‘The choice before us matters’, Dauphin County commissioner endorses Stelson in race against Perry
Dauphin County Commissioner Justin Douglas on Wednesday endorsed Democrat Janelle Stelson in her bid to oust Republican Rep. Scott Perry, saying Pennsylvania’s 10th Congressional District needs a representative who will work with local officials rather than against them.
Douglas, who ran against Stelson in the Democratic primary in May, said his endorsement comes after speaking with Stelson’s campaign and amid his growing concern over how decisions in Washington affect local governments’ ability to serve residents.
“Whether it is funding for mental health services, protecting access to the ballot, supporting our communities, or ensuring counties have the resources necessary to meet the needs of our residents, we need a member of Congress who views county government as a partner,” said Douglas.
According to Douglas, Perry has “not been that partner.”
In his statement, Douglas criticized Perry for peddling election-integrity conspiracy theories and supporting policies he argues would shift financial burdens onto local governments, including the Big Beautiful Bill.
Douglas also called Perry’s involvement in efforts surrounding the Jan. 6 insurrection “outright disqualifying.”
While Douglas and Stelson disagree on some issues, he said he believes she will defend voting rights, fight for federal resources and work collaboratively with county leaders.
“We don’t have to agree on everything to recognize when the choice before us matters,” Douglas said. “This one does.”
Douglas added that he plans to vote for Stelson on Nov. 3 and intends to help her campaign in the months ahead.
“I look forward to celebrating Janelle’s victory in the coming months, more importantly, to working with Congresswoman Stelson to deliver for the people of PA-10 and Dauphin County,” he said.