Pocono News Section

Harrisburg Politicians React to Mellow's Announcement

Harrisburg Politicians React to Mellow's Announcement - Tuesday, February 9, 2010 at 6:45PM EST

Reported by: Eric Deabill
Tuesday, Feb 9, 2010 @ 06:45pm EST

HARRISBURG, DAUPHIN COUNTY - Representatives from the Pennsylvania Senate and House of Representatives reacted Tuesday afternoon to news that State Senator Bob Mellow will retire.

People came and went from Senator Mellow's office in Harrisburg Tuesday afternoon but most had not heard the announcement.

"Senator Mellow will be recognized as probably one of the most knowledgeable members of the Senate in the workings of the institution," fellow Senator Lisa Baker said.

The announcement came shortly before 2:00 PM in the form of an e-mail to the media. Senator Mellow was not at the Capitol. He also did not attend Governor Ed Rendell's budget address.

Fellow senators expressed shock at the news but said that Mellow will be missed. They say he was a wealth of information especially when younger senators were just starting out.

"He had a lot more experience and he always treated me well. He couldn't be treated any better. I have great respect for him," fellow Senator Gene Yaw said.

Mellow frequently came under fire from critics who have questioned his ethics and role on community boards. Those issues did not come up with any fellow senators Tuesday afternoon.

"With the retirement of both Senator Mellow and Senator Musto, the political leadership of Northeastern Pennsylvania will be changing significantly," Senator Baker said.

Even in the House of Representatives, news that Mellow was calling it a career spread fast. As for who will take his place? The political posturing has already started.

"I think there's probably gonna be many people interested in his seat, but right now, its not about that. Its about wishing Senator Mellow the best," State Representative Jim Wansacz said.