HARRISBURG, November 17, 2010 — State Senator Jim Brewster took the oath of office today pledging to lead by example, fight for his constituents and work to create jobs and improve education.
Brewster, a Democrat, won a Nov. 2 special election to serve the final two years of the term vacated by former Senator Sean Logan. Logan resigned in August to accept a position with the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center.

“My top priority will be to address the needs of the people who live in our region,” Brewster said. “I will work hard, seek positive results and be responsible with tax dollars. I will strive to make a difference and have a positive impact on job development, education advancement and efforts to rebuild our local communities,” Brewster said.

He pledged that he will not accept:

  • a daily per diem;
  • a vehicle provided by the state; or
  • any cost of living increase or pay hike.

Brewster said he would continue to staff district offices in Monroeville (412) 380-2242, McKeesport (412) 664-5200 and New Kensington (724) 334-1143.

“I am excited about this opportunity and look forward to doing what I can to help families,” Brewster said. “I will work to improve the Pittsburgh region’s business and jobs climate, cut property taxes and make government more efficient and responsive.”

Brewster, 62, has been the mayor of McKeesport for the last seven years and served on city council for 10 years prior to that. He was also vice president of operations at Mellon Bank for 27 years.
Family and friends joined the McKeesport lawmaker at the Capitol ceremony today. Brewster represents the 45th Senatorial District, which includes parts of Allegheny and Westmoreland counties.

Brewster is a graduate of the Community College of Allegheny County and California University of Pennsylvania. He and his wife, Linda Leah, have three daughters and four grandchildren.

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