Brewster plans to file appeal with Senate

By JEFF STITT

jstitt@yourmvi.com

Sen. Jim Brewster, D-Mc-Keesport, finds it “astounding” that he wasn’t permitted to take his seat in the state Senate Tuesday.

The Senate’s Republican leadership made the decision because Brewster’s opponent, Nicole Ziccarelli of New Kensington, is contesting the race. The move set off a huge floor fight at the swearing-in ceremony.

“That simply isn’t fair to the district,” said Brewster, whose 69-vote victory in the November election was certified by Secretary of State Kathy Boockvar. 

Brewster contends he should have been sworn in based on the certification.

“If someone wanted to continue to pursue legal actions, that is their prerogative,” he said, adding that he would have dealt with and respected findings, rulings and judicial orders as they arose. 

Brewster plans to speak to Democrats and Republicans in an attempt to find a solution. He indicated legal action may be the next move.

“We are looking at the legal process to go to the Senate as (Ziccarelli) did asking them not to seat me,” Brewster told the Mon Valley Independent Thursday. “That wasn’t a judicial request. That was a specific request to the Senate. I am now going to make that same request, but for me to be seated. We are going to go back in a proper manner and explain our case for why we think that should happen.”

Brewster confirmed 45th District constituent offices are open. He said he’s been keeping in touch with district stakeholders and constituents who reach out to him via cell phone.

“I’m anxious to get back to work,” he said. “It’s going to work out.”

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