Voter Guide

Primary Election

April 23, 2024

Last day to register to vote: April 9, 2024
Last day to request a mail-in or absentee ballot: April 16, 2024

General Election

November 5, 2024

Last day to register to vote: October 22, 2024
Last day to request a mail-in or absentee ballot: October 29, 2024

Register To Vote

You can also change your voting address, or change your party.

NOTE TO 17-YEAR OLDS

If you will turn 18 by general Election Day in November, you can register to vote before the primary and VOTE IN THE PRIMARY.

You can register or change your party or address of registration any time between the day after one primary or general election and 15 days before the next election.

When can you change your registration?

You can register or change your party or address of registration any time between the day after one primary or general election and 15 days before the next election.

Vote By Mail or Drop Box

Voting by mail-in or absentee ballot is safe, secure, and easy.

Drop Box Locations

There will be convenient drop-box locations throughout the county. See locations/times here.

You may drop your ballot off at Chester County Voter Services at 601 Westtown Rd, Suite 150, West Chester, PA 19380-0990.  The dropbox in the lobby is available  until 8pm on Election Day.

Applying to Vote By Mail or Absentee

You can apply online for your vote by mail  ballot or call 1-877-VOTESPA.

While you may apply to vote by mail as late as 5:00 pm on the Tuesday prior to the election, It is best to apply as early as possible!

All further vote by mail questions, go to the Pennsylvania Voting Website.

IMPORTANT:

  • You must apply for an absentee or mail-in ballot for each election (both primary and general), unless you have requested an annual ballot (an annual ballot request must be renewed each calendar year; you will receive a reminder by mail every February.
  • You can also download, print and complete a mail-in paper application, or you can pick up a blank application form in person (bring identification) at Voter Services, 601 Westtown Rd, Suite 150, West Chester, PA 19380.
  • If you apply online and enter a driver’s license or PennDot ID number, indicate your name as it appears on that state ID.
  • On the written application, your municipality is the political entity where you live (e.g., West Goshen), not your postal address (which, for West Goshen, would be West Chester). “Ward” applies to just a few municipalities, e.g., West Chester ward 3. “Voting district” refers to precinct number, which for that ward is 835. But those answers are not essential.

Note: If you have applied for your ballot online and included an e-mail address, you will receive notifications when your:
• application is processed
• ballot is sent
• voted ballot is received by Voter Services

Status of your Application

You may check the status of your ballot at the Department of State website.

The Results will be one of the following:

• No Record means you haven’t applied yet or that your ballot has yet to be processed. It may take up to 10-14 business days from the time you submit your application for processing.
• Pending means your application was received and approved, but that your ballot has not been mailed yet.
• Processed means your application was received and approved, and your ballot has been mailed.
• Vote Recorded means Voter Services has received your ballot and recorded your vote.

You may also call Chester County Voter Services at 610-344-6410.

Note: It may take a week or more once you apply for your status to be updated. 

Completing your ballot

When you are filling out the ballot, be sure to follow instructions precisely. Use one ballpoint pen with black ink.

Pennsylvania no longer has straight party voting. You must vote for every office individually. All races are important! Please vote your whole ballot. Do your homework online (one of the advantages of voting by mail: you can check the internet as you vote).

You have to return 3 items (see what they look like in this PA Dems video, source of image of completed back of outside envelope).

  1. The completed ballot inside…
  2. The inner “secrecy” envelope labeled OFFICIAL ELECTION BALLOT (do not write anything on it; seal it) inside…
  3. The outer envelope, must be signed and dated.

DO NOT TAPE or REOPEN your ballot. If you have made a mistake with your ballot, please contact voter services.

Sending your ballot

Voter Services must receive your filled-out ballot by Election Day. You can drop it in a drop box by 8:00 pm on Election Day.

Postmarks on Election Day will not be counted. Your ballot must reach voter services by Election Day. If you wish to send your ballot by mail, follow the completing your ballot instructions and place it in the mailbox. Or, pay extra to use a company like UPS or FedEx. Put your ballot inside its 2 envelopes and then place it inside the commercial envelope.

