HARRISBURG, PA — As Pennsylvania gears up for the general election on November 5, 2024, Secretary of the Commonwealth Al Schmidt recently conducted a media briefing to outline what voters can expect at the polls. This session is part of a series designed to inform and assure voters of their rights and the transparency of the electoral process.
In his address, Schmidt emphasized the structured environment that voters will encounter at polling stations. “Voters will encounter different people at the polls, from political volunteers outside to non-partisan poll workers inside,” he stated. He clarified that while political presence is permissible outside polling locations, once inside, voters are entitled to cast their ballots free from any political influence. This ensures that the sanctity and privacy of the voting process are upheld.
Poll watchers, who may represent candidates or parties, are allowed within polling venues but are restricted from engaging directly with voters. Schmidt highlighted the importance of addressing any concerns about intimidation or discrimination at the polls with the Judge of Elections present at each location.
He further acknowledged the critical role of poll workers, noting, “Remember, the people working the polls are your neighbors, trained to serve in these roles. These folks not only deserve thanks, but gratitude and respect for serving our democratic process.”
The briefing also provided an overview of the candidates vying for statewide votes. For President of the United States, the candidates include Chase R. Oliver (L), Donald J. Trump (R), Jill Stein (G), and Kamala D. Harris (D). The Vice Presidential candidates are James “JD” David Vance (R), Mike ter Maat (L), Samson LeBeau Kpadenou (G), and Tim Walz (D).
For Pennsylvania’s Attorney General, the candidates are Dave Sunday (R), Eric L. Settle (FP), Eugene DePasquale (D), Justin L. Magill (C), Richard L. Weiss (G), and Robert Cowburn (L). The Auditor General candidates include Alan “Bob” Goodrich (C), Eric K. Anton (I), Malcolm Kenyatta (D), Reece Smith (L), and Timothy DeFoor (R). Competing for Pennsylvania Treasurer are Chris Foster (FP), Erin R. McClelland (D), Nickolas A. Ciesielski (L), Stacy L. Garrity (R), and Troy Bowman (C).
In the U.S. Senate race for Pennsylvania, the candidates are Bernard “Marty” Selker (C), Bob P. Casey Jr. (D), Dave McCormick (R), Erik Messina (I), John C. Thomas (L), and Leila Hazou (G).
With a high-stakes election on the horizon, the state of Pennsylvania is gearing up for a fierce competition between candidates vying for positions in government offices. From the top leadership roles of President and Vice President of the United States to important positions such as Attorney General, Auditor General, and Treasurer, there are many races to watch.
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