State House, 20th District

Candidates: Adam Ravenstahl, Democrat/Jim Barr, Constitution

 

Bios:

 

Ravenstahl, 27, of Summer Hill (left), a former UPMC business analyst, won the post in a special election in 2010. He's Pittsburgh Mayor Luke Ravenstahl's brother.

Barr, 59, of West View (right), is a caregiver to mentally challenged adults. He has run for office repeatedly and unsuccessfully, including a 2008 bid for this seat.

 

Matchup:

 

Young Democrat with a prominent family name tries to fend off third-party challenger with losing track record.

 

Campaign strategy: 

 

Ravenstahl: Acutely aware of his party's minority status in Harrisburg and resulting inability to pass legislation, he's focusing on his constituent service work.

Barr: The state should go back to its constitutional roots and eliminate the property tax, he's telling voters.

 

Weaknesses: 

 

Ravenstahl: A young member of the opposition, he can't point to legislative accomplishments.

Barr: Without a major party, money, or even a pick-up truck to transport signs, he's on his own.

 

Websites:

 

 

Money:

Ravenstahl raised around $6,500 in a May fundraising push.

Barr reports one small contribution.

 

-- By Rich Lord