A rising Pennsylvania lawmaker who took a leadership position in the state’s Republican majority died on Saturday of an apparent cerebral aneurysm. Pennsylvania deputy Mike Reese was 42 years old.
Reese was re-elected on November 3 to represent Westmoreland and Somerset counties in western Pennsylvania, and was later elected to serve as chairman of the party’s caucus in the 2020-21 session, said CBS affiliate KDKA. He was first elected in 2008.
“I have known Mike since he took office in 2009 and I am proud to witness his many legislative achievements, especially his tireless work on behalf of Pennsylvania students and families,” wrote Pennsylvania House majority, Kerry Benninghoff, in a communicated. “Mike was a model lawmaker who put his voters first. Your spirit, presence and advice will be sorely missed. “
Reese announced on December 7 that his test was positive for the coronavirus. He said his symptoms were mild and that he was recovering.
A former teacher, Reese focused on education issues and was an advocate for charter schools, according to the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette.
He leaves his wife, Angela, and three children.