The Pa. Commonwealth Court hears high-level appeals in civil and regulatory matters involving public entities. Currently dominated 5-3 by Republican judges, the court issues opinions on tax matters, state agencies, zoning, and elections — it ruled in favor of several Republicans wishing to delay the certification of ballots in 2020, a decision the Pa. Supreme Court overturned. One seat is vacant following Democrat Ellen Ceisler’s retirement in January. Voters have the option of filling this vacancy with Democratic common pleas judge Stella Tsai or Republican lawyer Matt Wolford. Democrat Michael Wojcik is also up for retention for another 10-year term on the bench.
| Stella Tsai | Matt Wolford | |
| Bio: | Grew up in Harrisburg area. Philadelphia resident. Penn State undergrad, J.D. Penn. Litigator in Philadelphia before appointment (2016) then election (2017) to Court of Common Pleas. Adjunct law professor at Penn. Has provided pro bono work for low-income clients. | Grew up in Erie. Penn State undergrad and Temple J.D. State deputy atty. gen. in Philadelphia area, environmental crimes atty., has worked with Pa. DEP, special prosecutor. Former adjunct professor at Gannon U. Currently in private practice. |
| Philosophy: | Says immigrant background has given her “deep respect” for democracy and rule of law. Highlights experience working on civil and immigrant rights. | Describes philosophy as “conservative.” Self-described “common sense constitutionalist” focused on protecting personal liberties and private property rights while valuing legal precedent. |
| Elections: | Has ruled in favor of rehab patients seeking to vote and enforcement of distance between poll watchers and election workers. | Limited public commentary on voting rights. |
| Ethics and independence: | Pledges transparency, independence, and an “open mind.” Says litigants should have a “level playing field” in the Commonwealth Court. | Pledges not to “legislate from the bench.” Says he will “pursue justice in every case” and act fairly toward litigants. |
| Endorsements: | Pa. Dems, unions including Pa. AFL-CIO, EAS Regional Council of Carpenters, IBEW and Sprinkler Fitters locals, PSEA-PACE. “Highly Recommended” by Pa. Bar Assoc. | Pa. GOP, FOP Pa. State Lodge, Pa. Sheriff’s Assoc. Action PAC, Pa. State Troopers Assoc., Conservative Latinos Pa. “Highly Recommended” by Pa. Bar Assoc. |
This article appears in Election Guide Oct. 8-14, 2025.
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