Westmoreland Review

In Harrisburg, Reps. Jill Cooper (R-Westmoreland), Joe Hohenstein (D-Philadelphia), Gina Curry (D-Delaware), and Jamie Flick (R-Lycoming/Union) have announced the reintroduction of the Bipartisan "Meet Me in the Middle" Caucus for the 2025-26 Legislative Session. This initiative aims to promote collaboration and bipartisanship among lawmakers.

The caucus previously engaged in activities such as touring a senior center and hosting an informational meeting on children's exposure to pornography. It also achieved legislative success with Act 52 of 2023, facilitating dual enrollment programs in school districts.

The purpose of the caucus is to unite members from both parties to listen to individuals, nonprofit organizations, civic groups, and businesses across Pennsylvania. The goal is to address issues collectively while respecting each member's legislative beliefs.

"Results matter," stated Cooper. "When constituents contact their legislator’s office with concerns, they are not interested in partisan explanations; they want to know what 'we' are doing." She noted her achievement in co-authoring Act 52 of 2023 through a partnership with former co-chair Rep. Stephen Kinsey.

Jamie Flick served as a co-chair during the last session, while Hohenstein and Curry now take on Democratic co-chair roles following Kinsey's retirement and Patty Kim's move to the Pennsylvania Senate.

“I am pleased to join my colleagues in showing what we can do when we come together,” said Hohenstein. He highlighted his success with the Disability Inclusive Curriculum law, which passed due to cooperation with Rep. Jason Ortitay.

The caucus encourages participation from all House members, aiming to bridge divides through dialogue and cooperation.

“I'm honored to co-chair the Bipartisan ‘Meet Me in the Middle’ Caucus,” said Curry. “It is critical that we come together...to meet the needs of our constituents.”

Flick expressed enthusiasm about continuing his role as co-chair: “Our constituents benefit when Republicans and Democrats work together.”

The four co-chairs represent diverse communities across Pennsylvania, offering varied perspectives on effective governance within the General Assembly.