Did not receive Mail-In Ballot

If you have your mail ballot, but did not mail it or drop it off, you can still vote at the polls by taking your full packet (ballot and 2 envelopes) to your polling place on Election Day. You will ask for it to be voided and a regular ballot will be issued to you. If you don’t bring the needed parts, then you can still vote provisionally (this option is not ideal). Take identification just in case.

If you aren’t sure if you sent your ballot in time and did not drop it off, you can also go to your polling place on Election Day. If the County receives your mail-in ballot on time, that ballot will count. If not, ask to vote in person.

Absentee Voting

If you qualify as an absentee voter, you must vote by absentee ballot. You will need to indicate your reason, either

• I will be absent from my municipality
• I have an illness or physical disability

Otherwise, the process is the same as for mail-in voting.

Apply for absentee ballot now. 

There is also a provision for emergency absentee voting if a sudden emergency (like being hospitalized) after the absentee ballot application deadline prevents you from going to the polls as planned. Download the application form and the authorization form.

Vote at the Polls

On Election Day, polls are open from 7AM to 8PM.

WHEN IS ELECTION DAY?

In 2024, the Primary Election for Democrats and Republicans to choose who goes on their November ballot is April 23. November 5, 2024 is the next General / Presidential Election.

  • In a presidential election year, the primary is in April. In all other election years, the primary is in May.
  • The general election is always the Tuesday after the first Monday in November of that year.
  • Polls are open for in-person voting from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Election Day.
  • If there is a line at 8pm, and you are in the line at 8 p.m., you will be allowed to vote, no matter how long it takes.
HOW DO I VOTE?

See the video on how our voting machines work. Chester County led the way in Pennsylvania on using optical scan sheets, which means that in the case of a recount, all ballots can be physically inspected and the electronic count corrected as warranted.

Pennsylvania no longer has straight party voting. You must vote for every office individually. All races are important! Please vote your whole ballot. Do your homework online and talk with Dem greeters and pick up their handouts before going in to vote.

IDENTIFICATION

You need a valid form of identification (preferably, driver’s license or other photo ID. You may use photo student ID card, utility bill, bank statement, etc.) only if you haven’t voted as a resident of your current precinct before. It is not correct to say “if you have not voted before in PA” or “in your current polling place” (the physical location can change; it is the precinct that counts). Call 833-728-6837 if you believe a polling official is requesting identification erroneously.

Note: With a first-time voter absentee vote application, send a photocopy of one of those items. In both cases, photo ID works best.

EARLY IN-PERSON VOTING

If you are a registered Pennsylvania voter, you can use the early, in-person voting option. Between the time that ballots are ready and the last day to request a mail-in or absentee ballot a week before an election, you can request, receive, vote and cast your mail-in or absentee ballot all in one visit to your county election board or other designated location. With this option, there is no need for mail at all, and you can cast your vote at your convenience.

Learn more about early voting.

Note that this option may require spending extra time in the County Voter Services office and is not available after the last day to request a vote-by-mail ballot.

WHAT IS A PROVISIONAL BALLOT?

While this is not optimal, you may cast a provisional ballot, which may or not be counted if you are turned down for a regular ballot. This is why it’s important to be sure you know your correct polling place before you go to vote. Click here to find your polling location. Details provided by Chesco Voter Services, 11/15:

Provisional Ballot Regs:

25 P.S. §3050

A provisional ballot is used to record a vote when there is a question regarding a voter’s eligibility. The voter has the right to vote by provisional ballot if:

    • Their name does not appear in the poll book or supplemental list and is not able to be determined their registration status immediately.
    • The poll book indicates ID REQUIRED in the poll book signature block and the voter is unable to show proper ID (ID needed when first time voting in that precinct).
    • If the voter is challenged based on their registration and they are unable to complete the Challenge Affidavit.
    • The voter is accidentally in the wrong precinct and does not have enough time to vote at their correct precinct.
    • Only those contests that match the voter’s original precinct ballot will be counted.
    • If the voter “intentionally and willfully” went to the wrong precinct to try and cast a vote, it will not be counted. (this happens often when voters assume it is ok to try to vote in a different precinct because it is more convenient to them)
  • If the voter uses a Provisional Ballot but fails to sign it, or if their signature is determined to be fraudulent or not match their registration record, it will not count.

