November 13, 2026 – Yesterday, Pennsylvania Senate Democrats elected Senator Vincent Hughes (D- Philadelphia/Montgomery) as Majority Chairman of the Senate Appropriations Committee for the 2027-2028 legislative session. Senator Hughes released the following statement after the vote.
“I’m thankful to my fellow Senate Democrats for electing me Majority Chairman of the Senate Appropriations Committee. I am honored that they have placed their trust in me to help lead this historic Senate Democratic majority in the next session. I look forward to working with them to make a profound and meaningful impact across Pennsylvania.
“We have a lot of work to do. I am confident that in working with Governor Shapiro, House Democrats, and the minority party, we will make Pennsylvania an even better place to raise a family, get a quality, affordable education and get a good-paying job. In my role as Appropriations Chairman, I am eager to begin crafting a state budget that is responsible and balanced and that meets the moment for Pennsylvanians.
“Let me be clear – while my role has changed, my priorities have not.
“I remain focused on pursuing policies that will bring down the cost of living for Pennsylvanians and put more money in their pockets. I remain committed to enacting budgets that fully fund our schools and public transit systems, strengthen our social safety net, rebuild our infrastructure, and invest in job creation. I remain willing to work with anyone who wants to tackle big issues like improving access to affordable housing, reducing poverty, and eliminating gun violence.
“These priorities are not new for me or my fellow Senate Democrats. We’ve been fighting for them for years. Under Senate Republican leadership, the Senate was a place where good ideas went to die. That will end on January 5, 2027, when Democrats lead the Senate and we start to get stuff done.”
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