The First Ask Announces Endorsement of Democrat Jennifer Mazzocco for Pennsylvania House District 42
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 20, 2026
Contact: Eleanor Walter
The First Ask Announces Endorsement of Democrat Jennifer Mazzocco for Pennsylvania House District 42
Washington, DC — The First Ask has announced support for Jennifer Mazzocco, the Democratic nominee for the special election in Pennsylvania HD-42. Mazzocco is a Pittsburgh public school teacher and a leader in the city’s teacher union. Beyond her work in education, Mazzocco has spent three terms as a council member for the Borough of Dormont.
The special election for HD-42 will be held on February 24. Mazzocco will also be running for a full two-year term in the regular 2026 election for the same House District (District 42) which will take place on November 3, 2026.
Mazzocco’s platform is centered on strengthening public education, protecting workers’ rights, and expanding economic opportunity for working families. She supports fully funding public schools, defending collective bargaining, and lowering costs for families through investments in childcare, and affordable healthcare.
Caroline Welles, Executive Director of The First Ask, issued the following statement on the endorsement:
“Jen Mazzocco has served her community for years as a teacher and an organizer. She has spent her life working alongside students, families, and neighbors to expand opportunity. Jen understands the challenges working families face because she works alongside them every day, and she brings both compassion and practical experience to the table. At a time when state legislatures play an increasingly critical role in shaping policy that affects our daily lives, it is essential to elect leaders who are deeply rooted in their communities. Jen is exactly that kind of leader. The First Ask is proud to support her candidacy.”
The First Ask is a 527 political action committee dedicated to identifying and supporting Democratic women to run for State Chambers nationwide. The organization advocates for proportionate gender representation in state legislatures by increasing the share of women serving in legislatures from 32% to 51%.
