Pennsylvania Sen. Bob Casey has been named to replace former Massachusettes Sen. John Kerry on the influential senate Finance Committee, which writes tax laws.

Casey, a Democrat, joins Pennsylvania's other senator, Republican Pat Toomey, on the committee. Ohio is the only other state to have both of its senators on the Finance Committee.

Casey released the following statement on his appointment:

“I am honored to have the chance to serve on the Senate Finance Committee where I will continue to fight for Pennsylvania priorities. This assignment means I will have a seat at the table in addressing responsible tax reform to spur innovation, create jobs and promote economic growth. I will also be in an even better position to continue my efforts to level the playing field for American manufacturers through reasonable trade policy, ensure essential programs like Medicare work for current and future beneficiaries, incentivize research and development and protect our future by providing children with access to affordable health care."

Casey will continue to serve on the Foreign Relations Committee, the Health Education, Labor and Pensions Committee, the Special Committee on Aging and the Joint Economic Committee.