It’s a new era in the Pennsylvania Capitol.
A new governor. Forty eight newly elected members in the state House.
After the November election, it appeared the Democratic Party reclaimed the majority in that chamber after more than a decade.
But not so fast: three Democratic resignations gave Republicans a functional majority until special elections will be held. The dates of those special elections are set by the Speaker — and until recently, there was no Speaker.
So, both parties claimed to have that authority, a subject tied up in litigation.
A new wrinkle emerged on Jan. 3: House members elected Rep. Mark Rozzi as Speaker. Rozzi is a Democrat who has pledged to be independent, and will not caucus with either party.
It remains to be seen whether Rozzi will change his party affiliation to Independent. Such a change would mean that when the special elections are finally held and the House returns to full complement, there would be:
- 101 Republicans
- 101 Democrats
- One Independent
- No clear majority
If Rozzi technically remains a Democrat, the House makeup will be 102 Democrats to 101 Republicans.
While many questions remain, this is a time of opportunity and maybe some consternation for anyone dependent on legislative action and policy. It’s a time when the drumbeat Bravo has pounded since our founding becomes deafening: When you need a friend, it’s too late to make one.
Consider:
- It’s prime time to influence policy agendas. The Pennsylvania Capitol is currently a House divided, a GOP Senate and a new Democratic governor establishing his administration. By having a seat at the table, you can help ensure your priorities are reflected in administrative and legislative agendas.
- Tax revenue interests everyone. With Pennsylvania ending the calendar year flush with cash, policymakers are sure to have big plans for this year’s budget priorities. New political dynamics make it even more important to engage early in what promises to be an eventful budget cycle.
- Approach issues from multiple angles. A government relations team nurtures bipartisan relationships inside the dome while a communications team builds external influential constituencies to put the pressure on. Together, these forces drive action.
- Think relationships, not transactions. Establishing true connections with your audiences and a broad array of elected officials and policymakers is the way to make progress in people’s lives.
An untold number of dynamics at play have created some uncertainty, but they’ve also created this window of opportunity. It’s time to make some new friends.
