Pennsylvania Perspective for Monday, December 9, 2024

December 9, 2024

Pennsylvania

Gov. Shapiro Calls for Bipartisanship at Annual PA Society Dinner

During his speech at the 126th Pennsylvania Society dinner, Governor Josh Shapiro emphasized the importance of bipartisan collaboration and overcoming political polarization to achieve the Commonwealth’s policy goals, such as education funding reforms and incentives for retaining college graduates. The annual charity dinner in Manhattan — as well as several satellite events — drew familiar and new faces, with U.S. Senator-elect Dave McCormick proving to be a breakout star and outgoing Senator Bob Casey celebrated for his 30-year career in public service.

PA Republicans Consider Running for Governor in 2026

Following Republicans’ statewide success during the 2024 election cycle, some, including U.S. Representative Dan Meuser (PA-09) and Treasurer Stacy Garrity, are reportedly considering running for governor in 2026, challenging the uncommonly popular Gov. Shapiro. The Philadelphia Inquirer has more.

Lt. Gov. Davis to Lead National Democratic Group

Pennsylvania Lieutenant Governor Austin Davis has been named chairman of the Democratic Lieutenant Governors Association, where he will focus on fundraising and supporting Democratic candidates nationwide. WESA has more.

Some PA Democrats Credit Local Focus for Down-Ballot Wins

Down-ballot Pennsylvania Democrats attribute their success in defending their standing in the state legislature to focusing on local economic issues and distancing themselves from the national party’s message. WESA has more.

Former Trump Adviser Ted Christian Announces Run for PA GOP Chair

Former Trump adviser Ted Christian, backed by venture capitalist Paul Martino, announced his candidacy for Pennsylvania GOP chair, challenging current chair Lawrence Tabas. The Philadelphia Inquirer has more.

PA’s Abandoned Coal Mines Pose Ongoing Safety, Environmental Challenges

Pennsylvania’s extensive history of coal mining has left behind numerous abandoned mines, posing significant safety and environmental concerns, with ongoing efforts and substantial federal funding aimed at mitigating these risks. The Pittsburgh Tribune-Review has more.

PA Senate Republicans to Reintroduce Transgender Sports Ban Bill

Republicans in the state Senate are planning to reintroduce the “Save Women’s Sports Act” to restrict transgender athletes in school sports, a move likely to face significant opposition and legal challenges. PennLive has more.

Philadelphia

Commonwealth Court Lifts Philadelphia Ban on Casino-Style “Skill Games”

Pennsylvania’s Commonwealth Court has lifted Philadelphia’s ban on casino-style “skill games” in convenience stores, pending further legal decisions and potential state legislation to regulate and tax the machines. The Philadelphia Inquirer has more.

Pittsburgh

Allegheny County Controller to Enter Pittsburgh Mayoral Race

Allegheny County Controller Corey O’Connor is expected to announce his candidacy for Pittsburgh mayor this week. The Pittsburgh Tribune-Review has more.

Federal

Beltway Briefing: “Move Fast & Break Things”

What will Trump 2.0 look like? Central to the incoming administration’s vision is the proposed Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), designed to streamline federal operations and eliminate bureaucratic roadblocks. What challenges could derail these ambitions? Listen to the latest episode featuring Public Strategies’ Howard Schweitzer, Mark Alderman, and Towner French here.

Trump’s PA Electors to Cast Votes on Dec. 17, Completing Electoral Process

President-elect Donald Trump’s electors will meet in Pennsylvania on December 17 to cast their votes, a ceremonial step in the Electoral College process following the certification of election results and the preparation of a certificate of ascertainment by Gov. Shapiro. Spotlight PA has more.

Lehigh Valley Congressional Race Cost Over $38M

The Lehigh Valley’s congressional race between Susan Wild and Ryan Mackenzie was one of the most expensive in the country, costing over $38 million, with significant spending from third-party organizations. LehighValleyNews.com has more.

Authors

About Cozen O’Connor Public Strategies

Cozen O’Connor Public Strategies, an affiliate of the international law firm Cozen O’Connor, is a bipartisan government relations practice representing clients before the federal government and in cities and states throughout the country. With offices in Washington D.C., Richmond, Albany, New York City, Philadelphia, Harrisburg, Chicago, and Santa Monica, the firm’s public strategies professionals offer a full complement of government affairs services, including legislative and executive branch advocacy, policy analysis, assistance with government procurement and funding programs, and crisis management. Its client base spans multiple industries, including healthcare, transportation, hospitality, education, construction, energy, real estate, entertainment, financial services, and insurance.

About Cozen O’Connor

Established in 1970, Cozen O’Connor has over 775 attorneys who help clients manage risk and make better business decisions. The firm counsels clients on their most sophisticated legal matters in all areas of the law, including litigation, corporate, and regulatory law. Representing a broad array of leading global corporations and middle-market companies, Cozen O’Connor serves its clients’ needs through 31 offices across two continents.

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