Speaker of the House Mike Turzai (R-Allegheny) Monday ordered a special election be held to fill the vacant seat in the 170th Legislative District in Philadelphia on March 24. The seat was formerly held by Rep. Brendan Boyle who has become a member of Congress.
Turzai filed the writ of election, the formal document setting the date of a special election, with the Department of State. A copy of the writ is also being filed with the board of elections in Philadelphia.
The vacancy was created by the January 2 retirement of Rep. Brendan Boyle prior to his being sworn in as a member of Congress representing the 13th Pennsylvania Congressional District.
Candidates for the office will be selected by a process designated by their respective political parties, and the winner of the special election will take office after the results are certified.
The Bustleton Avenue district office formerly operated by Boyle will remain open under supervision of the House, to assist constituents with issues or problems, and continue constituent inquiries already in progress. The office will remain until a new representative takes office and decides how to manage the district.
