I’ve heard people who should know better argue that you must show ID to receive utility service, but you don’t have to show ID to vote. Receiving electricity or cable is a privilege for those who can afford it. Voting is a constitutional right. Therefore, we should put as few roadblocks as possible in the way of voting and make it more convenient to cast ballots.
Protecting our rights is more important than ever. In November, Pennsylvanians will be asked to retain three Supreme Court judges and one Commonwealth Court judge. Turn your ballot over and vote “Yes” if you think the judges should serve another 10 years or “No” if you don’t.
This decision isn’t just about “red” versus “blue.” It’s about whom our judges answer to. So far, Pennsylvania’s high-court judges have stood apart from partisan U.S. Supreme Court justices and their radical decisions to give corporations First Amendment rights, roll back women’s health protections, and grant greater power to a corrupt and vengeful U.S. president.
Money is flowing into Pennsylvania in support of both “yes” and “no” votes. One right-wing group is lying in a recent postcard, claiming a “no” vote will defend democracy, protect women and children, and force fair elections. In truth, a “no” vote will seek to replace experienced nonpartisan judges who have ruled in favor of everyone’s rights with inexperienced, biased judges loyal only to one party and one U.S. president.
Furthermore, a “yes” vote will ensure we have fair legislative districts and the right to choose in the future. A “yes” vote will keep independence on the state courts with judges endorsed by the Pennsylvania Bar Association. A “yes” vote will also avoid two years of judicial deadlock as state Senate Republicans block Gov. Shapiro’s future appointments to fill court vacancies, despite their qualifications.
One Republican political consultant told investigative news outlet Spotlight PA recently: “This is a political consultant’s dream, because your message is just ‘No.'” This gives the advantage to Republicans in a low-turnout election in a state that Trump won in 2024.
So, the question comes down to you, the voter. Do we keep independence on the state courts with judges who look out for our interests, or do we replace them with loyalists at the beck and call of corporations, an unethical political party, and a U.S. president attempting to cling to power in violation of the U.S. Constitution?
