Crash course ahead for some newly-elected state House members

(Lancaster) — Republicans are expanding their majorities in Pennsylvania in both the state House and Senate. Some of the winners have to go through a crash course in serving in the General Assembly.

Republican David Zimmerman has been a politician for more than 20 years, but never at the state-level.

“Ah we’re really going to need to get situated, get an office in place, and kinda learn everything about responding to Harrisburg,” he says.

Zimmerman romped to a win over Democrat Bryan Sanguinito in the 99th House District in Lancaster County, which includes East Earl, Ephrata and Salisbury townships.

Zimmerman says his work as a township supervisor for more than 20 years prepares him for the move to Harrisburg.

“Certainly more responsibilities and a bit higher profile, but with everything that I’ve done on the local level and the various county boards and committees that I’ve been involved in, think I’m well positioned to jump in and work with the team,” he says.

The seat was vacated by a Republican, as was the one in the county’s 41st House District.

It includes Manor, Conestoga, and East Hempfield townships.

Brett Miller toppled Alice Yoder by about 20 points – according to unofficial tallies.

Although no legislative seats in the midstate changed parties, Republicans picked up eight state House seats.

Miller says Democratic Governor-elect Tom Wolf will have to work with them.

“On one level, it is again then reinforcing some of the Republican ideals that need to be advanced, and I think that’s going to be an agenda item for the leadership,” he says.

Miller indicates he’s willing to try to find areas of common ground.

“It’s still going to have to be a bipartisan effort to get things done, so I’m hopeful much will be able to be accomplished by working together.”

But the governor-elect will face a challenge with dealing with GOP lawmakers who saw their majorities grow in both chambers. The Associated Press projects the GOP will add eight seats in the PA House and three in the PA Senate.