Pa. House will hold special election to replace the late Rep. Mike Reese
A special election will be held to fill the seat left vacant by the death of Rep. Mike Reese, Pennsylvania’s House speaker announced Tuesday. The election will coincide with the May 18 primary.
Rep. Bryan Cutler, R-Lancaster, ordered a special election be held to replace Mr. Reese in the 59th Legislative District, which covers parts of Westmoreland and Somerset counties.
Mr. Reese, 42, died Jan. 2 from a brain aneurysm. The Republican was first elected to represent the 59th House District in 2008, replacing Jess Stairs, who retired.
“Rep. Reese set an example for every legislator to follow, and he is greatly missed in the chamber by members and close friends on both sides of the aisle,” said Mr. Cutler in a release. “His commitment to his family and his constituents could never be questioned, and he leaves enormous shoes to fill on our House Republican leadership team.”
According to the release, candidates will be selected by “a process designated by their respective parties.” The winner will take office after the results are confirmed.
The Harrisburg office for the 59th District will remain open “to assist constituents with issues or problems and to continue constituent inquiries already in progress. The office will remain open until a new representative takes office and decides how to manage the district,” the release said.
Also, constituents can continue to reach the district’s offices in Mount Pleasant — 2230 Mount Pleasant Road — by phone at 724-423-6503 and at Ligonier Town Hall — 120 E. Main St. — by phone at 724238-2155.