Merski, Harkins unanimously re-elected to Northwest Delegation leadership roles
Merski will continue as chairman; Harkins re-elected as secretary
Rep. Patrick J. Harkins November 13, 2024 | 2:43 PM
ERIE, Nov. 13 – State Reps. Bob Merski and Pat Harkins, both D-Erie, today announced they were unanimously elected to continue in leadership roles in the state House Northwest Democratic Delegation, with Merski re-elected to serve as chairman and Harkins re-elected to serve as secretary for the 2025-26 legislative session.
Both lawmakers said they plan to continue steering the delegation in ways that will help the region’s working families.
“I am deeply humbled and grateful for the trust and confidence my colleagues have placed in me to continue to lead the Northwest Delegation as chair,” Merski said. “Together, we have made tremendous strides in addressing the unique needs and challenges of our region, and I am excited to continue this important work.”
Harkins said: “We are ready to continue rolling up our sleeves for the people of the commonwealth, and particularly the Erie region. Being re-elected as secretary for the Northwest Delegation is a privilege, and I am committed to working tirelessly to continue building on the incredible momentum we have established over the last several years.”
In addition to Merski and Harkins, the Northwest Delegation leadership team includes state Reps. Frank Burns, D-Cambria, who was unanimously re-elected as treasurer, and state Rep. Paul Takac, D-Centre, who was unanimously re-elected as vice chair.
The delegation is a coalition of House lawmakers representing Erie and northwest Pennsylvania.
Merski has been chairman since February 2022, while Harkins previously served as secretary and treasurer in past legislative sessions.