At 29, the youngest state senator in Pennsylvania and the first Republican to represent Philadelphia in the State Senate since 1996, bringing fresh leadership and innovative solutions.
At just 29 years old, Joe Picozzi made history as the first Republican to represent Philadelphia in the Pennsylvania State Senate since 1996. Born and raised in Somerton, he now represents District 5 with a focus on bipartisan solutions and next-generation leadership.
The son of a Philadelphia firefighter and a special education teacher, Joe's commitment to public service runs deep. After graduating from Georgetown University in 2017 as a George F. Baker Scholar and studying government, he served as chief of staff at the Manhattan Institute and as an aide to future House Speaker Kevin McCarthy.
An Eagle Scout and 2017 finalist for Red Alert Politics' "30 under 30" list, Joe founded the Politics Club at Holy Ghost Preparatory School and was appointed to the Philadelphia Youth Commission by City Councilman Brian O'Neill. He co-chairs the Pennsylvania chapter of Future Caucus, dedicated to cross-partisan lawmaking among Gen Z and millennial legislators. He currently resides in Tacony.
Currently serving Pennsylvania's 5th District with committee leadership and bipartisan focus
Currently serving on seven committees in the Pennsylvania State Senate, working on legislation that impacts urban affairs, justice, appropriations, and other key areas affecting Pennsylvania families.
Strong academic foundation in government and policy, combined with real-world leadership experience and community engagement.
Deep roots in Northeast Philadelphia with a commitment to bringing people together and finding common-sense solutions to local challenges.
Serving on seven committees in the Pennsylvania State Senate for the 2025-2026 session
Forward-thinking leadership focused on practical solutions and sustainable progress
Creating opportunities for working families through smart economic policies, supporting small businesses, and attracting innovative industries to Northeast Philadelphia.
Ensuring every child has access to quality education through increased funding, school choice initiatives, and programs that prepare students for the jobs of tomorrow.
Supporting our first responders with the resources they need while building stronger community-police partnerships and addressing the root causes of crime.
Bringing accountability and accessibility to state government through regular community engagement, transparent decision-making, and responsive constituent services.
Key milestones in Joe's path to public service and legislative leadership
Leading seven committees in the Pennsylvania State Senate, including Chair of Urban Affairs & Housing and Vice Chair of Law & Justice.
Made history as the first Republican to represent Philadelphia in the Pennsylvania State Senate since 1996, elected at age 29.
Continued directing urban-policy and governance projects through the 2023 cycle at the Manhattan Institute.
Oversaw day-to-day operations and strategic initiatives at the free-market think tank from December 7, 2020 to February 2022.
Served as Staff Assistant to House Majority Leader Kevin McCarthy from June 2017 to May 2018, handling constituent work, legislative research, and floor preparation for Republican leadership.
Graduated from Georgetown University as a George F. Baker Scholar with a degree in Government, building a strong foundation in political science and public policy.
Attended Holy Ghost Preparatory School where he demonstrated early leadership through community involvement and civic engagement.
Born April 22, 1995, in Somerton, Northeast Philadelphia.
Ready to be part of building a stronger future for Northeast Philadelphia? Let's work together to create positive change in our community.
Have questions or want to discuss issues important to Northeast Philadelphia? Joe is here to listen and help.
Stay updated with Joe's latest work and community engagement
Follow @josephpicozzi