Janelle Stelson, a Democrat and former TV news anchor, has secured the Democratic nomination for Pennsylvania’s 10th Congressional District, setting up a rematch against Republican Rep. Scott Perry in the November general election. Stelson defeated Dauphin County Commissioner Justin Douglas in the Democratic primary, winning 75.5% of the vote with 31% of ballots counted, according to the Associated Press. The race is one of three in Pennsylvania rated a toss-up by the Cook Political Report, with Republicans aiming to maintain their House majority.
Stelson’s campaign focused on healthcare, economic reform, and rising living costs, positioning herself as a centrist Democrat who could appeal to independents and Republicans uncomfortable with Perry’s loyalty to former President Donald Trump. Douglas, a progressive candidate, emphasized his track record of winning in Republican-leaning areas, including his 2023 victory as a county commissioner. He acknowledged being out-fundraised significantly but framed his underdog status as familiar territory.
Stelson enters the general election with broad support, including backing from Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro, the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee, and several labor unions. She narrowly lost to Perry in 2024 by less than 5,000 votes. Perry, a retired Army National Guard brigadier general and former chairman of the conservative House Freedom Caucus, has represented the district since 2013. The district, which includes Harrisburg and York, has become more competitive due to court-ordered redistricting in 2018.
Stelson faced criticism for retaining her residency in Lancaster while running in Perry’s district, though she moved to East Pennsboro Township in 2025. She also admitted differing from some in her party on certain issues, including border security. Perry, an ally of Elon Musk and a staunch conservative, has held his seat by narrow margins in recent elections.