Pennsylvania is politically divided, with last year's election leaving Democrats with a one-seat majority in the state House of Representatives.

However, the tragic death of a 45-year-old lawmaker this past weekend has turned that majority into a tie. 

Rep. Matt Gergely was previously hospitalized

The New York Post reported that Democratic state Rep. Matt Gergely, whose district is located in Allegheny County, passed away on Sunday.

While the cause of his death has yet to be revealed, the Post noted how Gergely has been absent from the legislature since the start of the year.

That absence was due to a "medical emergency over the holidays requiring hospitalization," with House Democratic caucus spokesperson recently saying that Gergely would not return "for some time."

The political consequence of Gergely's death is that Republicans and Democrats will each hold 101 seats until state House Speaker Joanna McClinton announces a special election in his Democratic-leaning district.

Governor orders flags to be flown at half-staff

News of Gergely's passing was met with tributes on social media, including from Pennsylvania Democratic Gov. Josh Shapiro.

Shapiro wrote that he and First Lady Lori Shapiro "are heartbroken for Rep. Matt Gergely’s wife Holly, their two young sons, his colleagues on both sides of the aisle and the community he loved and proudly served in his hometown of McKeesport."

"Matt's was a life cut way too short. Now, in this moment of mourning, let us come together to honor his legacy, carry on the work that mattered most to him, and look out for his family," Shapiro continued.

"In honor of his legacy of service, I’ve ordered flags on Commonwealth facilities, public buildings, and grounds to be lowered to half-staff," the governor declared before adding, "May the memory of Matt Gergely forever be a blessing."

House Republicans send their condolences

Meanwhile, members of the House Republican Leadership team also released a statement on Monday regarding Gergely’s death.

A statement from the House Republican Leadership team on the passing of Representative Matt Gergely. pic.twitter.com/BR3AW6vXdC

— PA House Republicans 🇺🇸 (@PAHouseGOP) January 20, 2025

"We join in grieving the loss of our friend and colleague, Rep. Matt Gergely. Matt left behind a young family, and we send them our condolences as well as our thoughts and prayers," it said.

"While Matt was only in the Pennsylvania House of Representatives a short time, his commitment to his family and community were deeply felt among his peers and he quickly earned friends and respect on both sides of the aisle," the statement stressed.