JOHN SABATINA.
John P. Sabatina Jr. last week moved from the Pennsylvania House of Representatives to the Senate.
Sabatina was elected to lead the 5th Senatorial District, which was last held by current Lt. Gov. Mike Stack, in a May 19 special election.
ldquo;Serving the people of Northeast Philadelphia has been a privilege, and now that I am a senator, I expect my feelings will intensify,” Sabatina said. “We have many issues before us that need measured and committed effort — from property tax reform to basic education investment and handling the more local concerns that residents of the 5th Senatorial District have from time to time.
“My pledge to the Senate and my district constituents is that I will come to work every day to fight hard for the working families of Northeast Philly. With commitment and fortitude, we can accomplish great things to improve the quality of life for residents, business owners, teachers and students of all ages.”
Sabatina served as the state representative for the 174th Legislative District beginning in 2006. In the House, Sabatina’s focus was on greater autism awareness, increased investment for local emergency services agencies, an end to organ transplant discrimination and strengthening vital social safety net programs.
Prior to serving in the General Assembly, Sabatina was an assistant district attorney in Philadelphia.
Sabatina is a member of the Father Judge Alumni Association, Resurrection of Our Lord Parish and the Rhawnhurst Civic Association.
Sabatina, his wife Eileen and infant daughter Caroline lives in Rhawnhurst.
Sabatina will have to run for a full four-year term next year. Local Democrats are divided into at least two factions, and Sabatina is sure to face a primary challenge, possibly from state Rep. Kevin Boyle.
Boyle said, “I am honored by all those constituents who have expressed their support for a prospective run in the 5th Senatorial District. Currently, my focus is on a successful completion to the state budget process. I will be working intensely over the next few weeks to ensure Northeast Philadelphia receives its fair share from the state.” ••
