Allen Continues Blue Wave With Election Win In Bensalem

BENSALEM TOWNSHIP, PA — For years, the township was always a Republican stronghold in Bucks County.

But in the past year, the Blue Wave has blasted Bensalem with enough Democratic firepower for the party to take control of the Bensalem Township Council and the Bensalem Township School Board.

In both those races last year, the Democrats swept out numerous GOP incumbents, paving the way for new leadership.

That trend continued in Tuesday's general election as longtime GOP legislators lost at the polls.

After representing Lower Bucks County for nearly two decades as state senator and state representative, Frank Farry narrowly lost his re-election bid to Democratic challenger Eileen Hartnett Alibillar.

Democrat and former Councilman Bryan Allen defeated GOP State Rep. Kathleen "K.C." Tomlinson for state representative in the 18th Legislative District, which covers Bensalem and Hulmeville.

Allen received 13,114 votes (54.76%) while Tomlinson garnered 10,800 votes, or 45.09 percent.

Election results are unofficial until certified by the Bucks County Board of Elections.

Allen is a former two-term councilman and local youth sports coach who said he has dedicated his career to helping families navigate hard times through local government assistance.

He was running to fix what he called a broken education system, while also wanting to lower energy costs, and expand access to affordable healthcare.

Allen issued a statement following his victory.

“I owe this victory to my friends, family, campaign team, and volunteers who made this possible, especially my wife Melissa and our three amazing kids," Allen said. "I experienced a win on election night when I won my seat on Bensalem Council, and I felt so much gratitude. I'm reliving that, knowing that my community is putting trust in me again over 10 years later.

He also thanked Tomlinson for her service to the community.

Allen, 48, also was the former Chief of Staff to State Rep. Tina Davis.

He said he is "eager to turn the page and start working hard to deliver" for the district's children, seniors, working families, and first responders, and to put families' and small business' budgets ahead of corporate and tech billionaire profits.

"I am honored to fight for you in Harrisburg," Allen said. "While working in the State House, I learned just how important effective and devoted state legislators are, and how collaboration can truly help families across all of Pennsylvania. My years of experience working in the House have prepared me to hit the ground running for our community on day one."