The Democratic caucus of the State Senate picked Jay Costa to be minority leader, Rep. Doyle nominated Nancy Pelosi to be minority leader in the U.S. House and Allyson Schwartz said the Bush tax cuts should be extended for anybody who makes less than $500,000 a year. Good Thursday morning and welcome to the Buzz.

PoliticsPA Reports

National Journal: GOP looking for Casey challenger

AP: State Senate Dems Back Costa for Minority Leader

Today’s Headlines

Early Returns: Rep. Doyle nominated Pelosi to be Minority Leader; Pelosi won the election, but Reps. Altmire and Critz voted for Rep. Shuler

Times-News: Santorum on another speech tour

Politico: Allyson Schwartz: Extend cuts up to $500,000

Inquirer: Health coverage at risk for working poor in Pa.

Early Returns: Costa primer

Commonwealth Confidential: Hughes elected as top Democrat on State Senate Appropriations Committee

Inquirer: Philadelphia Democrat’s fall had been in the works for a while

Times-Tribune: Veteran state Senators say farewell

Scott Detrow: For first time, Senate overrides Rendell veto

Times-Tribune: Hundreds gather at funeral for fallen soldier; no protestors seen at the funeral

Post-Gazette: Gaming board to decide on license for Philadelphia casino

PBS Philadelphia: Philadelphia’s bond rating lowered by Moody’s

Centre Daily Times: U.S. House honors Paterno

Today’s Opinions

PBS Philadelphia: The Bogus State Store Plan

Times-Tribune: Pension reform still on the table

Times-News: GOP will have to deliver on Pa. budget