Gibsonia Man is One of 10 Hoping to be Elected as Delegate to GOP Convention

One way or another Mike McMullen is going to the Republican National Convention this year.

The Gibsonia resident is on Tuesday's ballot twice—looking for votes to be a delegate or an alternative delegate to the Aug. 27-30 convention in Tampa Bay, FL.

Ten people are running for four delegate spots to represent the 12th congressional district:

• Stephen J. LaPorta Johnstown;  
• Jeannette Pavlick, of Murrysville,; 
• Ann Wilson of Johnstown; 
• Jill Cooper, of Murrysville;
• David Majernik, of Pittsburgh;
• Jane E. Gleason, of Johnstown;
• Christopher H. Fromme, of Pittsburgh;
• Lidia C. Turzai, of Bradford Woods;
• Larry M. Borland, of Murrysville;
• Mike McMullen, of Gibsonia.

McMullen is assured of being elected as an alternate delegate because three people are running for four spots. The other candidates are Sara Kennedy of Allison Park and Carol A. Pruchnic of Johnstown.

The 41-year-old from Hampton Township served previously as an alternate delegate in 1996 and 2008, he said.

Describing himself as a mainstream conservative, McMullen said he has been an active Republican in the North Hills for more than 20 years and currently serves on the Republican State Committee. 

Being the last person listed on the ballot is to his advantage, he said, because his name is not buried in the middle of the list.

"They save the best for last," said McMullen. "Having a good Irish name to run on does help."

McMullen explained that the Republican delegates are uncommitted when they are elected, whereas the Democrat delegates are committed to a particular candidate.

"I will support the will of the people (of the 12th congressional district)" if elected as a delegate, he said.

Going to the convention is an expensive commitment, he said, because delegates and alternates pay their own way, which can be in excess of $2,000.

The party does not pick up any of the tab, said the self-employed sales consultant who also referees soccer games. But that does not curb his enthusiasm.

"If I'm one of the four (delegates), I'll be pretty happy."

The Pennsylvania primary is scheduled for Tuesday, April 24. Click here for more information about local races and candidates. Check back with Patch for Election Day coverage.