Smith Coasts To Easy Win in 42nd District

It was an early night in the race for District 42 seat in the state House of Representatives. Freshman incumbent Matt Smith of Mt. Lebanon, 36, took the election with roughly 65 percent of the vote over challenger Jim Blazeck, according to unofficial results.

"By 9:30, 10 o'clock it was obvious Matt had won. I called him and congratulated him, then I just went home after that," said Mr. Blazeck, 56, of Mt. Lebanon.

Link: www.post-gazette.com/pg/08311/925740-57.stm

Blazeck Challenges Smith For 42nd District Seat

Republican Jim Blazeck is not a career politician, and, he said, that's a good thing.

He is challenging incumbent Democrat Matt Smith for the 42nd District seat in the state House of Representatives next month, somewhat short on experience but long on enthusiasm.

Link: www.post-gazette.com/pg/08297/921954-55.stm

Link 2: www.thealmanac.net/ALM/Story/10-22-Smith-Blazek-B-w-2-pics

Candidates In 42nd District Agree On Need For Tax Relief

Democratic state Rep. Matt Smith and Republican challenger Jim Blazeck agree that change is needed in Harrisburg.

"We need to change the way Harrisburg operates," said Smith, 36, of Mt. Lebanon, who pledged to "do what's right," regardless of party affiliation.

Blazeck, 56, also of Mt. Lebanon, said more financial restraint is needed in the state capital. "The greatest challenge facing Pennsylvania today is the lack of economic growth due to high taxes, especially high business taxes," he said.

Link: www.pittsburghlive.com/x/pittsburghtrib/news/today/s_593428.html

Upcoming Candidate Forums

The Mt. Lebanon PTA Council, The League of Women Voters and Greater Pittsburgh Student Voices will be sponsoring two non-partisan forums this month. The dates/times are as follows:

Wednesday, October 22, 2008, 7:30pm to 9:00pm
Mt. Lebanon High School, Fine Arts Theater

37th State Senatorial District Candidates: John Pippy (R) and Amy Jude Schmotzer(D)

42nd State Legislative District Candidates: Matt Smith (D) James Blazeck (R)

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Monday, October 27, 2008, 7:30pm to 9:00pm
Jefferson Elementary School Auditorium

18th U.S. Congressional District Candidates: Tim Murphy (R) and Steve O'Donnell (D)