Federal judge's ruling validates election of State Sen. Jim Brewster in 45th district Republican senators last week blocked Brewster's swearing-in at the state capitol, sparking a contentious debate on the floor. Now a judge has upheld his victory. Author: Keith Schweigert (FOX43) Updated: 4:32 PM EST January 12, 2021 HARRISBURG, Pa. — An Allegheny County state senator whose swearing-in was delayed last week by Republicans in the state capitol had his election victory validated Tuesday by a federal judge's ruling. Democrat Jim Brewster's election to the 45 senatorial district was upheld by the ruling, which was issued by U.S. District Judge J. Nicholas Ranjan. It is the latest in a series of losses for Republicans in the courts following last November's election.