Pennsylvania Certifies 2024 Election Results with Increased Voter Turnout

Pennsylvania certified the 2024 general election results, confirming a secure and fair process. Secretary of the Commonwealth Al Schmidt announced that turnout reached nearly 77%, with significantly fewer disputes compared to previous elections. Governor Shapiro will finalize the presidential electors shortly, while ongoing litigation regarding mail ballots underscores the evolving election landscape in the state.

On Wednesday, Pennsylvania finalized the certification of the 2024 general election results, marking a significant milestone in a procedure that many had anticipated would encounter disputes. The certification process required each of the 67 counties in the Commonwealth to endorse their respective results. Although some counties missed the November 25 deadline due to pending provisional ballots or recount delays in the U.S. Senate race, Secretary of the Commonwealth Al Schmidt confirmed that the overall process was efficient and straightforward. “After a careful review of the counties’ election results, I am pleased to confirm that Pennsylvania had a free, fair, safe, and secure general election on Nov. 5,” announced Schmidt. With participation exceeding 7 million voters, turnout hit nearly 77%, a slight increase from the 76% seen in 2020.

Despite fears of potential complications, the certification proceeded without significant hindrances. Unlike the post-election turmoil witnessed in 2020, such as lawsuits from then-President Trump’s campaign, there were no major disputes over the recent election outcomes. The process concluded much more expeditiously compared to the delayed certifying of results in the 2022 midterms, attributed to conservative-led recount petitions.

For most elections, the completion of certification signifies the conclusion of the process; however, for the presidential election, additional actions are necessary to finalize the designation of the state’s 19 electors for Trump. Governor Josh Shapiro is expected to sign a certificate of ascertainment by December 11, and the electors will convene in Harrisburg on December 17.

The 2024 election cycle in Pennsylvania experienced extensive litigation prior to Election Day, yet the voting process was largely efficient. Notably, conflicting courtroom decisions regarding mail ballots created confusion regarding voters’ rights. A pending Supreme Court case could establish whether voters must be notified before their mail ballots are rejected, thus contributing to an ongoing debate on election administration rules.

On the day of the election, the state successfully avoided significant problems, although a printing error in Cambria County necessitated hand-counting of some ballots. Overall, counties handled mail ballots with greater efficiency than in 2020, reflecting improved processes. The aftermath for the U.S. Senate race exemplified the close contests, resulting in an automatic recount triggered by the narrow margin. However, after counties finalized their counts, the Democratic incumbent Bob Casey conceded to Republican challenger Dave McCormick before the recount’s conclusion.

The certification of election results is a critical step in the democratic process, ensuring that all votes are counted accurately and fairly. Pennsylvania has faced significant scrutiny in recent elections, particularly following the controversial 2020 election, which resulted in lawsuits and challenges regarding mail-in ballots and election processes. The 2024 election, in contrast, was marked by increased voter engagement and improved administrative practices, reflecting a learning curve from previous cycles. The legal discussions surrounding mail ballots demonstrate ongoing concerns about voting rights and the election code in Pennsylvania, which continues to evolve as new rulings and laws emerge.

In summary, the certification of Pennsylvania’s 2024 general election results illustrates a commitment to fair and efficient electoral processes. Secretary Schmidt’s assurances of a secure election, combined with the absence of significant disputes, highlight a departure from the turmoil of previous election cycles. As Pennsylvania moves forward, the importance of clear regulations and transparency in the election process remains paramount for fostering public trust in democratic institutions.

Original Source: www.spotlightpa.org