GOP state House candidate withdraws after the deadline
Cuyler Walker, the Republican candidate for the 158th District state House seat, withdrew from the race Monday, more than a month after the deadline to withdraw. Walker cited unspecified personal issues.
The Chester County Republican Committee expected Walker to win by a wide margin against Democratic candidate Susan Rzucidlo in the race to represent nine municipalities.
In a statement, Brian McGinnis, chair of the Chester County Democratic Committee, accused the Republican Party of "trying to substitute a handpicked candidate" instead of one elected by voters in the primary race.
"The public has a right to know why, at this late date, with ballots printed and already being sent to our military personnel and those living overseas, Cuyler Walker has abruptly decided to abandon his campaign and those that supported him," McGinnis said.
Val DiGiorgio, chair of the Republican committee, dismissed those claims. "The fact is we would have loved to see Cuyler run and win, but it's not a good time for his family," DiGiorgio said. "Obviously, my thoughts go out to him and his family and whatever issues they're dealing with right now. I wish him all the best."
Some members of the Republican committee would like to see Rep. Chris Ross (R., Chester) run for his seat again. Ross announced in November that he would leave office after 18 years.
Commonwealth Court must decide whether to allow the Republican committee to replace Walker on the ballot since the deadline for candidates to withdraw was Aug. 11.
The Republican committee expects a ruling this week. Before next week, committee members plan to convene a meeting to discuss a replacement.
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GOP state House candidate withdraws after the deadline