The right to vote is a cornerstone of democracy, creating a means for citizens to choose their leaders, shape their communities, and decide our future collectively. To uphold the right of every eligible American to cast their vote and have it counted, the U.S. Constitution explicitly provides states with the authority to administer elections, not the federal government. In our Commonwealth, we must be absolute in our insistence that all eligible Pennsylvanians be allowed to vote without fear or interference, and, to that end, we will soon introduce legislation to protect voters from unlawful intimidation at voting locations. 
 
Currently, Pennsylvania law prohibits on-duty police officers from being within 100 feet of a polling place unless called upon to preserve the peace. However, with the increased presence and cooperation with federal officers and agents, the omission of other law enforcement officers leaves Pennsylvanians vulnerable to potential intimidation. Recent polling data shows that most people oppose ICE activity at voting locations, and this is for good reason: no eligible voter should be harassed or intimidated when they cast their vote. Our legislation will clarify that all on-duty law enforcement officers, across all levels of government, are prohibited at voting locations.  

 

This legislation affirms our Commonwealth’s authority to govern its elections and its commitment to protecting the rights of its people to participate in their government.  
 
Please join us in this effort to uphold the rights of our constituents and protect our vote.