This week, the PA HDCC named a new Interim Executive Director.

Frank Burdell, Political Director of the Pennsylvania House Democratic Campaign Committee, has taken over the role on an interim basis. The previous office holder, Nathan Davidson, has taken a position as a Floor Manager for state Rep. Jordan Harris (D-Philadelphia).   

“Pennsylvania Democrats saw historic gains in the State House last November, flipping control of 14 seats. Frank Burdell was a critical part of that accomplishment and we are taking nothing for granted as we prepare aggressive campaigns to defend the seats vacated by the late Representative Sid Kavulich and former Representative Vanessa Brown,” Democratic Leader Frank Dermody said in a release. “Frank Burdell is the right choice to lead the organization while we focus on these immediate campaigns and begin building for another successful Election Day in 2020.”

The two special elections for HD-114 and HD-190 are set for March 12.

Rep. Sid Michaels Kavulich (D-Lackawanna) died in office in October at the age of 62. He represented the 114th District since 2011 and was most recently a Democratic member of the following committees: Agriculture & Rural Affairs, Finance, Gaming Oversight, Local Government, and Tourism & Recreational Development.

Rep. Vanessa Lowery Brown (D-Philadelphia) resigned “under protest” last month after she was sentenced on a bribery conviction. She represented the 190th District since 2009 and was most recently a Democratic member of the following committees Children & Youth, Health, Tourism & Recreational Development, and Urban Affairs.

Both Democrats were unopposed in November.

Burdell expressed his excitement to take on this role and these elections.

“I want to thank Leader Dermody, members of House Leadership, and every member of the House Democratic Caucus, for this opportunity. It has been an honor to work with all of you during my time at the HDCC and I am excited to tackle these new challenges head-on,” Burdell said.

According to the Scranton Times-Tribune, the Democrats have selected Bridget Malloy Kosierowski to be the party’s nominee for HD-114. The Democratic nominee for HD-190 in Philadelphia is still currently not determined.

According to the press release, “Leadership is currently planning, and will soon implement a search for a permanent Executive Director.”