[VT – Philadelphia] May 16, 2025 – Stella Tsai [2], currently serving as a Judge of the Philadelphia Court of Common Pleas, announced her candidacy for Judge of the Pennsylvania Commonwealth Court. She is the sole candidate in this year’s Democratic primary.
Candidate Background
Born in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, to immigrant parents, Stella Tsai grew up with a deep appreciation for democracy and the rule of law. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Political Science with honors from Pennsylvania State University in 1985 and her Juris Doctor from the University of Pennsylvania Carey Law School in 1988. She has lived in Philadelphia since 1985 with her husband Paul and their two sons.
Professional Background
Before joining the bench, Judge Tsai was a distinguished litigator focusing on business litigation, regulatory compliance, land use, and ethics. From 2000 to 2003, she chaired the Administrative Law division of the City of Philadelphia Law Department. Appointed to the Philadelphia Court of Common Pleas in 2016, she was elected to a ten-year term in 2017. Judge Tsai has presided over cases across criminal, civil, orphan’s, and family court divisions. She has also been active in pro bono work advocating for voting rights, immigrant rights, and civil rights throughout her career.
Policy Positions
Judge Tsai’s philosophy is grounded in integrity, transparency, consistency, and empathy. She is committed to ensuring a fair, accessible, and accountable judicial system that meets the needs of Pennsylvania’s diverse communities. As a candidate for the Commonwealth Court, she pledges to administer justice impartially and diligently.
Party Affiliation and Endorsements
Stella Tsai is a member of the Democratic Party and has received endorsements from the Pennsylvania Democratic Party, the Philadelphia AFL-CIO, and the Pennsylvania State Education Association – Public Employee Union (PSEA-PACE), among others. She is also highly recommended by the Philadelphia Bar Association and has earned numerous professional awards and recognitions from legal associations.
