Retired Judge Pat Dugan will be on Philadelphia ballots in November, running as a Republican in a rematch against current District Attorney Larry Krasner. (Image courtesy of Instagram @judgeduganforda)
The Forward Party, an independent third party founded by former Democratic presidential candidate Andrew Yang, endorsed Patrick Dugan in his challenge for Philadelphia district attorney, Axios Philadelphia reported yesterday.
Dugan, a former Municipal Court judge who is challenging progressive Democratic incumbent District Attorney Larry Krasner, announced the endorsement outside City Hall on Tuesday, and said it was evidence that he is a “unity candidate.”
The Forward Party, which often endorses moderates from the two major parties instead of running it's own spoiler candidates, also touted their alignment with Dugan in a press release: "Pat was born and raised in Philadelphia and has deep experience in the Army and in various judicial roles. He’s an anti-extremist running for DA to restore fairness and confidence."
"Pat Dugan embodies what Forward stands for: commonsense leadership that puts people and communities ahead of party labels," the party's national political director, Kayla Berube, said. "Philadelphians deserve a District Attorney who prosecutes crime fairly while expanding innovative diversion programs that actually help people rebuild their lives. Pat has proven he can deliver real results without the partisan games."
“I’m not running for any political party. I’m running as a Philadelphian for everyone in our city. Democrats, Republicans, Independents, Forward Party, non-voters, those who can’t vote yet — I’m running to serve everyone,” said Judge Pat Dugan in a press release. “This campaign is about restoring safety, fairness, and opportunity in every neighborhood. I’ve served my country and my city, and now I’m ready to serve again by making Philadelphia’s justice system work for everyone.”
