State Rep. Jared Solomon last week announced he is seeking the Democratic nomination for attorney general in next year’s primary. He said he is undecided about whether he will simultaneously run for his House seat.
The announcement took place at Max Myers Recreation Center, where the candidate was joined by his wife Tiffani, daughter Charlotte and mom Sharyn.
Among those speaking on his behalf were Pearl Huynh, president of the Northeast Philadelphia Chinese Association, and Emma Vila, vice president of Humanity United for Global Support. Standing by his side were members of the WeLoveU Foundation, which has worked with him on cleanups, snow removal and creation of a small park.
Solomon grew up above his grandparents’ butcher shop in Castor Gardens. He’s a graduate of Swarthmore College and Villanova Law School. He’s a former Army Reserve JAG officer now in the National Guard. He recalled defeating 42-year incumbent Mark Cohen, whom he dubbed the “per diem king,” in the 2016 primary.
Solomon said he is running for attorney general to maintain and create safe, thriving communities. He said his district is proof that when you clean up streets, improve lighting, add security cameras and revitalize rec centers and blighted parks in a government/nonprofit partnership, that can lead to a decrease in crime and an increase in opportunity.
“This is the work in the attorney general’s office we need to do,” said Solomon, dismissing the Republican “lock them up” strategy.
Solomon said he has the experience and vision to fight special interests, adding that he has stood up to people ranging from Bobby Henon to Donald Trump.
Solomon expects 2024 to be an important election year, with Trump as the likely Republican presidential nominee and issues such as the right to vote and have an abortion and protections for workers and LGBTQ people on the line.
“We need someone with the track record who has stood up to special interests at every turn,” he said.
Sen. Tina Tartaglione is among 19 state lawmakers who have endorsed Solomon.
Other Democrats running for attorney general are former Auditor General Eugene DePasquale, former Defender Association of Philadelphia chief Keir Bradford-Grey and former Bucks County Solicitor Joe Khan.
York County District Attorney Dave Sunday is running as a Republican. ••
