‘Grateful for the opportunity to lead.’ Bellefonte’s Benninghoff to assume new role in Pa. House
The GOP-controlled House of Representatives named a new majority leader on Monday, someone Centre County residents will recognize — Bellefonte’s own Kerry Benninghoff.
Now serving his 24th year in the House, Benninghoff will leave his post as majority whip — a role he was elected to in 2018 — and succeed Rep. Bryan Cutler, R-Lancaster County. Cutler was elected speaker and now presides over the chamber. The mid-term shakeup was prompted by former speaker Mike Turzai’s resignation last week.
“I am absolutely humbled by their support and grateful for the opportunity to lead, but most importantly, for the opportunity to serve,” Benninghoff said in a statement. “It is no secret that we are in challenging times right now as a state and as a nation, and I covet your prayers for greater wisdom, understanding and cooperation. If we work together to find solutions to the challenges we face, I truly believe that our best days as a commonwealth are ahead of us.”
Benninghoff formerly served two terms as chairman of the Republican Policy Committee and chaired the finance and state government committees.
Terms will run until November, which marks the end of the legislative session. Benninghoff is also running for reelection against Democratic challenger and former Ferguson Township supervisor Peter Buck.
Senate Majority Leader Jake Corman congratulated Benninghoff on his election Monday evening.
“Kerry’s story is one of hard work and dedication that includes overcoming hardship to achieve great things. Over the years, Kerry has worked to build relationships with his colleagues,” Corman said in a statement. “As a result, they respect his leadership and ability to move Pennsylvania forward — just as I do. From day one in Harrisburg, I have worked closely with Kerry to serve the people of Centre County. I look forward to using that strong relationship to help guide Pennsylvania into the future.”
This story was originally published June 23, 2020 at 6:00 AM.
