Jim Wertz, a former chairman of the Erie County Democratic Party, announced his candidacy for the 49th District State Senate seat at a kickoff event Tuesday.

“I’m running for state senate because I believe that the people of Erie deserve a senator who will embrace their right to vote, not someone who would trade it for personal power or the whims of their party,” he said during remarks. “Pennsylvania is the cradle of democracy and Erie is its last line of defense.”

Wertz served as chair of the Erie Democrats since 2018 but resigned after November’s election as he mulled a run for the seat presently held by Dan Laughlin (R-Erie).

A graduate of Edinboro University, he was a union broadcaster and production manager for local Erie news before founding his own production company. Wertz turned to teaching next and has taught journalism and digital media at his alma mater since 2005.

His website states that he will oppose all voter suppression and hold those who undermine our democracy accountable, is committed to a constitutional amendment that protects the right to choose, as well as defend the right to unionize, ensure worker safety, and guarantee higher wages.

“I’m running for state senate because working people like you and me, and folks all across Erie County deserve to be respected for the work they do — and they deserve the right to form or join a union when that respect runs short,” he says. “A good salary is just one piece of having a good job. But what good is it when the pursuits of happiness leave no time for the people and activities we hold most dear.

“Tell (your friends) I believe in democracy — and in our citizens who select their leaders to represent them in Harrisburg and beyond. Tell them I am ready to walk with them — together — toward a more prosperous future rooted in our Erie values. The end of 2024 will be the start of a new era — an era when Erie is at the forefront of policy and politics in Pennsylvania.”

The 49th District includes the city of Erie, the townships of Amity, Conneaut, Elk Creek, Fairview, Franklin, Girard, Greene, Greenfield, Harborcreek, Lake Erie, Lawrence Park, Leboeuf, McKean, Millcreek, North East, Springfield, Summit, Union, Venango, Washington and Waterford, and the boroughs of Albion, Cranesville, Edinboro, Girard, Lake City, McKean, Mill Village, North East, Platea, Union City, Waterford, Wattsburg and Wesleyville.