Abney takes oath for state representative

HARRISBURG, April 26 – State Rep. Aerion Abney, D-Allegheny, took office at the state Capitol today to begin his first term representing the 19th Legislative District. 

“I am thrilled today to formally assume the elected office of state representative for our wonderful district,” Abney said. “I look forward to working with my colleagues on both side of the aisle to support policies that promote entrepreneurship and economic growth.” 

Earlier this month, Abney won the district during a special election to replace former Rep. Jake Wheatley.

Born in Philadelphia, Abney moved to Pittsburgh at the age of 18 to attend the University of Pittsburgh, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in communications and a master’s degree in social work. He has served roles including program officer at a foundation where he approved $1.7 million in grants to local nonprofit organizations and as the Pennsylvania director of special projects for organization, All Voting Is Local.

Abney said he will remain focused on key issues such as environmental justice, criminal justice reform, housing justice and the fight to raise the state minimum wage.

“No one who works full time should earn poverty wages. These individuals are not asking for any extra handouts or special treatment, but rather a fair and just wage that will allow them to feed their families and stay in their home,” he said.

He resides in Manchester with his wife Tamara and two sons, Aerius and Amari.

Abney’s district office is located at 2015 Centre Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA (First Floor) and he can be reached by phone at (412) 471-7760 or through his webpage www.RepAbney.com. You can connect with him on Twitter here and on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/RepAbney.