Ralph Acosta

Ralph D. Acosta (born September 28, 1934) is an American politician. He is a former Democratic member of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives.^[2] He was the first Latino to be elected to the state House.^[3]

Ralph D. Acosta
Member of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives from the 180th district
In office January 1, 1985 – November 30, 1994
Preceded by	James McIntyre
Succeeded by	Benjamin Ramos
Personal details
Born	(1934-09-28) September 28, 1934 (age 90)[1] Sabana Grande, Puerto Rico
Political party	Democratic

Background

Born in Sabana Grande, Puerto Rico on September 28, 1934, Acosta was professionally involved in long-haul trucking.^[4]

Political career

A Democrat, he was elected to the Pennsylvania House of Representatives for the 1985 term. The first Latino to be elected to the state House, he served a total of five consecutive terms. In 1995, he ran an unsuccessful campaign for reelection.^[5][6][7] During his tenure, Acosta was appointed as one of two vice chairs of the Pennsylvania Governor's Advisory Commission on Latino Affairs, serving under Governor Robert P. Casey. One of the concerns on which he focused was safe, affordable housing for senior citizens.^[8]

Acosta was succeeded by Benjamin Ramos.^[9]