Jen Mazzocco

Jennifer Mazzocco is a Democratic member of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives, currently serving the 42nd district. She has a background in education and local governance, having been actively involved in her community for many years. Mazzocco's career as a teacher and her leadership roles in local government and educational organizations have shaped her approach to public service. She was elected during a special election in February 2026, succeeding Dan Miller, who vacated the seat after being elected to the Allegheny County Court of Common Pleas.

Early life and career

Jennifer Mazzocco was born and raised in Hempfield, a community located in Westmoreland County, Pennsylvania. Her formative years in this area laid the foundation for her commitment to public service and education. Mazzocco pursued higher education at the University of Pittsburgh, where she earned both a Bachelor of Arts and a Master of Arts degree. These academic credentials have equipped her with the knowledge and skills necessary for her career in education and public service.

For the past fifteen years, Mazzocco has worked as a teacher at Taylor Allderdice High School, which is part of the Pittsburgh public school district. In her role as an English teacher, she has not only contributed to the academic development of her students but has also taken on additional responsibilities that reflect her dedication to fostering critical thinking and communication skills. Mazzocco has coached the school's debate team, guiding students in developing their argumentative skills and confidence in public speaking. Additionally, she has previously coached the quiz bowl teams, further emphasizing her commitment to encouraging intellectual engagement among students.

Mazzocco's involvement in education extends beyond the classroom. She is a member of the Pittsburgh Federation of Teachers, a trade union that advocates for the rights and interests of educators in the region. Her leadership within the union is notable; she served as the chair of its Political Action Committee from 2018 to 2025. This role allowed her to engage with political processes and advocate for policies that support educators and improve the educational landscape in Pennsylvania.

In addition to her professional career, Mazzocco has been actively involved in local government. She has served three terms on the borough council in Dormont, where she has held the position of council president. Her experience in local governance has provided her with insights into the legislative process and the needs of her constituents. Mazzocco's dual role as an educator and a local leader has shaped her understanding of the challenges faced by families and communities in her district.

Legislative service

Mazzocco's entry into the Pennsylvania House of Representatives came after a special election held on February 24, 2026. The vacancy in the 42nd district arose following the election of the previous incumbent, Dan Miller, to the Allegheny County Court of Common Pleas in November 2025. Recognizing the need for representation in the state legislature, the Allegheny County Democratic Committee selected Mazzocco as the party's candidate for the special election on January 3, 2026. Her selection followed a competitive process in which she was chosen over another candidate, Alliyson Feldmann.

In the special election, Mazzocco secured a significant majority of the votes, reflecting strong support from her community. Her election to the Pennsylvania House of Representatives allows her to serve out the remainder of Miller's term, which is set to conclude at the end of 2026. Mazzocco has expressed her intention to seek re-election in the upcoming general election scheduled for November 2026, indicating her commitment to continuing her legislative work and representing the interests of her constituents.

As a member of the Pennsylvania House, Mazzocco is positioned to engage with various legislative issues that impact her district and the state as a whole. Her background in education and local governance provides her with a unique perspective on the challenges faced by families, educators, and local communities. Mazzocco's experience as a teacher and her involvement in the Pittsburgh Federation of Teachers may influence her legislative priorities, particularly in areas related to education policy, labor rights, and community development.

Policy focus and district

The 42nd district of Pennsylvania, which Mazzocco represents, includes several communities, such as Baldwin, Castle Shannon, Dormont, Mt. Lebanon, and a portion of Upper St. Clair. This diverse district encompasses a mix of suburban neighborhoods and urban areas, each with its own unique needs and challenges. Mazzocco's understanding of the local landscape, gained through her years of service on the borough council and her role as an educator, positions her to address the specific concerns of her constituents effectively.

Mazzocco's policy focus is likely to be informed by her background in education and her experiences as a community leader. Given her long tenure as a teacher, she may prioritize initiatives that enhance educational opportunities, support teachers, and improve school funding. Additionally, her leadership role in the Pittsburgh Federation of Teachers suggests that she may advocate for labor rights and policies that benefit educators and their students.

In her capacity as a state legislator, Mazzocco will also have the opportunity to address broader issues affecting her district, such as healthcare, infrastructure, and community development. Her experience in local governance may provide her with insights into the needs of her constituents, allowing her to advocate for policies that promote economic growth and improve the quality of life in her district.

Mazzocco's commitment to public service is further reflected in her family life. She is married and has two daughters, which may influence her perspective on issues related to family and education. Her personal experiences as a parent may inform her legislative priorities, particularly in areas that impact families and children.

In summary, Jennifer Mazzocco is a dedicated educator and public servant who currently represents the 42nd district in the Pennsylvania House of Representatives. Her background in teaching, local governance, and union leadership has shaped her approach to legislative service. As she continues her work in the state legislature, Mazzocco is poised to address the needs of her constituents while advocating for policies that support education and community development.