Will Trump’s victory shift the Republican agenda in Pennsylvania?

The Supreme Court’s recent rulings, including overturning Roe v. Wade and the 1984 Chevron doctrine, have significantly reshaped the political landscape. Trump has also pledged to combat anti-American indoctrination in schools. But can Pennsylvania’s Republican Party reclaim state power, or will it miss this opportunity?

If the COVID-19 lockdowns were any indication, the answer may be NO. Many Pennsylvania Republicans, including those in leadership, have prioritized donors over voters, continuing to “work across the aisle” while failing to stand against a Marxist shift in the Democratic platform.

Lawrence Tabas’ departure as Pennsylvania Republican Party Chair is a good first step. However, we must address how Republican leaders like Bryan Cutler, former Speaker of the House, used their positions for personal gain. During the pandemic, Cutler accepted donations from healthcare entities profiting off COVID-19 relief. His campaign finance reports show that, despite raising over $457,000, he spent more than $569,000. His connections with PACs, including the Operators for Skill PAC, which has lobbied heavily in Pennsylvania, further raise concerns.

Greg Rothman, a candidate for Republican state chair, is also linked to these PACs. Rothman, who was previously Cumberland County’s Republican chair, presided over a county that has seen a shift toward Democrats and rising taxes. His involvement with political committees, some with questionable ties to Democratic fundraising, calls into question his commitment to Pennsylvania’s Republican base.

Furthermore, the CCRC’s endorsement process has been marred by controversy, including the expulsion of dissenting members, which was ignored by state leadership.

The election of Mark Rozzi as Speaker of the House with support from 16 Republicans, including Sheryl Delozier of Cumberland County, is another betrayal. The Republican leadership must remember the hardships citizens endured during the pandemic, when politicians enriched themselves while ordinary Pennsylvanians suffered.

Pennsylvania voters sent a strong message by supporting Trump to reduce federal overreach. The Pennsylvania Republican Party now faces a choice: will it align with the voters’ mandate, or continue to ignore their concerns? It’s time for change—let’s make Pennsylvania truly beautiful.

Amy Khan

York County,  PA