Representative Dan Goughnour

Dan Goughnour is a member of the Democratic Party and currently serves in the Pennsylvania House of Representatives, representing District 35. He assumed office on April 7, 2025, and his current term will conclude on November 30, 2026.

Daniel Goughnour is a lifelong resident of McKeesport, Pennsylvania, where he has built a career in law enforcement and public service. He graduated from the Allegheny County Police Academy and went on to serve in the McKeesport Police Department for 16 years. During his tenure, he worked as a detective specializing in juvenile crimes and later rose to the position of chief of detectives. His professional background in policing gave him extensive experience in community safety, youth protection, and criminal investigations, shaping his perspective on public policy and governance.

Beyond his law enforcement career, Goughnour has been actively involved in his community. He has served as a youth sports coach, helping to mentor and guide young athletes, and has held a position on the McKeesport Area School District school board, where he contributed to decisions impacting local education. These roles reflect his commitment to supporting families, youth, and education in his district, reinforcing his reputation as a dedicated public servant.

Goughnour entered state politics following the death of Democratic Representative Matthew Gergely in January 2025, which left the District 35 seat vacant. He ran in the special election held on March 25, 2025, and won, defeating Republican candidate Chuck Davis. His victory was significant in maintaining the Democratic majority in the Pennsylvania House of Representatives, which had been evenly split following Gergely’s passing. By securing this seat, Goughnour ensured that Democrats retained control of the chamber, allowing them to continue advancing their legislative agenda.

As a legislator, Goughnour has focused on issues that align with his professional and community background, including public safety, education, and youth services. His experience as a police detective informs his approach to criminal justice and community protection, while his work on the school board highlights his dedication to strengthening educational opportunities. Representing a district in the Mon Valley region southeast of Pittsburgh, he has committed himself to addressing the needs of working families and ensuring that their voices are heard in Harrisburg.

Dan Goughnour’s trajectory from police detective to state representative underscores his dedication to public service and his community. His blend of law enforcement expertise, educational involvement, and legislative responsibility positions him as a pragmatic and engaged leader in the Pennsylvania House of Representatives. As he continues his current term, Goughnour remains focused on advancing policies that promote safety, education, and opportunity for his constituents, while contributing to the broader goals of the Democratic caucus in the state legislature.