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DA Zappala Running For Pennsylvania Attorney General

HARRISBURG, Pa. (KDKA) - Allegheny County's longtime district attorney, Stephen Zappala Jr., is declaring his candidacy for the Democratic nomination for Pennsylvania attorney general.

After 18-years as district attorney Zappala says he wants another job.

"Today I am announcing my campaign for Attorney General of Pennsylvania," Zappala told the crowd. "I have the experience, I have the record, and the passion to be the kind of lawyer that the people of Pennsylvania can be proud of."

Without ever mentioning the embattled incumbent, Kathleen Kane, the 58-year old Fox Chapel Democrat says he will restore integrity to that office.

"Above all, I am running for attorney general to restore voter confidence in an office that can best serve Pennsylvania only when it is viewed with respect and trust."

And Zappala stressed his independence and professionalism.

"I believe we have one of the finest offices in the commonwealth of Pennsylvania, if not the best office."

Following his announcement, KDKA political editor Jon Delano asked Zappala about Attorney General Kane.

Delano: "Do you think Kathleen Kane should resign?"

Zappala: "That's not up to me to say. I know the state Senate has taken that up. I'm not running against anybody, by the way. I'm running for the office and that's how the campaign is going to be run."

Zappala says this is not personal against Kane, but rather the AG's office can be run more effectively.

And Zappala says he will remain DA while campaigning even though he's required his employees running for office to resign.

Zappala says as the elected official he will keep the DA's office his priority.

"Approximately 200 matters a day that are scheduled. We have a process in place where I know everything that is going on in those courtrooms, and that will continue to happen," said the candidate.

"I don't have to be there physically sometimes to make sure that happens. If there's any issue about quality control, then I'm going to be here."

Zappala is not the only announced Democrat running in the spring primary.

Pittsburgh attorney Dave Fawcett and former Delaware County prosecutor Jack Stollsteimer are also in the race.

But Zappala has the biggest name, and Democratic insiders believe he is the one Democrat who can keep the attorney general's office in Democratic hands in 2016.

The primary is April 26th.

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