Representative Jen Mazzocco

Jennifer Mazzocco is a Democratic member of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives representing the 42nd Legislative District, which includes Baldwin, Castle Shannon, Dormont, Mount Lebanon, and parts of Upper St. Clair in Allegheny County.

Jennifer Mazzocco is a native of Hempfield in Westmoreland County and has lived in Dormont for the past dozen years with her husband and two daughters. She has devoted her career to public service in multiple capacities, including as an educator, union leader, elected official, and community organizer.

In 2020, she helped launch the Dormont Free Pantry to serve community members facing food insecurity. Her political priorities include advocating for working families, quality education, and active transportation. As a union member and leader, she champions policies such as raising the minimum wage, protecting pensions, and supporting robust paid sick leave and family leave policies.

Education

Mazzocco earned both a Bachelor of Arts degree and a Master of Arts in Teaching from the University of Pittsburgh.

Political Experience

Mazzocco was elected to the Pennsylvania House of Representatives at a special election on February 24, 2026, receiving 82% of the vote. She was selected by the Allegheny County Democratic Committee on January 3, 2026, as the party's candidate for this must-win special election, which was held to protect Democrats' single-seat majority in the chamber. She is serving out the remainder of the term left vacant by incumbent Dan Miller, whose term expires at the end of 2026, and has indicated she will seek re-election at the November 2026 general election.

Prior to her election to the state House, Mazzocco served three terms on the Dormont Borough Council and currently serves as council president. She has been an active member of the Pittsburgh Federation of Teachers, serving as a building representative, leading the union's Political Action Committee from 2018 to 2025, and currently serving as a Secondary Schools Representative on the Executive Board.

Teaching and School Service

Mazzocco has taught English at Taylor Allderdice High School in the Pittsburgh public school district for 15 years. At the school, she serves as President of the Allderdice Staff Association, coaches the debate team, and sponsors the National Honor Society.