Rep. Joanna McClinton (D-Philadelphia/Delaware) was elected the first woman to serve as speaker of the Pennsylvania State House of Representatives in the chambers near 250-year history.
During remarks in the House chamber, McClinton acknowledged the history being made and her commitment to bipartisanship. She thanked her colleagues for their support.
“In my career, I’ve been blessed to achieve other ‘firsts’ in this chamber, and I am equally honored to serve as this historic body’s first woman speaker,” McClinton said. “I stand before you today, humbled and honored to be elected your speaker, and most importantly, my election today makes me more hopeful about the future of our commonwealth and our communities.
“I’m confident if we collaborate rather than criticize, debate rather than disparage and replace shortsighted political gain with sincere cooperation – this body can do better – and will do better. Today can be our fresh start. Each of us is here because our neighbors have placed their trust in us. And that collective trust is what empowers us to act in the interest of our communities and to advance Pennsylvania for the common good.”
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