This time, it isn’t our world-renowned hospitals advancing surgical techniques, the breakthrough in research competed by one of our many institutions of higher learning, our dominance in the energy sector, nor (sadly) one of our sports teams. No, this time news agencies and media outlets are hyper-focused on the potential outcomes of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania’s November 2022 General Election.

Pennsylvania has the potential to shift the tides of both national and state political waters with pivotal elections taking place this year. But what will we see? Low voter turnout? Party line adherence?

I must admit that I am apprehensive as I fear most people do not understand how precarious our democracy can be. The reduction of civic education has muddied voters’ knowledge about the role of government in our lives, and apathy leaves many people uninformed and disengaged.

Without knowledgeable and active voters, the balance of federal, state, and local representation comes down to political winds that too often batter our democracy. Adherence to strident beliefs or divisive viewpoints does not resemble my understanding of a representative form of government. As a very active participant in each election cycle, I make it my business to vote for public servants who I feel will represent me as they work to establish policies and laws for the good of all.

While Local Government Academy does not wade into partisan politics, we do suggest that you do your own research using reputable sources. To assist you in that effort, here are just a few:

• The White House – Despite not having a dog in the fight, it’s still a good site and you might as well start at the top.
• Pennsylvania Department of State Voting & Election Information – Great site to learn the schedule for filing to run for office and election results. Perhaps most importantly is information on two proposed amendments to the Constitution of Pennsylvania.

• Vote411.org – Brought to you by the League of Women Voters, Vote411 provides nonpartisan information to the public with both general and state-specific information on various aspects of the election process. Check out the LWV Pennsylvania Branch for additional voting tools.

Finally, while local government officials are not on the ballot, now is the time for you to start thinking about running for office should you be so interested. If so, contact us at [email protected] for more information on the roles and responsibilities of an elected local government official.

However, in the meantime, keep in mind that:

• October 24, 2022, is the last day to register before the November election
• November 1, 2022, is the last day to apply for a mail-in or civilian absentee ballot
• November 8, 2022, is the last day for County Boards of Elections to receive voted mail-in and civilian absentee ballots (must be received by 8:00 P.M.)
• November 8, 2022, is the General Election

Get out and vote!

– Joy