*In all cases the Judge of Elections should call Voter Services before issuing a Provision ballot. VS will research the situation and determine the voter’s registration status first.

Register To Vote

You can also change your voting address, or change your party.

Vote By Mail or Drop Box

Voting by mail-in or absentee ballot is safe, secure, and easy.

Vote at the Polls

On Election Day, polls are open from 7AM to 8PM.

NOTE TO 17-YEAR OLDS

If you will turn 18 by general Election Day in November, you can register to vote before the primary and VOTE IN THE PRIMARY.

You can register or change your party or address of registration any time between the day after one primary or general election and 15 days before the next election.

When can you change your registration?

You can register or change your party or address of registration any time between the day after one primary or general election and 15 days before the next election.

Drop Box Locations

There will be convenient drop-box locations throughout the county. See locations/times here.

You may drop your ballot off at Chester County Voter Services at 601 Westtown Rd, Suite 150, West Chester, PA 19380-0990.  The dropbox in the lobby is available  until 8pm on Election Day.

Applying to Vote By Mail or Absentee

You can apply online for your vote by mail  ballot or call 1-877-VOTESPA.

While you may apply to vote by mail as late as 5:00 pm on the Tuesday prior to the election, It is best to apply as early as possible!

All further vote by mail questions, go to the Pennsylvania Voting Website.

IMPORTANT:

  • You must apply for an absentee or mail-in ballot for each election (both primary and general), unless you have requested an annual ballot (an annual ballot request must be renewed each calendar year; you will receive a reminder by mail every February.
  • You can also download, print and complete a mail-in paper application, or you can pick up a blank application form in person (bring identification) at Voter Services, 601 Westtown Rd, Suite 150, West Chester, PA 19380.
  • If you apply online and enter a driver’s license or PennDot ID number, indicate your name as it appears on that state ID.
  • On the written application, your municipality is the political entity where you live (e.g., West Goshen), not your postal address (which, for West Goshen, would be West Chester). “Ward” applies to just a few municipalities, e.g., West Chester ward 3. “Voting district” refers to precinct number, which for that ward is 835. But those answers are not essential.

Note: If you have applied for your ballot online and included an e-mail address, you will receive notifications when your:
• application is processed
• ballot is sent
• voted ballot is received by Voter Services

Status of your Application

You may check the status of your ballot at the Department of State website.

The Results will be one of the following:

• No Record means you haven’t applied yet or that your ballot has yet to be processed. It may take up to 10-14 business days from the time you submit your application for processing.
• Pending means your application was received and approved, but that your ballot has not been mailed yet.
• Processed means your application was received and approved, and your ballot has been mailed.
• Vote Recorded means Voter Services has received your ballot and recorded your vote.

You may also call Chester County Voter Services at 610-344-6410.

Note: It may take a week or more once you apply for your status to be updated. 

Completing your ballot

When you are filling out the ballot, be sure to follow instructions precisely. Use one ballpoint pen with black ink.

Pennsylvania no longer has straight party voting. You must vote for every office individually. All races are important! Please vote your whole ballot. Do your homework online (one of the advantages of voting by mail: you can check the internet as you vote).

You have to return 3 items (see what they look like in this PA Dems video, source of image of completed back of outside envelope).

  1. The completed ballot inside…
  2. The inner “secrecy” envelope labeled OFFICIAL ELECTION BALLOT (do not write anything on it; seal it) inside…
  3. The outer envelope, must be signed and dated.

DO NOT TAPE or REOPEN your ballot. If you have made a mistake with your ballot, please contact voter services.

