Pennsylvania voters will decide state Senate races Tuesday that could reshape the balance of power in Harrisburg, as Democrats seek control of both legislative chambers and Republicans work to protect their majority.
Control of the state Senate
Republicans hold a 27-23 advantage in the Senate, where half the seats are up for election. Gov. Josh Shapiro and fellow Democrats have discussed the possibility of a “trifecta” — holding the governor’s office and majorities in both the state House and Senate.
State Sen. Greg Rothman, chairman of the Pennsylvania Republican Party, said he is optimistic about his reelection prospects and his party’s chances of retaining Senate control.
“We’ve knocked on hundreds of thousands of doors, made lots of calls. We spent money on our candidates,” Rothman said.
U.S. Sen. Dave McCormick joined Rothman and Republican House candidates at a Cumberland County event ahead of the election. Rothman’s district includes parts of Cumberland and Dauphin counties and all of Perry County.
Rothman argued that a Republican Senate majority would help prevent what he described as irresponsible Democratic spending and lawmaking. He pointed to Virginia, claiming Democrats there had raised taxes, restricted gun rights and expanded government.
Key Senate races
Democrat Nathan Wood is challenging Rothman. Wood, who campaigned last week with Shapiro and legislative Democrats, said a change in Senate control could help advance priorities including an increase in the minimum wage and regulation of data centers.
“This is an area that’s not seen a lot of movement in large part, I believe, because of the Senate Republicans,” Wood said of data center regulation.
Republicans also hope to win the Lancaster County seat held by Democratic Sen. James Malone. State Rep. Tom Jones is challenging Malone.
Rothman said he hopes Republican candidates can overcome political headwinds related to gas prices and the economy and gain ground in both legislative chambers.