HARRISBURG – Sen. Lisa Baker (R-20) officially seconded the nomination of Sen. Kim Ward (R-39) yesterday to serve as interim president pro tempore of the Pennsylvania Senate from Dec. 1, 2024, until Jan. 6, 2025. The Senate will hold an official vote to select the president pro tempore for the next legislative session on Tuesday, Jan. 7, 2025. Ward, who has served as president pro tempore since 2022, previously held the position of majority leader.
Baker highlighted Ward’s distinguished service, groundbreaking accomplishments and her steadfast dedication to Pennsylvania’s citizens.
“Kim’s journey in public service is a testament to resilience and dedication. Her life’s work has earned her the respect and trust of colleagues on both sides of the aisle. During the past 25 years, she has served in the Schweiker administration, held local and county offices, and led in the Senate as a Republican leader and colleague. She was also the first woman to serve as both majority leader and an institutional officer in the General Assembly. Beyond her official roles, she is a devoted daughter, wife, mother, and ‘Kiki.’”
Ward made history in 2008 as the first woman elected to represent Pennsylvania’s 39th Senatorial District. Before joining the Senate, she served as a Westmoreland County commissioner and a Hempfield Township supervisor.
“In every role, Kim has led with grit, integrity and a deep commitment to her constituents,” Baker said. “She inspires collaboration and compassion, always focused on what’s best for Pennsylvania. As the face of the Senate, she represents us with strength and humility, fostering an uncommon spirit of bipartisanship that is evident in our achievements this session.”
As president pro tempore, Ward holds key responsibilities, including appointing chairpersons and members to the Senate’s 22 standing committees, presiding over the Senate in the lieutenant governor’s absence and assuming the role of lieutenant governor if that office becomes vacant. She is also responsible for assigning bills and resolutions to Senate committees for consideration.
CONTACT: Jennifer Wilson