Collett Named Senate Leader, Dean Eyes 2028 Bid in Montgomery County

State Sen. Maria Collett has been named Pennsylvania Senate Majority Leader following her re-election victory. This appointment comes as Democrats hold the majority caucus for the first time in 30 years. Collett represents a district that includes parts of eastern Montgomery County.

U.S. Rep. Madeleine Dean also won re-election in a landslide, helping Democrats retake the House of Representatives. Dean, who is based in Abington Township, is now considering a challenge to U.S. Sen. John Fetterman in 2028, according to a recent report. Her potential bid would target the current Democratic senator in a primary contest.

Both legislators serve in the Montgomery County region, where local political dynamics often influence state and national decisions. The shift in power at the state level gives the Democratic caucus greater control over legislative priorities. Dean’s potential move to the Senate race adds a layer of complexity to the upcoming election cycle.

In other local news, a Philadelphia man was charged with sexually assaulting a minor in Abington Township. Authorities said the suspect video recorded the incident. Police in Hatboro Borough cited three businesses for selling tobacco to minors during compliance checks conducted Wednesday.

Edna Margaret Smith Ullman, a resident of Hatboro, recently celebrated her 100th birthday. The Rotary Club of Hatboro recognized her milestone, noting her well-known homemade clam chowder. These stories highlight the mix of political shifts and community events in the area this week.