Smith confirms state Sen bid

State Rep. Matt Smith, D-Mt. Lebanon, confirmed today that he will indeed run for John Pippy's state Senate seat against Republican D. Raja.

Greg Parks of Pleasant Hills had been the Democratic nominee for the 37th District seat after waging a write-in campaign, but pulled out of the race a couple weeks ago. Democratic committee members from the district may meet as soon as next week to confirm Smith as their replacement.

There will be no special election for the seat, just the regularly scheduled general on Nov. 6.

UPDATE from Raja campaign manager Jennifer Haas:

"The voters will have a clear choice between a liberal Harrisburg politician who was handpicked by party bosses and an independent leader and job creator who will get our economy moving agin. Despite Matt Smith's rhetoric his record of voting for higher taxes, more spending, and job killing policies are out of step with the 37th District. We look forward to a vigorous debate on those issues in the month's to come."

Smith's full statement is after the jump:

Mount Lebanon, Pennsylvania – July 12, 2012 - Over the last several days, I have been approached by
friends and supporters; Republicans, Democrats, and Independents; and voters from across the 37 th
Senate District to run for the State Senate. After discussing the opportunity with my family, I have
decided to seek the nomination to become the Democratic Candidate for Pennsylvania's 37 th Senatorial
District. I have been humbled and gratified by the outpouring of bipartisan encouragement I have
received.

I am proud of my work with individuals on both sides of the aisle over the last few years and for my
constituents. I have always advocated for common sense policies that will move our Commonwealth
forward. I committed myself from my first campaign forward to being a champion of government
reform and accountability, job creation and smart, fair tax policies. While we have made great strides
in those areas, there is still much work to be done, and I believe I can have an even greater impact as a
member of the Pennsylvania Senate.

I also want to thank Greg Parks for his commitment to public service and his willingness to initially put
his name forward as a write-in candidate in the April Primary.

I first look forward to the Allegheny County and Washington County Democratic Party's nomination
process and talking with committee members directly when I respectfully ask to be my Party's Nominee.
I will then look forward to a positive and spirited debate on ways to best improve our community, grow
our economy, and make Pennsylvania an even better place to raise a family, work, and start a business.