Allegheny County Rep. Sara Innamorato Resigns from PA House, Leaving the Chamber Evenly Split

State Rep. Sara Innamorato stepped down from the Pennsylvania House on Wednesday allowing Democrats to choose her successor prior to the fall session. The former representative will focus on her election for Allegheny County Executive.

State Rep. Sara Innamorato (D-Allegheny) resigned from the Pennsylvania House on Wednesday, in an effort to prepare for her almost-certain election as the next Allegheny County Executive in November. 

“Throughout my time as a Representative, my constituents’ stories inspired and drove my legislative priorities around creating safe and healthy communities where we can all thrive. Together we’ve done amazing things to improve our region and I am excited to continue serving our region for years to come.” Innamorato said in a statement released by her campaign. 

Innamorato won the Democratic Primary for Allegheny County Executive in May and is expected to handily win the general election.

Innamorato served five years in the Pennsylvania House of Representatives after defeating former Rep. Dom Costa in the 2018 Democratic Primary. During her time in the House, she worked with State Sen. Nikil Saval (D-Philadelphia) on the Whole Home Repairs Program, which allows low-income residents and small landlords to weatherize and upgrade their homes. 

With Innamorato’s resignation, the Pennsylvania House will be tied 101-101 during an ongoing budget stalemate. However, given the timing of this resignation, it gives House Democrats the opportunity to host a special election before the House is scheduled to return in September. 

House Speaker Joanna McClinton scheduled a special election to fill the vacant House seat on Sept. 19. The House is expected to return for the fall session on Sept. 27. 

“Sara is an unwavering advocate for her neighbors and a strong voice for all working families,” McClinton said in the statement. “Her tenacity and commitment are admirable, and she will be missed in the Pennsylvania House of Representatives.”