The Blair County Republican Committee has selected Andrea Verobish, a field representative for Congressman Glenn ‘GT’ Thompson (R-15), as its candidate for the 79th Legislative District Special Election slated for March 17.

The special election will be held for a replacement for former Rep. Lou Schmitt, who resigned from the state House after winning a seat on the bench of the Blair County Court of Common Pleas in November.

“I am honored to have received the nomination tonight from the Blair County Republican Committee,” she said. “I appreciate the opportunity and I’m ready to put in the work to win.”

In a statement, committee chair Matt Zupon expressed confidence that Verobish will “build upon the dedication, effectiveness, and community-focused leadership demonstrated by Schmitt during his seven-year tenure in the General Assembly.”

Prior to working with Thompson, Verobish served on the staff of former state Sen. John H. Eichelberger. A graduate of Gannon University, she is married and has two children.

The Blair County Democrats will hold a nominating convention to select her opponent on January 24.

The winner of the special election will fill out Schmitt’s term that concludes on November 30.