Preceded by John Perzel Spouse Caitlyn Boyle Religion Roman Catholic Political party Democratic Party | Website Official website Siblings Brendan Boyle Name Kevin Boyle Nieces Abigail Boyle | |
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Born February 7, 1980 (age 44)
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, U.S. ( 1980-02-07 ) Residence Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, U.S. Alma mater La Salle University
Harvard University Education La Salle University, Harvard University | ||
Kevin J. Boyle (born February 7, 1980) is a member of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives. He is the state Representative from Pennsylvania House District 172, which covers parts of Northeast Philadelphia. Kevin was elected to the House of Representatives in November 2010 when he ran against 32-year incumbent and former Speaker of the Pennsylvania House John Perzel. Kevin is the younger brother of United States Representative Brendan F. Boyle and together they are the only set of brothers to serve simultaneously in Pennsylvania's House of Representatives in its 300-year history.
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Early life
Kevin is the son of Francis Boyle, an Irish immigrant who came to America at age 19, and Eileen Boyle. He was raised in the Olney section of Philadelphia, and attended Cardinal Dougherty High School. He later attended La Salle University in Philadelphia, earning a bachelor's degree in political science. He went on to earn a master's degree in educational policy from Harvard University. After graduating from Harvard, he worked at a national foster care agency, the Alliance for Children and Families, in Washington, D.C.
Political career
Kevin began his involvement in Philadelphia politics by serving as campaign manager for older brother Brendan's campaigns for the state legislature. In 2007, Kevin became Legislative Director to City Councilman Bill Greenlee, a role Boyle held until 2010 when he stepped down from the job to run his own race for State Representative.
In 2010, Boyle entered a three-way Democratic Primary in the 172nd state legislative district. The other two candidates were Democratic activist Tim Kearney and school teacher and community activist, Daniel Collins. Boyle finished first, beating both of his opponents by 30-point margins. In the general election, he faced former Speaker of the House John Perzel, who was seeking re-election despite his involvement in the "Bonusgate" scandal. Boyle won the election against Perzel, capturing 53.8% to Perzel's 46.1%. It was a significant upset that bucked the strong Republican winds blowing in 2010. Boyle was sworn in as the Representative from the 172nd PA House district in January 2011.
In 2012, Boyle was challenged in the Democratic Primary. His opponent was once again Daniel Collins, who was endorsed by the Philadelphia FOP and many other city unions. Boyle again defeated Collins, winning 66% of the vote to Collins' 34%. In the general election, Boyle faced Republican Al Taubenberger. Boyle easily won re-election, defeating Taubenberger 68% to 32%.
Personal
The Philadelphia Daily News selected Kevin for its list of rising political stars within Philadelphia. Kevin's brother, Brendan, was also selected for the list. In 2012 the Community College of Philadelphia awarded Kevin for his community leadership.
Kevin and his wife, Caitlyn, live in the Fox Chase neighborhood of Philadelphia.