Pennsylvania Rep. Matt Gergely passed away on Sunday, January 19. He had experienced a medical emergency over the holidays. The House Democrat Caucus announced the news.

Gergely was a husband and father. He represented the 35th district in Allegheny county. He was highly involved in his community of McKeesport before getting elected to the House in 2023, then re-elected a few months ago. He was an advocate for children and working families. He had two pieces of legislation pass; Act 6 which protected plasma donation and Act 57 that updates regulations around liquor licensed establishments.

Many lawmakers have offered condolences, saying he was a representative who won respect and friends on both sides of the political aisle.

House Democrat leadership released the following statement:

“Our hearts are broken as we mourn the untimely loss of our friend and colleague. Matt Gergely devoted his life to fighting for children and working families of Allegheny County – especially his beloved hometown of McKeesport. Matt will be desperately missed in Harrisburg and we know his passing is a tremendous loss to his communities in Western Pennsylvania. Please join us in keeping his wife and his family in your thoughts and prayers during this tragic time."

House Speaker Joanna McClinton will set a date for a special election at a later point.

Lawmakers are scheduled to return to Harrisburg next week for session. Democrats and Republicans will be tied at 101 to 101 seats until the special election. District 35 is a historically Democrat stronghold.