Republican Rep. Scott Perry defended his approach to national security, called for relief from Pennsylvania's high gas taxes and challenged Democratic opponent Janelle Stelson's policy positions during their final debate Wednesday in one of the state's most closely watched congressional races.
The debate in Harrisburg put the candidates' competing approaches to the economy, the war with Iran, health care and data center development on display as they prepare for a November 3 rematch.
Perry, a former Army National Guard brigadier general, defended his support for military action against Iran, citing the regime's longstanding hostility toward the United States and threats to American security. He argued that the conflict must end in a way that prevents future threats.
Stelson called for ending the war almost immediately, arguing that the conflict has contributed to rising fuel costs for families, farmers and businesses.
Perry disputed her explanation for higher diesel prices and called for suspending the federal gas tax. He also urged Democratic Gov. Josh Shapiro to suspend Pennsylvania's state gas tax, which Perry said places an additional burden on drivers.
The candidates also clashed over Pennsylvania's growing data center industry. Perry criticized Shapiro's tax incentives for large technology companies, arguing that taxpayers should not subsidize wealthy multinational corporations seeking to expand in the state.
Perry highlighted his support for the Ratepayer Protection Act, which would require large electricity users, including data centers, to cover the costs of power generation and transmission upgrades attributable to their demand.
Stelson also called for data center operators to provide their own power and protect local water supplies, while arguing that communities should retain the authority to reject projects.
On health care, Perry called for greater price transparency, portability and consumer choice, arguing that the Affordable Care Act has failed to deliver affordable coverage. Stelson criticized his support for President Donald Trump's One Big Beautiful Bill, contending that its Medicaid provisions threaten struggling hospitals.
Perry also defended his record on taxes, citing legislation reducing taxes on tips and overtime and providing tax relief for seniors. He argued that his record demonstrates a commitment to lowering costs and delivering results for constituents.
The contest is a rematch of the 2024 race, when Perry defeated Stelson by just over 5,100 votes. With control of the House potentially at stake, both campaigns are seeking to persuade voters that their approach to the economy, national security and federal policy will better serve central Pennsylvania.
