Pennsylvania Democrats Secure Full Control of State Government
The party has held the governorship and both legislative chambers since 1993, setting the stage for new legislation on wages and infrastructure.
By Nikolai Morales ·
Democratic candidates in Pennsylvania secured control of the state legislature and the governorship in the November 3 midterm elections. This victory marks the first time since 1993 that one party has held the trifecta of power in the commonwealth.
The party gained three seats in the state Senate on Tuesday night, establishing a majority of 26 seats. Control of the state House also expanded as Democrats added seven seats to their previous slim majority.
Supporters gathered on the steps of the state capitol in Harrisburg to celebrate the results. The shift ends a period of divided government where legislative progress was often stalled by disagreements between the chambers and the executive branch.
House Speaker Joanna McClinton outlined the legislative priorities that will move forward once the new sessions begin in January. She cited previous failures in passing bills due to a lack of compromise from Senate Republicans under the previous arrangement.
McClinton stated that the party intends to raise the minimum wage and provide funding for the state transit system. She also identified fair education funding and managing the growth of data centers as key goals for the General Assembly.
With control of both chambers and the governor's office, the Democratic leadership faces no internal state obstacles to advancing its legislative agenda in the coming year.
