HARRISBURG – Senate Republicans re-elected their entire leadership team today to continue serving in the 2025-26 legislative session.
Sen. Kim Ward (R-39) has been re-elected to serve as interim Senate President Pro Tempore from Dec. 1 until Jan. 6. On Tuesday, Jan. 7, the Senate will vote for a President Pro Tempore to serve for the new two-year legislative session.
The President Pro Tempore is responsible for appointing the chairpersons and members of the 22 standing committees of the Senate and serves as an ex-officio member of all committees. She presides over the Senate floor when the Lieutenant Governor is unavailable and fills the position of Lieutenant Governor if the office becomes vacant. The office also refers bills and resolutions to the appropriate Senate committees for consideration.
“First and foremost, I wish to express appreciation to my Senate colleagues for re-electing me as interim President Pro Tempore. But more importantly, together, we need to hit the ground running to tackle the real challenges facing Pennsylvania. Pennsylvanians don’t want disruption or divided government fueled by partisanship; they want a balanced government – that prioritizes economic growth and job creation, safeguards their constitutional rights, and addresses the rising costs of essentials like food and utilities. Each of us was elected by constituents who want us to work together to achieve these goals, and it’s our duty to do just that. I look forward to charting a path with my republican and democrat colleagues to pass meaningful legislation that advances our Commonwealth and helps the people we represent.”
Sen. Joe Pittman (R-41) was re-elected Senate Majority Leader. His duties include overseeing the legislative agenda, developing policies and strategies for the Senate Republican caucus and playing a key role in floor debates. He also has a major role in negotiating issues with the administration and House of Representatives and coordinating action on the Senate floor.
“I am honored to have been re-elected by my colleagues to continue to serve as Senate Majority Leader for the upcoming 2025-26 legislative session. Throughout the last two years, our Senate Republican majority has worked to empower Pennsylvanians and place our Commonwealth on a strong financial path. We stood together to stop massive spending increases proposed by Democrats and to uphold our Constitution. As we look to the new session, our efforts as a 28-member majority will continue to focus on advancing a pro-growth, pro-law enforcement agenda, and to grow our economy and population in a smart and sustainable way for the future.”
Sen. Ryan Aument (R-36) was re-elected Majority Whip. The duties include acting as assistant floor leader, working to gain support for legislation and ensuring that Republican policies and strategies are maintained through the cooperative efforts of the majority caucus.
“Pennsylvanians sent a strong message from the ballot box on Nov. 5 by voting to maintain the Republican majority in the Pennsylvania Senate, and we are honored to represent them and eager to advocate on their behalf for this next term. Our leadership team has heard their message loud and clear and is prepared to work hard advancing a solid conservative agenda for the people of Pennsylvania while also acting as a power check on House Democrats and Gov. Shapiro.”
Sen. Scott Martin (R-13) was re-elected to serve as Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee. The committee reviews all legislation for its fiscal impact and plays a crucial role in negotiating and developing the state budget. Each year, the panel holds a series of public hearings with leaders of state departments and agencies to study the governor’s budget proposal and ensure taxpayer dollars are being utilized properly.
“For years, Senate Republicans have fought to protect taxpayers by passing fiscally responsible budgets and rejecting irresponsible increases in spending. As we face significant economic and demographic challenges in the years ahead, we must continue to fight to support working families and make Pennsylvania a better place to live, work and raise a family. I am grateful that my colleagues have placed their trust in me to continue to play a leading role in that process.”
Sen. Kristin Phillips-Hill (R-28) was re-elected as Majority Caucus Chair. The chair presides over Republican caucus meetings to discuss bills and amendments and to develop caucus strategy.
“I am honored by the trust my colleagues have placed in me to continue serving in this role. By prioritizing transparency, accountability and effective solutions, I look forward to working together to strengthen our communities, support Pennsylvania’s families and build a brighter future for our Commonwealth.”
Sen. Camera Bartolotta (R-46) was re-elected Senate Majority Caucus Secretary to oversee all executive nominations submitted to the Senate for confirmation. She will coordinate the review of the background and experience of nominees and ensure that proper documentation is submitted.
“It has been my honor to have been selected by my colleagues as a member of the Senate Majority Caucus Leadership team for the past four years. During that time, we remained unified and vigilant in advancing our collective goals, caucus policy and legislative priorities. I am grateful to, once again, be chosen as part of this team for the upcoming 2025-26 legislative session and I look forward to continuing those efforts and to hold the Shapiro Administration accountable on behalf of all Pennsylvanians.”
CONTACTS:
Erica Clayton Wright (Sen. Ward)
Kate Flessner (Sen. Pittman)
Stephanie Applegate (Sen. Aument)
Jason Thompson (Sen. Martin)
Jon Hopcraft (Sen. Phillips-Hill)
Katrina Hanna (Sen Bartolotta)