Following a long and intense campaign season, Election Day is — finally — nearly here.
In-person voters might be relieved Tuesday to at last make their voice heard in a number of contentious contests, from president of the United States to local representatives.
Regionally, incumbent U.S. Rep. Glenn “GT” Thompson, R-Pa., faces newcomer Zach Womer, a Democrat from Centre County, for the right to represent Pennsylvania’s 15th District in the U.S. House of Representatives.
More locally, newcomer Rajeev Pradhan, a Democrat from Port Allegany, challenges incumbent state Rep. Martin Causer, R-Turtlepoint, for the 67th Legislative District seat in the Pennsylvania House of Representatives. In the Pennsylvania Senate, Sen. Cris Dush, R-Brookville, is in a race with newcomer William McGill, a Democrat from Clinton County, for the 25th District seat. Further coverage of these races can be found inside today’s edition.
Elections officials anticipate high voter turnout after particularly fierce campaigns. As of Friday afternoon, the Election Day weather forecast called for partly sunny conditions with a high near 73 degrees. Any voters standing in line should at least have a dry and pleasant wait.
It is common for voters to see constables throughout the day at their polling place and each voting location will have people working to ensure there are no issues.
McKean County District Attorney Stephanie Vettenburg-Shaffer said, “McKean County has dedicated people at each voting location and county officials who will be working to ensure Election Day goes off without any major issues locally.”
The McKean County Board of Elections has broad authority on Election Day and is responsible for nearly every aspect of the day. They report any suspicious circumstances to the district attorney. Anyone calling the DA’s office with an election matter will be connected to someone assigned to handle all election issues.
Although some county offices will be closed Tuesday, all offices related to elections will be open so any concerns can be addressed, including matters that require a hearing and judge.
Shaffer added that all campaign materials at the polls must be left outside and at least 10 feet from the entrance.
“The judge of elections is the officer in charge of the polling place and enforces the rules for the conduct of election at the polling place,” Shaffer continued. “The goal is to preserve the right of the voter to cast their ballot and preserve the peace. Additional steps have been taken to ensure safety.”
Statewide, Secretary of the Commonwealth Al Schmidt visited elections offices in all 67 Pennsylvania counties. On Friday he held the fifth in a series of daily media briefings leading up to the general election. He discussed what to expect when voting at the polls Tuesday.
“Voters will encounter different people at the polls, from political volunteers outside to non-partisan poll workers inside,” Schmidt said. “While candidates are legally allowed to have staff outside the polls, once inside the polling location it is every voter’s right to cast their ballots without any political influence.”
Poll watchers for the candidates or parties may be present but are not allowed to speak directly to voters. If voters feel they are being intimidated or discriminated against at the polls, Schmidt said voters should talk to the judge of elections at their polling location.
“Remember, the people working the polls are your neighbors, trained to serve in these roles,” Schmidt said. “These folks not only deserve thanks, but gratitude and respect for serving our democratic process.”
