EIGHTH CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT, PA — The Associated Press has called the race for PA's Eighth Congressional District for Democratic incumbent Rep. Matt Cartwright. His opponent was Republican and former Trump administration appointee Jim Bognet.

Cartwright will represent NEPA in the U.S. House of Representatives for a fifth term. He is a member of the House Appropriations Committee and is on the Appropriations Subcommittees for Commerce.

Wayne and Pike counties went strongly for Bognet. However, Cartwright gained majorities in Lackawanna and Monroe counties; Cartwright is also ahead by a slim margin in Luzerne County, where 87 percent of votes have been reported at press time.

Cartwright released a statement on his victory:

“Eight years ago I ran for Congress for the first time, and made a promise that I would be a representative who worked for all Northeastern Pennsylvanians. And today, I am full of pride and gratitude that I can continue working for this great region.

“This win, however, is not about me. It’s about Northeastern Pennsylvanians, and it’s because of our volunteers and supporters who mobilized voters across the region amid a tumultuous election cycle. Voters have made me optimistic for the future we have ahead. Together, we will create an inclusive economy, protect hard-earned benefits and affordable health care and modernize our aging infrastructure.

“I applaud Mr. Bognet for putting his name on the ballot, but ultimately our vision to 'move Northeastern Pennsylvania' forward won. Regardless of who you voted for, the commitment I made eight years ago still rings true today—I will work for every Northeastern Pennsylvanian.”

At press time, Bognet's campaign has not released any statements since AP called the race. However, Bognet said yesterday via Facebook that "we demand that all lawful votes be counted, and that unlawful votes not be counted. Our campaign will continue until that occurs and we will work for a just and fair count."