Laurel Highlands Today

Rep. Ryan Warner of Fayette County expressed strong dissatisfaction with the events that transpired on the opening day of the 2025-26 Legislative Session in Harrisburg. He criticized the manner in which proceedings were conducted, stating, "While we had debate on who our next speaker would be and on these House rules, elected members of this House were silenced and not recognized to make motions and to debate the rules of this House."

Warner described the situation as "borderline tyranny," emphasizing that it contradicts the principles upheld by both the Commonwealth and the country. He called it "an insult to our republic, and it is an insult to the rules of democracy."

The state House convened on January 7th to swear in 202 out of 203 members, with one member absent due to hospitalization. This absence resulted in an even split between Democrats and Republicans, each holding 101 seats. Despite this balance, Warner alleged that votes were pushed through without adequate discussion or explanation from members. He remarked, "Without a majority physically present in the House, votes were basically forced through without members having the opportunity to speak, debate or even clarify their votes." Warner insisted that constituents deserve more transparency and engagement from their representatives.