West Central PA News

Senate Republicans in Pennsylvania have re-elected their leadership team for the upcoming 2025-26 legislative session. The announcement was made in Harrisburg, with Sen. Kim Ward (R-39) continuing as interim Senate President Pro Tempore from December 1 until January 6. On January 7, the Senate will vote to elect a President Pro Tempore for the new session.

The role of President Pro Tempore includes appointing chairpersons and members of the Senate's standing committees and serving as an ex-officio member of all committees. This position also presides over the Senate floor when the Lieutenant Governor is unavailable and fills that office if it becomes vacant.

Sen. Ward expressed gratitude to her colleagues, stating, "First and foremost, I wish to express appreciation to my Senate colleagues for re-electing me as interim President Pro Tempore." She emphasized the need for collaboration across party lines to address economic growth, job creation, constitutional rights protection, and rising costs.

Sen. Joe Pittman (R-41) was re-elected as Senate Majority Leader. His responsibilities include overseeing the legislative agenda and playing a key role in negotiations with both the administration and House of Representatives. Pittman stated, "I am honored to have been re-elected by my colleagues to continue to serve as Senate Majority Leader."

Sen. Ryan Aument (R-36) continues as Majority Whip, tasked with gaining support for legislation within his caucus. He noted that Pennsylvanians had voted decisively on November 5th by maintaining a Republican majority in the state senate.

Sen. Scott Martin (R-13) remains Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, which reviews fiscal impacts of legislation and plays a significant role in budget development. Martin said he is grateful for his colleagues' trust in him during challenging economic times.

Majority Caucus Chair Sen. Kristin Phillips-Hill (R-28) reiterated her commitment to transparency and accountability: "I am honored by the trust my colleagues have placed in me."

Lastly, Sen. Camera Bartolotta (R-46), who oversees executive nominations submitted for confirmation as Majority Caucus Secretary, expressed her honor at being selected again: "It has been my honor to have been selected by my colleagues."