HARRISBURG, Pa. — On Tuesday, members of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives’ Republican caucus selected Jesse Topper, a five-term representative from rural Bedford County, to serve as their floor leader for the upcoming two-year session starting in 2025.

The decision, made during a private voting session, places Topper at the helm of the 101-seat minority party. His district also includes parts of Fulton County, and he currently holds the position of the ranking Republican on the Education Committee. Topper has a unique background, having been homeschooled in his early years, and he later pursued higher education at Frostburg State University in Maryland.

After the election, fellow Republican Rep. Tim Bonner from Mercer County praised Topper for his extensive knowledge of legislative matters, effective communication abilities, and a strong understanding of institutional history.

Notably, Republican Leader Bryan Cutler, previously the speaker for over two years until 2022, opted not to pursue the top leadership position within the caucus once again. In other updates, Rep. Jim Struzzi from Indiana County emerged victorious over Rep. Seth Grove from York County, assuming the role of the ranking Republican on the Appropriations Committee.

Two years ago, Democrats regained the House majority by a narrow margin of one seat after over ten years in the minority. With no districts changing hands in last week’s election, the Democratic party will return to session in January with a slight edge of 102 to 101.

Democratic lawmakers have reelected their Majority Leader, Matt Bradford from Montgomery County, as well as Appropriations Chairman Jordan Harris from Philadelphia. Additionally, Rep. Joanna McClinton of Philadelphia is poised to retake the position of speaker.