The nominees have been selected for the special election to replace the late Matt Gergely in the 35th Legislative District.

Democrats tapped McKeesport police officer Dan Goughnour as their representative, while Republicans will put White Oak borough councilor Charles Davis on the ballot.

The Mon Valley special election is scheduled for March 25 and will decide control of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives which is currently evenly split at 101-101.

Goughnour came out on top of a six-person field during a meeting of the Allegheny County Democratic Committee on Saturday, receiving 46 out of the 88 votes cast. He was viewed as the favorite entering the meeting as those representing McKeesport made up more than half of the 100 committee people eligible to vote. Goughnour also had the endorsement of McKeesport mayor Mike Cherepko who also chairs the community’s Democratic committee.

In a statement released on social media, Goughnour said he was “honored to be the Democratic nominee” for state representative.

“Thank you, to the Allegheny County Democratic Committee for your support,” Goughnour said. “With great respect for the legacy of service that Matt Gergely leaves behind, I am committed to ensuring the Mon Valley continues to have a strong voice in Harrisburg and that our needs are heard and addressed!”

Davis was chosen by the Republican Committee of Allegheny County (RCAC).

“In this time of transition, I have reflected on the importance of steady, committed leadership for our district,” said Davis. “After careful thought and discussion with my family and community members, I am honored to accept the nomination for State Representative of Pennsylvania’s 35th District. I do so with great respect for the legacy of service that Matt Gergely leaves behind.”

Davis, a lifelong resident of White Oak Borough, has chaired key committees, including Police, Fire, Public Works, Health and Safety, and Planning and Zoning, while also serving as a volunteer firefighter for 48 years.

RCAC Chairman Sam DeMarco called Davis, “an experienced fighter with fresh ideas who will provide real solutions to the toughest challenges facing voters in District 35.”

“I am ready to step up, listen to the concerns of our residents, and work tirelessly to advocate for our community’s needs in Harrisburg,” Davis said.

The 35th District includes Mon Valley communities such as White Oak, McKeesport, Homestead, West Homestead, Clairton, Duquesne, Lincoln and part of West Mifflin.

The district is heavily Democratic, with the party holding more than a two-to-one voter registration edge over Republicans.

Another special election will be held that day, as Lancaster County voters will choose a replacement for Ryan Aument, who resigned his seat to become state director for U.S. Sen. Dave McCormick. Republican Josh Parsons opposes Democrat James Malone in the 36th Senatorial District.