Lehigh Valley Dems back Browne appointment to Department of Revenue

Governor-elect Josh Shapiro-D has reached out across party lines and appointed former State Sen. Pat Browne, R-Lehigh, to lead the state’s Department of Revenue. 

Browne’s appointment to the post of secretary is getting backed by members of his democratic, Lehigh Valley delegation representatives as well. 

State Reps. Mike Schlossberg, D-Allentown, Peter Schweyer, D-Allentown, and Josh Siegel, D-Allentown, offered their support for the appointment. 

 “The people of Allentown, the Lehigh Valley and Pennsylvania will all benefit from Gov.-elect Shapiro’s appointment of former Senator Browne. Pat Browne has been a champion for the Lehigh Valley for years,” the three state reps said in a statement. “He’s worked across the aisle to advance increased investments in early learning, community schools, revitalization in our cities and towns and helped to put the Lehigh Valley on the map as a force for economic growth in the commonwealth.” 

They said those are not Democrat or Republican priorities, but Pennsylvania priorities. 

 “Pat’s a Republican. We’re Democrats. Gov.-elect Shapiro understands he needs to work with Republicans and Democrats to do the good work that will benefit us all. Selecting experienced and knowledgeable people like Pat Browne to lead a critical department shows a commitment to doing the difficult and important work we all were elected to do,” the statement said. 

The representatives said that the Department of Revenue needs steady leadership right now.  

Taxpayers and tax preparers have voiced their displeasure at the long waits for routine processing and refunds, they said.  

People are saying they can rarely reach a service representative for assistance.  

“The department has significant needs. Pat Browne’s professional experience and work as a legislator will be important for making needed improvements to help taxpayers. As important, we look forward to continuing to work with Pat and Gov.-elect Shapiro to advance investments in education and continue to grow the economic base of our region and Pennsylvania,” they said.