Gov. Wolf calls PA Senate's refusal to seat Jim Brewster 'unethical and undemocratic'

HARRISBURG, Pa. (WJAC) — Gov. Tom Wolf is calling Republicans’ refusal to seat Democrat Jim Brewster in the Pennsylvania State Senate “unethical and undemocratic.”

Both the House and Senate chambers swore in their newly elected members Tuesday.

Republicans, who hold majorities in both chambers, refused to seat Sen. Jim Brewster of Allegheny County as the duly elected Senator from the 45th Senate District.

Brewster’s election has been certified by the state but is being contested by Republican challenger Nicole Ziccarelli over mail in ballots.

Read Gov. Wolf’s full statement below:

“Republicans in Pennsylvania and nationally have spread disinformation and used it to subvert the democratic process. Sen. Jim Brewster rightfully won the 45th Senate District, but Senate Republicans are ignoring the voters in the district and refusing to swear him in as Senator. This is a shameful power grab that disgraces the institution.

“It is simply unethical and undemocratic to leave the district without a voice simply because the Republicans don’t like the outcome of the election. Voters, not Harrisburg politicians, decided this election, and Sen. Brewster is the rightful winner.

“All ballots were counted and certified, and the results are accurate. Sen. Brewster received the most votes in this race and should be sworn in as the Senator for the 45th District. There is no precedent, and no legal rationale, for failing to do so.

“I will do everything in my power to ensure that voters have the final say in elections.”

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