A Democrat in the Pennsylvania House of Representatives has died, the House Democratic Caucus announced Sunday night, resulting in a 101-101 partisan deadlock.
Rep. Matt Gargery (D-Allegheny) died Sunday.
He was 45 years old, House Democrats said.
Neither House Democrats nor Mr. Gergely's family have disclosed the cause, but two weeks ago, just days before he convened his biennial session earlier this month, he was diagnosed with a “medical condition requiring hospitalization.” It was announced that there was a state of emergency.
House Democrats gained a one-seat margin in November's election, the same one-seat margin Democrats held in the last Congress.
Gergely's death leaves the chamber tied 101-101 until a special election is held to fill the seat in the Democratic-heavy Pittsburgh area.
Over the past two sessions, the House Democratic majority has managed to navigate various legislative vacancies, at times slowing down the pace of legislation during the two-year session.
House Democrats said in a statement Sunday night that a special election to fill Gergely's seat will be called at a later date by Speaker Joanna McClinton (D-Philadelphia).
“While Matt will be missed in Harrisburg, we know his passing is a tremendous loss to the Western Pennsylvania community. At this tragic time, we Please join us in keeping his wife and family in our thoughts and prayers,” House Democrats said.
