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John Weinstein, Allegheny County treasurer
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Allegheny County Treasurer John Weinstein announces run for county executive

Allegheny County Treasurer John Weinstein announces run for county executive

Longtime Allegheny County Treasurer John Weinstein has announced his candidacy for county executive, joining a half-dozen other Democrats angling to succeed Rich Fitzgerald next year.

Before an audience at the Heinz History Center in the Strip District Thursday night, Mr. Weinstein said he understands “county government better than anyone,” emphasizing his knowledge of budgeting and departments. He has worked as treasurer since 1999.

“We need a leader that encompasses everyone. We need someone passionate about this job, about this region, about our children, about everything that we stand for as Democrats and Republicans,” said Mr. Weinstein, of Kennedy. “We’re Allegheny County residents. That’s what means something to me.”

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Other candidates for the Democratic nomination in the executive’s race include County Council member Olivia “Liv” Bennett, former County Council member Dave Fawcett, state Rep. Sara Innamorato, Pittsburgh city Controller Michael Lamb, county human-services worker Erin McClelland and mobile app developer Will Parker.

Mr. Fitzgerald, a Democrat who took office as county executive in January 2012, cannot run again this year under term limits. His successor will take office in January 2024.

In his remarks Thursday, Mr. Weinstein highlighted an endorsement by the Pittsburgh Regional Building Trades Council, identifying himself as a partner to organized labor and an advocate for taxpayers. He lamented the rising homicide rate in Pittsburgh, homelessness, drug use and the state of the Golden Triangle, saying people feel unsafe going to work or to a show.

“This is unacceptable,” he said, vowing to collaborate with City Council to strengthen the city. “I’m not going to let the City of Pittsburgh become a statistic in the United States of America.”

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Mr. Weinstein also focused on infrastructure. Under his administration, he said, every county-owned bridge would be safe. He said he would not seek reelection as county treasurer.

Among those in the Strip District crowd: County District Attorney Stephen A. Zappala Jr., also running for reelection. Appearing at one point with Mr. Weinstein, Mr. Zappala called the treasurer a great guy who would make a “wonderful chief executive.”

Allegheny County executives serve four-year terms. Nominating petitions are due March 7 for the office, the highest in county government. Primary elections will be held May 16.

No Republicans have yet announced a campaign to succeed Mr. Fitzgerald.

First Published: January 13, 2023, 12:48 p.m.
Updated: January 13, 2023, 4:38 p.m.

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John Weinstein, Allegheny County treasurer
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