WHAO!!! https://t.co/vLl3AFGLd1
— Major Patriot (@MajorPatriot) January 6, 2021
The Pennsylvania State Legislature’s new session got off to a chaotic start today when Republicans refused to seat a Democratic office holder whose victory was certified but is marred by allegations of fraud.
For now, Democratic State Sen. Jim Brewster, of Allegheny County will be prevented from taking the oath of office, as Republicans cite the need to let litigation over the outcome play out first.
Republicans also took the unusual step of removing the Democratic lieutenant governor, John Fetterman, from presiding over the session. They believe, they say, Fetterman was not following the rules and recognizing their legislative motions.
“With this reckless, out-of-control, cowboy-like behavior, with this Trumpian behavior that we saw today from Republicans … this does not bode well. It does not bode well for the people of Pennsylvania,” said Sen. Vince Hughes of Philadelphia, the ranking Democrat on the Senate Appropriations Committee.
“Democrats, in turn, responded by refusing to back Sen. Jake Corman (R., Centre) from assuming the chamber’s top leadership position — an unusual maneuver on what is most often a largely ceremonial and bipartisan vote,” reports The Philadelphia Inquirer.