams merger meeting
– Adams Township meets with HOA leaders on merger with Mars
– Library, township identity hot topics at fourth Mars/Adams merger meeting
– Adams Township, Mars leaders offer insight into proposed municipal merger
– Adams Township adopts amendments to merger agreement with Mars
