Rep. Neilson's Biography
Ed Neilson has proudly served as State Representative for the 174th Legislative District in Northeast Philadelphia since he was elected during a special election in 2015.
In 2012, he was elected State Representative to complete the unexpired term for the 169th Legislative District in a special election. In 2014, he was elected to serve on Philadelphia’s City Council before returning to serve as the State Representative for the 174th Legislative District, marking both his return to the Pennsylvania House of Representatives and reaffirming his commitment to public service.
Neilson is a lifelong resident of Northeast Philadelphia and a respected civic and community leader. He is a lifelong member of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW), Local 98 and held numerous positions within the union.
Neilson also served as Executive Deputy Secretary of Labor and Industry during Gov. Ed Rendell’s administration. In this role, he oversaw a staff of more than 6,000 employees and worked to secure workforce development resources and funding to benefit Pennsylvanians.
As a member of the House, Neilson has prioritized job creation, public safety, education, and senior protection. He has been instrumental in securing critical funding for Philadelphia schools, infrastructure, and transportation projects and was a key advocate for legislation establishing PA’s first Dyslexia and Early Literacy Intervention Program.
Neilson currently serves as Majority Chairman of Transportation, Co-Chair of the PA House Masonic Caucus and Co-Chair of the PA House Gas and Oil Caucus.
Neilson and his wife, Doris, are the proud parents of five sons. They continue to reside in Northeast Philadelphia.