Controversy Surrounds Pennsylvania’s 10th Congressional Race

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) issued a statement this week targeting Democrat Janelle Stelson’s campaign as it gains momentum against GOP Representative Scott Perry in the traditionally conservative district around Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. Polls suggest Stelson stands a chance to unseat Perry.

On Wednesday, DHS released information accusing Stelson’s campaign of employing Chimaobim Adedayo Igbojekwe, an undocumented immigrant who allegedly exposed himself publicly, as a canvasser. U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) arrested Igbojekwe on October 1 after he pleaded guilty to disorderly conduct. ICE Deputy Director Charles Wall criticized Stelson, stating it is appalling she would hire an undocumented individual known for such behavior.

“Unbelievable that Janelle Stelson would employ an illegal alien to work on a Congressional campaign, let alone a pervert who exposed himself in public,” Wall said.

A police report obtained by the Associated Press revealed Igbojekwe told an officer he was distributing campaign flyers for Stelson’s campaign when apprehended. However, Stelson’s campaign denied knowing him, expressing gratitude to law enforcement for the arrest. Meanwhile, Stelson’s campaign finance records show no payments made to Igbojekwe. DHS provided further details, noting Igbojekwe was legally admitted to the U.S. in 2017, overstayed his visa, and was granted deferred action in 2021 by the current administration.

The race for Pennsylvania’s 10th Congressional District, a noted battleground in midterms, has intensified. Historically Republican, the district is becoming more competitive. In 2024, Perry narrowly defeated Stelson by less than a percentage point. Democrats aim to reclaim a House majority, viewing this district as a vital opportunity.

Daniel J. Mallinson, a public policy professor at Penn State Harrisburg, remarked on the competitiveness of the race, highlighting favorable dynamics for Stelson now compared to 2024. Recent polls indicate a positive outlook for Stelson. A Franklin & Marshall College poll suggests Stelson leads Perry by three points. Another survey by Normington, Petts & Associates showed her ahead by six points.

The Cook Political Report shifted the race from toss-up to Leans Democratic, citing Stelson’s polling edge. Mallinson noted key voter issues include affordability and data centers. He pointed out Stelson attempts to associate Perry with President Trump, while Perry links Stelson to Democratic Socialists.

DHS’s statement raised ethical concerns, prompting Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington (CREW) to file a complaint, alleging a Hatch Act violation. CREW’s president criticized the administration’s message regarding ICE’s election involvement. Perry demanded answers from Stelson on the involvement of the undocumented individual in her campaign.

Prediction markets showed high confidence in Stelson’s victory. On Kalshi, she had a 73% chance, and an 81% chance on Polymarket as of the latest assessments.

The district, covering Dauphin County, suburban Cumberland County, and parts of York County, has grown more competitive. While initially leaning Republican, court-ordered redistricting in 2018 evened the playing field. The demographic shifts and political trends position 2026 as a potentially favorable year for Democrats seeking to flip the district. Voter sentiment appears to be influenced by the national economic climate and the president’s approval ratings.

As the midterms approach, the district represents a crucial bellwether. Both Perry and Stelson continue engaging with voters, highlighting different priorities. With key voter registration deadlines approaching, the stakes are higher as both sides strive to secure undecided voters.