GOP finds replacement candidate in 13th House race

John A. Lawrence of Kemblesville is the new Republican Party candidate for the 13th House District in Chester County.

Lawrence was selected to run for the House seat Thursday night at a special nominating convention called after Curtis Mason was forced to withdraw because of a "significant medical problems," according to GOP officials

Lawrence is a lifelong resident of the 13th District, which has been represented by Republican state Rep. Art Hersey since 1982. Hershey is retiring at the end of the year.

Lawrence said he was looking forward to the challenge of campaign and representing the residents of the 13th District.

"As a young family man and professional I believe I relate to those in this district," Lawrence said in a written statement. "I can relate to the problems facing young families moving into the district."

Lawrence has worked at JP Morgan in Newark, Del., since 2001. He is a senior account officer in the international private client group.

"The residents of the 13th District are lucky to have someone with the leadership ability of John to step into the race," said Skip Brion, chairman of the Republican Committee of Chester County. "He has been recognized as a leader at JP Morgan. John will be an excellent candidate and a superb state representative."

Lawrence says his financial background will help him provide solutions to the many fiscal issues facing Pennsylvania.

He is a graduate of Penns State University with a degree in marketing and the National Association of Securities Dealers. He and his wife Rebecca live in Kemblesville and he is a member of the Hockessin Baptist Church.

Mason, who won the GOP nomination in the April primary, quickly endorsed Lawrence.

"I was looking forward to representing the 13th District," Mason said in a written statement. "The decision to withdraw was not easy but I had no choice. I enthusiastically endorse John Lawrence. He is a qualified candidate who will represent the citizens of the 13th district well if elected."

The Democratic Party challenger for the 13th House District is Tom Houghton.