The 183rd Legislative District has three candidates seeking a win in the May 20 Primary Election.

Incumbent state Rep. Julie Harhart, Republican, will square off against fellow Republican Marc Grammes.

Democrat Terri Powell's name is on the Democrat side of the ticket.

Harhart, who has served in the state House since 1994, said she is running for re-election to serve and assist the residents of the 183rd.

"I consider serving the public through this position to be one of the most effective ways I can help our communities," she said. "Every day is different with problems, challenges and new opportunities."

Harhart said voters should re-elect her because she is easily accessible and understands the needs and issues of the district.

"I believe actions speak louder than words and I believe my actions and record speak for me," she said.

Grammes, a U.S. Merchant Marine Academy graduate, Navy veteran and former Lehigh County commissioner, said he is running for state representative out of a duty to serve others.

"I'm running to make a difference in these difficult times in which we live, to protect our seniors and build a bright and prosperous future for generations to come," he said.

Grammes, a Washington Township resident who is a full-time employee as a power plant operator at Northampton Generating Company, also serves as a volunteer firefighter.

Grammes said he will support volunteer service providers such as firefighters and emergency responders.

"I know what it is all about to be called to serve and protect life and property, first hand," Grammes said. "I will always be there for the men and women of our fire and ambulance corps."

Powell, a Northampton County resident, said voters should consider her candidacy because she is not a career politician.

"I have held a regular job and can see the bigger picture for the district," she said. "I have been a volunteer for many organization my entire life and have fought for the under privileged."

Powell's experience in public service includes beginning the Northampton Area Democratic Group and running for Allen Township supervisor. She is employed with a title insurance company in Easton and owns her own company.

"I will listen to their [voters] concerns and act accordingly," she said. "I will not just sit back and collect a paycheck. I will work for my district."

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The 183rd District includes in Lehigh County, the townships of South Whitehall Districts 5, 6, 8; Washington; Whitehall Districts 7, 10, 11; and the Borough of Slatington. In Northampton County it Allen, Lehigh and Moore townships, Beersville and Kleck-nersville and the boroughs of North Catasauqua; Northampton; and Walnutport.