News & Opinion
We are saddened to report Democratic state Rep. Malcolm Kenyatta, the first openly gay Black man in the state legislature, has lost the race for Pennsylvania auditor general. The race was called earlier this week with incumbent Republican Tim DeFoor earning reelection over Kenyatta.
According to the Associated Press, DeFoor defeated Kenyatta by a 51.3% to 45.8% margin with 92% of the votes counted. The Pennsylvania Department of the Auditor General is the chief fiscal watchdog of the Commonwealth. It is responsible for using audits to ensure that taxpayer dollars are spent legally and properly. The auditor general can serve a maximum of two, four-year terms.
Despite losing his bid for auditor general; Kenyatta won his uncontested race to return to the state House to represent district 181 in Philadelphia. Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro endorsed Kenyatta, donating $25,000 to the candidate.
"Tuesday was bittersweet, to say the least, but I’m deeply grateful to my constituents for resoundingly reelecting me to the House." - Rep. Malcolm Kenyatta
In a statement, Kenyatta reacted to his loss in a statement saying, “Thank you, Pennsylvania. This journey has taken me to every corner of our Commonwealth, where I've been welcomed into your communities, counties, and homes. Your courage, resilience, and passion have filled me with hope for our future. To my incredible husband, my campaign team, and every supporter who gave their time, energy, and heart-I am in awe of you. Thank you from the bottom of my heart and soul."
He continued saying, “My concerns for the future of our Commonwealth and country are profound, but the one thing I know for sure is that this moment requires us to hold even closer those we love. I'm reminded of Proverbs 23:18: 'There is surely a future hope for you, and your hope will not be cut off.' Thank you, Pennsylvania, for the honor of this journey together. And congratulations to Tim DeFoor on his victory."
Kenyatta originally launched his state political career in 2018 as one of the youngest members elected to the state House of Representatives in 2018. In 2022 Kenyatta lost the Democratic primary for U.S. Senate to John Fetterman.
Kenyatta’s journey was documented in the 2023 documentary film Kenyatta: Do Not Wait Your Turn.
During his nearly three terms in office Kenyatta gained a reputation for his progressive political ideologies. As a legislator, he championed proposals to address issues such as generational poverty, minimum wage, workers' rights, increase access to mental healthcare, common-sense measures to address gun violence, and protect the digital infrastructure.
Though his background lies in community organizing and political advocacy, rather than auditing, Kenyatta said his low-income family upbringing in Philadelphia shaped his desire to ensure government efficiency.
