Representative Joe Kerwin

Joe Kerwin is a Republican member of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives representing the 125th Legislative District, which encompasses portions of Dauphin County. He was first elected in 2020 and sworn in on January 5, 2021.

Kerwin is a lifelong resident of Dauphin County with deep roots in the community. He grew up in Lykens and remains active in local civic organizations, including membership in the Knights of Columbus, Our Lady Help of Christians Catholic Church, the American Legion Post 239, and the National Rifle Association.

Prior to his election to the House, Kerwin served as a criminal prosecutor in the Dauphin County District Attorney's Office, where he focused on combating drugs and violence in the community.

Education

Kerwin holds multiple advanced degrees:

• Bachelor's degree from Pennsylvania State University
• Juris Doctorate from the Dickinson School of Law
• Master of Public Administration from the University of Pennsylvania's Fels Institute of Government

He was admitted to the Pennsylvania bar in 2019 and graduated from Upper Dauphin Area High School.

Military Service and Political Experience

Kerwin has served in the Pennsylvania Army National Guard since 2012 and holds the rank of Captain in the 56th Stryker Brigade Combat Team. He graduated from the U.S. Army Ranger School and Army Airborne School. In late 2023, he deployed to the Horn of Africa as part of Task Force Paxton with the 2nd Battalion, 112th Infantry in support of counter-terrorism operations, where he led an infantry company. He has received multiple military decorations, including the Meritorious Service Medal, Army Commendation Medal, and Air and Space Commendation Medal.

As a state representative, Kerwin has prioritized protecting Second Amendment rights and ensuring Pennsylvania's approximately 800,000 veterans have access to earned benefits. Since his election, he has had multiple pieces of legislation enacted into law.