Susan Boser

Susan Boser of Indiana, Pa., won the Democratic primary for U.S. House of Representatives 15th District Tuesday.

Winning in all but one county over opponent Wade Jodun, Boser won Butler County, 952-157, according to unofficial results posted on the county's website.

The newly created 15th congressional district includes much of eastern Butler County.

“I am honored and I am grateful for the confidence and the support from all the voters,” Boser said late Tuesday.

Boser, 61, said her focus supporting rural communities and the economy resonated with voters. She said economic changes are threatening small towns and pushing people elsewhere for work. She said she wants to fight for the small towns.

“It brings me hope that there is a path here, and I'm ready for the work,” she said.

Boser is a full professor and assistant chair of the Indiana University of Pennsylvania's sociology department. She has a bachelor's degree in English, a master's degree in education and doctorate in policy analysis and management.

Boser said her victory was not easy.

“Wade Jodun is a really good man. He's passionate and sincere, and he's been knocking on doors since last October,” she said. “At no point did I believe this was going to be an easy win.”

Jodun, who won only Centre County, spent more than 20 years working for the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service in Lamar, Pa. He ran his platform hoping to create and protect American jobs while making sure workers receive living wages, according to his website's statements.

He also said he wanted to improve schools, offer affordable health care and fight corruption.

Boser said she feels better about her chances moving forward because she has tested herself against a good opponent in Jodun.

“I'm grateful to Wade,” she said. “I respect him and admire him.”

Moving forward, Boser said this win will show people her ability to listen, and she plans to continue listening to anyone willing to share their opinions.

“I don't take this win for granted,” she said. “I think Republicans and Democrats have a lot more in common than what divides us.”

Boser will run against incumbent Congressman Glenn Thompson, of Howard Township, Centre County, who has held his position since 2009.

In addition to eastern Butler County, the 15th District also covers the entire or portions of Warren, McKean, Venango, Forest, Elk, Cameron, Clarion, Jefferson, Clearfield, Centre, Armstrong, Indiana and Cambria counties.

Jodun did not respond to messages left Tuesday seeking comment.