Westmoreland Review

In a bid to continue fostering collaboration and bipartisanship, Representatives Jill Cooper (R-Westmoreland), Joe Hohenstein (D-Philadelphia), Gina Curry (D-Delaware), and Jamie Flick (R-Lycoming/Union) have reintroduced the Bipartisan “Meet Me in the Middle” Caucus for the 2025-26 Legislative Session. The caucus aims to bring members from both parties together to engage with people, nonprofit organizations, civic groups, and businesses across Pennsylvania.

During the previous legislative session, the caucus conducted activities such as touring a senior center and hosting an information meeting on the dangers of pornography for children. They achieved success with Act 52 of 2023, which facilitates school districts in hosting dual enrollment programs.

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

Flick previously served as a co-chair for two years, while Hohenstein and Curry now serve as Democrat co-chairs, replacing Kinsey and former Rep. Patty Kim who is now in the Pennsylvania Senate.

“I am pleased to join my colleagues in showing what we can do when we come together in a spirit of openness and dialogue,” stated Hohenstein. He noted that his first bill became law due to efforts with his co-prime sponsor, Rep. Jason Ortitay.

The caucus encourages participation from all House members to bridge divides and promote effective governance through dialogue and cooperation among party members.

“I'm honored to co-chair the Bipartisan ‘Meet Me in the Middle’ Caucus with my fellow colleagues, which focuses on collaboration,” said Curry. She emphasized the importance of unity during challenging times to meet constituent needs across Pennsylvania.

The four co-chairs represent different political parties and communities ranging from rural areas to urban neighborhoods, offering diverse perspectives on how the General Assembly can be helpful.

“I am once again thrilled to be a co-chair of the Bipartisan ‘Meet Me in the Middle’ Caucus,” Flick expressed. He mentioned that over 50 House members joined their mission last session for finding common ground between Republicans and Democrats.