【VT – Philadelphia】May, 2025 – Larry Farnese, a seasoned attorney and former State Senator, is running for Judge of the Court of Common Pleas in Philadelphia.
Candidate Background
Born on June 1, 1968, in Drexel Hill, Pennsylvania, Larry Farnese was raised in a family with a long-standing commitment to public service. His grandfather served as President of the Philadelphia Board of Education and Chairman of the Gas Commission. After graduating from Malvern Preparatory School, Larry earned a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from Villanova University (1990) and a Juris Doctor from Temple University Beasley School of Law (1994). He is admitted to practice law in Pennsylvania and New Jersey.
Professional Background
Larry began his legal career representing clients through the Defender Association of Philadelphia. There, he learned that legal advocacy must be rooted in respect, fairness, and an understanding of people’s real-life struggles. He then spent over a decade as a practicing attorney in both large and small law firms, handling civil and commercial disputes and developing a reputation for practical and compassionate legal work.
In 2008, Larry was elected State Senator for Pennsylvania’s 1st District, serving 12 years. He led as the Democratic Chair of the Judiciary Committee, where he championed legislation addressing gun violence, equal rights, and mental health. His policy work focused on judicial efficiency, transparency, and reforms supporting those battling addiction and systemic disadvantages.
As an adjunct law professor at Temple and Villanova Law Schools, Larry trains future legal professionals to understand and interpret the law with integrity and clarity. He believes legal education must bridge technical knowledge and community relevance.
Policy Positions
Larry’s judicial philosophy emphasizes fairness, timely decisions, and courtroom transparency. He supports “back-to-basics” justice that centers on empathy and common sense. His vision is to make the court system accessible and responsive to all Philadelphians, particularly underrepresented communities, immigrants, and working families.
Party Affiliation and Endorsements
Farnese has been endorsed by the Philadelphia Democratic Party and the Working Families Party, and is recommended by the Philadelphia Bar Association. A longtime Democrat and former leader of the 8th Ward, he has built strong support across legal, labor, and community sectors. His endorsements include prominent political figures such as Pennsylvania Democratic Party Chair State Senator Sharif Street, U.S. Congressman Dwight Evans, and several state legislators and City Council members. Farnese is also backed by major labor unions including IBEW Local 98, Eastern Atlantic States Carpenters, AFSCME District Councils 33 and 47, reflecting broad trust in his leadership and commitment to working families.
In an interview with VT founder Hong, judicial candidate Larry Farnese spoke in depth about his legal background and public service record. He highlighted his over 20 years of experience, including his 16 years as a practicing attorney and 12 years representing communities like Chinatown as a Pennsylvania State Senator. Currently serving as a law professor at two institutions, Farnese emphasized that his career spans the full spectrum of law—from learning and practicing it to writing and now teaching it. He hopes to bring this comprehensive perspective to the bench to serve the Philadelphia community with fairness and expertise.
Ballot Information
Larry Farnese will appear on the 2025 Democratic primary ballot on May 20. If using a voting machine, his ballot number is [6].
