Senate Democratic Leader Jay Costa and Republican Leader Dominic Pileggi, both members of the Inaugural Committee, escort Jim Cawley from the Senate rostrum to the swearing-in of Gov. Tom Corbett.

This week, Pennsylvania's 46th governor took the oath of office. In his inauguration speech, Governor Corbett pledged to work in an efficient manner to reduce the deficit and reform government. I look forward to working with our new governor, bearing in mind that Pennsylvania is about to face what is arguably its most difficult budget debate in decades.

Creating new jobs and protecting the jobs that already exist in Pennsylvania will remain top priorities for me and my Democratic colleagues. With the many challenges facing Pennsylvania, including a budget deficit of at least $4 billion, we are anxious to begin working with Governor Corbett to address these issues.

Legislators from both parties, as well as the new governor, should carefully review and fully understand the impact that any proposed budget cuts may have on Pennsylvania’s working families. We need to be sure that in an effort to balance the budget, that we don’t overlook those men and women who have worked so hard to achieve their own financial security and provide for their families. Pennsylvanians are looking to all of us for bold and thoughtful solutions, and I hope we can work with the new governor to live up to our commitments to the citizens of Pennsylvania.

As always, please contact my office with any concerns you have as we begin this challenging budget process.

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