HARRISBURG—A joint statement from the ACLU of Pennsylvania, New Pennsylvania Project, and the League of Women Voters of Pennsylvania responds to claims made by Sen. Dave McCormick regarding a recent incident involving Chester County voter rolls.
Chester County Voter Roll Issue Explained
Chester County election officials made an administrative mistake by leaving third-party and unaffiliated voters off the voter rolls. However, all impacted voters were offered the opportunity to cast a provisional ballot on Election Day. Pennsylvania’s provisional ballot process includes multiple checks to verify voter eligibility.
The organizations assert that the incident demonstrates the accuracy, safety, and security of Pennsylvania elections, and that existing fail-safes within the election system functioned as intended to protect voter rights.
Concerns Raised About the SAVE Act
The statement also addresses the potential impact of the SAVE Act, arguing it would disenfranchise eligible voters. The Act’s requirements for voter identification—specifically, mandating a birth certificate or passport as proof of citizenship—could disproportionately affect lower-income Americans, Black and brown voters, students, people with disabilities, and individuals whose legal names differ from their birth certificates.
The organizations criticize Sen. McCormick’s understanding of Pennsylvania elections, noting he does not reside in the state. They request he refrain from commenting on the integrity of the state’s elections.
What Could Happen Next
Sen. McCormick will respond to the statement issued by the three organizations. Further debate regarding the SAVE Act is likely to continue, potentially leading to amendments or legal challenges. Analysts expect continued scrutiny of election administration practices in Pennsylvania, particularly as future elections approach.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened in Chester County?
Chester County made an administrative mistake in leaving third-party and unaffiliated voters off the voter rolls, but all those voters were given the opportunity to vote with a provisional ballot on Election Day.
What is the concern regarding the SAVE Act?
The SAVE Act’s requirement of a birth certificate or passport as proof of citizenship could disenfranchise millions of eligible voters who may not have access to those documents.
Where does Sen. McCormick currently reside?
Sen. McCormick resides in Connecticut, according to the statement.
How might differing voter ID requirements impact access to the ballot box?