28-01-2025
Huntingdon attorney announces judicial candidacy on Shapiro's recommendation
HUNTINGDON, Pa. (WTAJ) — Huntingdon County attorney Ray Ghaner has been recommended by Gov. Josh Shapiro for appointment as the county's second common pleas judge.
The nomination, pending Senate confirmation, would allow Ghaner to serve in the newly created judicial seat for the remainder of 2025.
The position, granted by the state to Huntingdon County, will be filled through appointment for 2025 before being decided in the upcoming election. Ghaner confirmed his intent to run for the 10-year term, beginning in 2026.
'Again, I can't stress enough how much of an honor it is to have this recommendation,' Ghaner said, expressing gratitude to local elected officials, including Sen. Judy Ward, for their support throughout the process.
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Ghaner interviewed with state officials in Harrisburg and emerged as the top candidate among other applicants. After the Senate confirmation hearing, the appointment will be finalized.
While preparing for his judicial duties, Ghaner is also assembling a campaign team. 'My work is just beginning,' he said. 'We have formed a campaign team and plan to hit the ground running to win this election.'
The campaign will kick off with an announcement gathering on Tuesday, Jan. 28, 2025, at the Comfort Inn in Huntingdon. The event begins at 5:30 p.m. with social time, followed by the formal announcement at 6 p.m. Ghaner invited the public to attend and engage with his vision for the role.
Ghaner emphasized his commitment to serving with impartiality. 'I'm not a politician,' he said. 'Luckily, a judge is a position that relies on the Constitution and rule of law, so it's not as political as some elected posts.'
If confirmed, Ghaner's appointment will add a second judge to the Huntingdon County Court of Common Pleas, improving the county's ability to handle caseloads efficiently.
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