HARRISBURG, PA — State Representatives Chris Rabb (D-Phila.) and Heather Boyd have reintroduced legislation that would align Pennsylvania with the National Popular Vote movement, a push to ensure the presidency is awarded to the candidate receiving the most votes nationwide.
The bill, H.B. 270, seeks to eliminate discrepancies where a candidate can win the Electoral College while losing the popular vote, an outcome that has occurred five times in U.S. history, including twice in recent elections. If enacted, the legislation would commit Pennsylvania’s 19 electoral votes to the candidate who secures the most popular votes across all 50 states and the District of Columbia.
“Every voter, of every party should have an equal voice in presidential elections,” said Rabb, the bill’s sponsor. “This is the fundamental principle that our democracy builds on – that every vote counts equally. Not that some votes count more than others. It is time for PA to join other states in ensuring that every vote counts equally.”
To take effect, the National Popular Vote compact requires participation from states representing at least 270 electoral votes. Currently, 17 states and the District of Columbia, accounting for 209 electoral votes, are part of the initiative. Pennsylvania, with its 19 votes, would bring the movement closer to its goal if H.B. 270 is passed.
Proponents argue the change would ensure consistent attention to states like Pennsylvania in all presidential elections, rather than periods of focus on battleground states during select cycles. The bill’s reintroduction places Pennsylvania in the midst of the national debate surrounding electoral reform and democratic representation.
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