Election 2024: Day wins Pa. House 187th race in Lehigh County

Republican Gary Day of Heidelberg Township has regained the seat he held for 14 years. He faced a challenge from Democrat Stefanie Rafes, a physician assistant from Lower Macungie Township.

Incumbent Rep. Ryan Mackenzie was not seeking reelection as he took on Susan Wild in the race for Congress.

In a campaign announcement Day touted his experience in Harrisburg and his conservative voting record, and said he would work on issues including the economy and inflation, "protecting children in our schools" and ensuring freedoms.

On her campaign website , Rafes says women's reproductive rights, health care, public education funding, and preserving open space and farmland are her top issues.

Unofficial results Wednesday morning saw Day with a strong lead over Rafes, 21,744 votes to 17,516.

Rafe conceded early Wednesday morning.

"I would like to thank all of the activists, donors, partners, and supporters who stood by my side. l am eternally grateful for you all. While we did not achieve the outcome we hoped to, I am tremendously proud of the work we have done over the past year," she said in a statement. "I look forward to staying involved and continuing to work to address the issues that matter most to our community."

The district serves Macungie and Alburtis, and the townships of Heidelberg, Lower Macungie, Lynn, Washington and Weisenberg, along with part of Upper Macungie Township.