Pennsylvania Primary 2024: Guide to Key Details and Information for Voters

Pennsylvania primary election on April 23 will determine candidates for November. Democrats choose between Lee and Patel for U.S. House.

On April 23, Democrats and Republicans in Pennsylvania will be heading to the polls for the primary election. This crucial race will determine the candidates who will compete in the November general election. It's important to note that Pennsylvania is a closed primary state, meaning only registered members of a political party can vote for that party's candidates.

In the District 12 race for the U.S. House, Democrats will have to choose between incumbent Rep. Summer Lee and challenger Edgewood Councilwoman Bhavini Patel. This race has garnered attention and a recent exclusive debate shed light on the candidates' positions and plans for the future.

The race for state attorney general is also heating up with five Democrats vying for the position. Allegheny County's Eugene DePasquale, Jack Stollsteimer, Joe Khan, Keir Bradford-Grey, and Jared Solomon are all in the running. On the Republican side, voters will decide between Dave Sunday and Craig Williams.

Polling locations will be open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m., giving voters ample time to cast their ballots. It's crucial for first-time voters and those who have recently registered to bring approved forms of identification to the polls.

For those who have already submitted a mail-in or absentee ballot, voting at a polling place on election day is not an option. However, there are procedures in place for those who want to vote in person. They can bring their ballot and return envelope to the polling place to be voided, allowing them to vote a regular ballot.

Alternatively, voters who did not return their mail-in or absentee ballot can only vote by provisional ballot at the polling place. The county board of elections will verify that the voter did not already vote by mail before counting the provisional ballot.

To make the voting process more accessible, the Allegheny County Elections Division will offer additional staffed mail-in or absentee ballot return sites. These sites will only accept completed ballots, and "over the counter" voting will not be available. One such site is the Carnegie Public Library of Squirrel Hill, where voters can drop off completed ballots on weekdays leading up to the primary, as well as on Election Day.

It's important for all eligible voters to participate in the democratic process and make their voices heard. By being informed and prepared, voters can ensure that their vote counts and contributes to shaping the future of Pennsylvania.

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