Happy 4th of July, Pennsylvania! 

On this Independence Day, I’m thinking about where it all began: Philadelphia. The very heart of our democracy. It’s where bold leaders gathered nearly 250 years ago to declare freedom, equality, and justice for all.

But in 2025, those ideals are still under threat. From cruel immigration practices and efforts to strip citizenship from American citizens to attacks on our healthcare, voting rights, and reproductive health, we are witnessing injustice from this administration at every turn.

That’s why I believe the work we’re doing right here in Pennsylvania matters more than ever. As Speaker, I’m proud to lead a Democratic majority in the Pennsylvania House that’s defending our rights, delivering for working families, and standing up to extremism.

Pennsylvania is not just the place where ideals, courage, and a belief in something better built our nation in the past; we are the present and the future, fighting for those same core tenets of democracy today. 

So today, let’s celebrate the courage of those who lit the first sparks of liberty in Philadelphia — and recommit to keeping that flame burning strong.

Celebrate safely, 

Rep. Joanna McClinton 
Speaker of the Pennsylvania House