Summer Lee might become the first Black woman elected to Congress from Pennsylvania

Summer Lee was declared the victor in the newly created 12th Congressional District Democratic Primary late Friday by the Associated Press.

Lee defeated a crowded pack of contenders, including primary challenger Steve Irwin. Friday’s declaration by the AP ended four days of suspense when the race was too tight to call between Lee and Irwin. In the end, Lee’s 47,463 votes topped Irwin’s 46,726, a 737-vote difference for a less than 1% margin between the two.

Despite the lack of a clear winner, Lee had already declared victory several hours after voting closed on May 17. Irwin conceded by a Tweet Friday evening. It read in part:

“I want to congratulate Summer Lee for winning the Democratic nomination for Congress in PA-12. She ran a formidable campaign, one that reflected her determination to make progress for people and give a voice to the voiceless. She will be an outstanding member of Congress and an inspirational leader for our region.”

Lee will face Republican Mike Doyle for the seat recently vacated by retiring Democrat Mike Doyle (no relation to the Republican).

The Chronicle will have election reaction tomorrow on our website. PJC

—David Rullo