Pennsylvania Certifies 2024 Election Results Amidst Improved Processes

Pennsylvania certified the results of its 2024 general election, reporting a 77% turnout with no significant disputes, marking a smoother process compared to previous years. Secretary Al Schmidt confirmed the election’s integrity as the state prepares for Trump’s electors to meet. Remaining steps involve the governor’s authorization by Dec. 11 and the elector meeting on Dec. 17.

On Wednesday, Pennsylvania declared the certification of the results from the 2024 general election, marking a significant step towards finalizing the electoral process. The certification came following the completion of local certifications across all 67 counties, some of which faced challenges in meeting the Nov. 25 deadline due to incomplete provisional ballots or recount delays in the U.S. Senate race. Secretary of the Commonwealth Al Schmidt confirmed the integrity of the election, stating, “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.”

Over 7 million voters participated in the election, achieving a turnout rate of nearly 77%, which reflects a slight improvement from the 76% turnout during the 2020 election. Notably, this year’s process saw the certification completed without the legal disputes or contentious challenges that characterized the previous election cycle. In stark contrast to the tumultuous aftermath of the 2020 election, Pennsylvania managed a smoother transition without any rogue actions from county commissioners or lawsuits objecting to the results.

Looking ahead, the state’s finalization of the presidential election outcome hinges on two remaining steps concerning Trump’s electors. Governor Josh Shapiro is tasked with signing the certificate of ascertainment by Dec. 11, allowing the 19 electors for Trump to vote during the Electoral College meeting scheduled for Dec. 17.

The lead-up to the election saw significant legal discussions surrounding the Election Code, particularly regarding mail ballots and voters’ rights to cast provisional votes in cases of technical errors. Despite these unresolved issues, the election day proceeded relatively smoothly, aside from isolated incidents such as a printing error in Cambria County.

Thanks to upgrades, counties processed mail-in ballots more efficiently compared to previous elections, eliminating delays faced in 2020. Yet, one U.S. Senate race extended beyond Election Day, ultimately triggering an automatic recount due to the narrow margin of votes.

The efficient handling of this election stands in stark contrast to the prolonged and conflict-ridden certification processes of previous years, underscoring the progress made within Pennsylvania’s election administration.

This article discusses the recent certification of the 2024 election results in Pennsylvania, highlighting the improvement in the electoral process compared to past elections, specifically 2020 and 2022. It details the steps involved in the election certification, the record voter turnout, and the legal issues that have previously encumbered the electoral process in Pennsylvania. This context is essential in understanding the lessons learned from previous elections that have contributed to a more streamlined process this year.

The certification of the 2024 election results in Pennsylvania signifies a successful electoral process characterized by high voter turnout and minimal disputes. Crucially, the absence of legal controversies that marred previous elections demonstrates improvements in election administration. As the state prepares for the final steps in confirming Trump’s electors, the consensus is that Pennsylvania has made notable strides towards conducting fair and efficient elections.

Original Source: www.statecollege.com