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State Rep. Larry Roberts won re-election in the 51st District Tuesday, in the first election since 1994 in which he has faced an opponent in the general election.

With 33 of 34 precincts reporting, Roberts had 7,572 votes, compared to Republican challenger Joe Sabatini's 4,196.

Roberts, a Fayette County Democrat, was first elected to the House in 1992, when he defeated longtime Democratic incumbent Fred Taylor in the primary and Republican challenger Gloria Saloom in the general election.

"It's been an honor and a pleasure representing the district for the past 10 years," Roberts said. "I felt pretty confident about winning."

Roberts received a number of endorsements, including one from the National Rifle Association. The victor complimented his opponent for running a clean campaign, during which Sabatini brought up some interesting theories, Roberts said.

"He's proven himself to be a gentleman. I applaud him for that," Roberts said. "I might need to talk with him about some of his ideas."

Roberts, 60, of South Union Township, defeated first-time candidate Terry Janosek in this year's Democratic primary.

Sabatini, 51, also a South Union resident, congratulated his opponent and thanked those who voted for him.

"I knew it would be an uphill battle. We had no money" and only limited resources, he said.

Roberts said he looks forward to continuing his push to eliminate the property tax.

"The reason it's my number-one priority is my constituents tell me it's their number-one priority," said Roberts, who touts his close alignment with the voters.

Roberts said he also is hoping to get two amendments passed next week that call for strengthening the state Board of Certified Real Estate Appraisers. One amendment would include two members of the general public to be part of the board, while the other would increase the number of professional appraisers on the board.

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