Pennsylvania Certifies 2024 Election Results Amidst Smooth Process

Pennsylvania has certified the results of the 2024 general election, achieving a significant milestone with a voter turnout of 77%. Unlike past elections, this year’s certification encountered minimal disputes, confirming a free and fair electoral process. Governor Josh Shapiro must now sign a certificate of ascertainment by December 11, with electors convening on December 17 to cast their votes for Trump in the Electoral College.

On November 29, Pennsylvania finalized the certification of the 2024 general election results, marking a critical milestone in a process that many anticipated would be contentious. Each of the 67 counties was required to certify their local results, with a few counties missing the November 25 deadline due to outstanding provisional ballots or delays tied to a recount in the U.S. Senate race. Secretary of the Commonwealth Al Schmidt confirmed the results after receiving all original certifications, noting, “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.” This year witnessed a turnout of over 7 million voters, approximately 77%, slightly higher than the previous general election in 2020.

The certification this year was far less tumultuous than in previous election cycles. Unlike the 2020 election, which was followed by extensive litigation and challenges to the results from then-President Trump, this year did not see significant resistance or disputes regarding the election outcomes. The state avoided the complications that had plagued the prior certification timelines and conducted a smooth process, ultimately concluding before prior elections’ delays. However, there remain two key steps before the presidential race results are officially complete. Governor Josh Shapiro is required to sign a certificate of ascertainment by December 11 to authorize the state’s 19 electors for Trump to cast their votes when the Electoral College convenes on December 17.

In the lead-up to the election, Pennsylvania faced several legal battles concerning election protocols, particularly relating to mail-in ballots. Issues revolved around whether voters could use provisional ballots when their mail ballots were rejected for technical errors, and the eligibility of mail-in ballots lacking proper dates. Legal ambiguities persisted, despite previous rulings causing confusion among constituents. Fortunately, Election Day transpired with relatively fewer issues than previous years, despite some localized problems such as ballot printing errors. Furthermore, counties managed to process mail ballots more efficiently than in the 2020 election, effectively mitigating delays associated with vote counting.

The U.S. Senate race notably extended beyond Election Day, with Democratic incumbent Bob Casey being edged out by Republican Dave McCormick by less than half a percentage point, triggering an automatic recount. Once the counties finalized their ballot counts and confirmed that Casey would not recover the deficit, he conceded the race on November 21. This overall improved electoral process in Pennsylvania highlights both advancements and ongoing complexities within the state’s election administration system.

The certification of election results is a significant aspect of the electoral process, ensuring the integrity and acknowledgment of outcomes. Following a contentious history characterized by challenges and disputes surrounding election outcomes, particularly highlighted during the 2020 presidential election, the 2024 Pennsylvania election certification has taken place with comparatively fewer incidents. The improvements in election administration stem from lessons learned and changes made since the previous elections, thereby enhancing efficiency in processing and certifying results.

In summary, the certification of Pennsylvania’s 2024 election results reflects a more streamlined and efficient process compared to past electoral cycles, particularly the contentious environment that followed the 2020 election. Despite previous legal challenges related to mail-in voting, this election witnessed a significant voter turnout and minimal disputes, culminating in the state’s electoral process moving forward without significant setbacks. The upcoming actions necessary for finalizing Trump’s Electoral College votes will be closely monitored as the certification concludes.

Original Source: www.statecollege.com