Roy Furman holds a robust political background, beginning with his election to the Pennsylvania House of Representatives in 1932. He ascended to the position of Speaker in 1936 before retiring to focus on his construction business in 1940. Furman later transitioned to public service, serving as Lieutenant Governor from 1955 to 1959. Despite a failed bid for the Democratic gubernatorial nomination in 1958, his contributions to transportation policy were recognized through the designation of Pennsylvania Route 21 as the “Roy E. Furman Highway” in 1975.

Roy Furman's political career is marked by a persistent focus on infrastructure and transportation, with a notable emphasis on regional development. His tenure as Speaker of the Pennsylvania House and later as Lieutenant Governor reveals a strategic alignment with industrial interests, balancing environmental regulations with economic growth. Furman's legislative efforts often juxtapose traditional Democratic policies with unexpected bipartisan support, showcasing a calculated approach to policymaking.