Leon Spencer
KENNETT SQUARE — Leon Spencer, Jr., the former Mayor of Kennett Square, announced Saturday that he will run for State Representative in the 158th Legislative District. Surrounded by about 100 supporters on the steps of his alma mater, Kennett High School, Spencer announced his run for a seat in the Pennsylvania House of Representatives.
The seat is currently held by Christina Sappey, a Democrat.
“I’m so grateful for all of you who came out to support me. Honestly, I’m overwhelmed by all the faces of friends and loved ones here today,” Spencer said. “I would say that I am running for State Representative, but the truth is that WE are running for State Representative. WE, the people of Chester County. WE, the members of this community, are running for State Representative. This is a movement. This is a group effort.”
Using a musical metaphor, Spencer cited the discord in Harrisburg and said he is running for State Representative because he wants to bring harmony to communities across Pennsylvania. “I want to be the conduit for the people of this district. Their voices need to be heard, and I believe I am the best candidate to address their concerns in the State Capitol.”
Former Pennsylvania State Representative Eric Roe (R-158) endorsed Spencer at the campaign rally.
“Leon’s public service has been about serving others. As a member of the school board, Leon Spencer provided kids in Kennett with a great education. As a member of Kennett Borough Council, Leon Spencer held the line on taxes. And as the Mayor of Kennett Square, he gave our police officers the resources they needed to protect and serve. I’m proud to support my friend Leon Spencer for State Representative because he will unite a divided Pennsylvania,” Roe said.
Spencer is seeking the Republican nomination for the seat, but he says he wants to be everyone’s representative, not just a legislator for people in his own political party.
“I’m delighted to have the support of Democrats, Republicans, and independent voters alike,” he said. “That’s how it’s supposed to be!”
The proposed boundary lines of the 158th District contain the boroughs of Avondale and Kennett Square, as well as the townships of West Bradford, East Fallowfield, Kennett, East Marlborough, West Marlborough, New Garden, Newlin, and Pocopson. The Pennsylvania Supreme Court is expected to rule on the newly redistricted legislative maps by the second week of March.
