LOWER MACUNGIE TWP., Pa. — Republican former state lawmaker Gary Day took back his seat in the 187th District over a Democratic political newcomer early Wednesday, according to unofficial results.
"I am honored to be able to serve the great people of our area," Day said in a statement at about 1 a.m. Wednesday.
"I thank my wife for letting me have the honor to go back to serving the people of the 187th District.
"There is more work to do, to bring state spending under control and work to do to protect Pennsylvanians."
Day defeated Stefanie Rafes, a physician assistant from Lower Macungie Township who mounted her first run for public office.
Day served in the 187th District for 14 years until losing it to fellow Republican Ryan Mackenzie in 2022 when redistricting pitted them against each other.
This year, Mackenzie faced Democratic U.S. Rep. Susan Wild for the 7th Congressional District and declared victory in that race based on results that remain unofficial.
Day lives in Heidelberg Township.
Since his defeat, Day served as director of policy and director of district operations for freshman state Sen. Jarrett Coleman. So, despite losing his state House seat, he had not drifted far from Harrisburg.
He said working under Coleman has "relit the fire again" for his desire to get back into public service, and he hit the ground running with his priorities set on senior care and slowing down government spending and inflation.
He said his experience in solving problems and writing legislation while having strong knowledge of the region would give him a big strength in office.
The recently redistricted 187th formerly included Kutztown and Fogelsville, but now surrounds Slatington and creeps down into Macungie and part of Emmaus.
Rafes became involved with the Lehigh County Democratic Party in 2023, inspired by her parents' experiences in social work and environmental activism, health care inequities, and protecting public education.
"I would like to thank all of the activists, donors, partners, and supporters who stood by my side. I am eternally grateful for you all," Rafes said in a concession message.
"While we did not achieve the outcome we had hoped to, I am tremendously proud of the work we have done over the past year. I look forward to staying involved and continuing to work to address the issues that matter most to our community."
Rafes congratulated Day on his win and wished him well as he works to represent the 187th District, offering any support she can lend to strengthening their communities and supporting working families in the Lehigh Valley.