Sending your ballot

Voter Services must receive your filled-out ballot by Election Day. You can drop it in a drop box by 8:00 pm on Election Day.

Postmarks on Election Day will not be counted. Your ballot must reach voter services by Election Day. If you wish to send your ballot by mail, follow the completing your ballot instructions and place it in the mailbox. Or, pay extra to use a company like UPS or FedEx. Put your ballot inside its 2 envelopes and then place it inside the commercial envelope.

Did not receive Mail-In Ballot

If you have your mail ballot, but did not mail it or drop it off, you can still vote at the polls by taking your full packet (ballot and 2 envelopes) to your polling place on Election Day. You will ask for it to be voided and a regular ballot will be issued to you. If you don’t bring the needed parts, then you can still vote provisionally (this option is not ideal). Take identification just in case.

If you aren’t sure if you sent your ballot in time and did not drop it off, you can also go to your polling place on Election Day. If the County receives your mail-in ballot on time, that ballot will count. If not, ask to vote in person.

Absentee Voting

If you qualify as an absentee voter, you must vote by absentee ballot. You will need to indicate your reason, either

• I will be absent from my municipality
• I have an illness or physical disability

Otherwise, the process is the same as for mail-in voting.

Apply for absentee ballot now. 

There is also a provision for emergency absentee voting if a sudden emergency (like being hospitalized) after the absentee ballot application deadline prevents you from going to the polls as planned. Download the application form and the authorization form.

WHEN IS ELECTION DAY?

In 2024, the Primary Election for Democrats and Republicans to choose who goes on their November ballot is April 23. November 5, 2024 is the next General / Presidential Election.

  • In a presidential election year, the primary is in April. In all other election years, the primary is in May.
  • The general election is always the Tuesday after the first Monday in November of that year.
  • Polls are open for in-person voting from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Election Day.
  • If there is a line at 8pm, and you are in the line at 8 p.m., you will be allowed to vote, no matter how long it takes.
HOW DO I VOTE?

See the video on how our voting machines work. Chester County led the way in Pennsylvania on using optical scan sheets, which means that in the case of a recount, all ballots can be physically inspected and the electronic count corrected as warranted.

Pennsylvania no longer has straight party voting. You must vote for every office individually. All races are important! Please vote your whole ballot. Do your homework online and talk with Dem greeters and pick up their handouts before going in to vote.

IDENTIFICATION

You need a valid form of identification (preferably, driver’s license or other photo ID. You may use photo student ID card, utility bill, bank statement, etc.) only if you haven’t voted as a resident of your current precinct before. It is not correct to say “if you have not voted before in PA” or “in your current polling place” (the physical location can change; it is the precinct that counts). Call 833-728-6837 if you believe a polling official is requesting identification erroneously.

Note: With a first-time voter absentee vote application, send a photocopy of one of those items. In both cases, photo ID works best.

EARLY IN-PERSON VOTING

If you are a registered Pennsylvania voter, you can use the early, in-person voting option. Between the time that ballots are ready and the last day to request a mail-in or absentee ballot a week before an election, you can request, receive, vote and cast your mail-in or absentee ballot all in one visit to your county election board or other designated location. With this option, there is no need for mail at all, and you can cast your vote at your convenience.

Learn more about early voting.

Note that this option may require spending extra time in the County Voter Services office and is not available after the last day to request a vote-by-mail ballot.

WHAT IS A PROVISIONAL BALLOT?

While this is not optimal, you may cast a provisional ballot, which may or not be counted if you are turned down for a regular ballot. This is why it’s important to be sure you know your correct polling place before you go to vote. Click here to find your polling location. Details provided by Chesco Voter Services, 11/15:

Provisional Ballot Regs:

25 P.S. §3050

A provisional ballot is used to record a vote when there is a question regarding a voter’s eligibility. The voter has the right to vote by provisional ballot if:

    • Their name does not appear in the poll book or supplemental list and is not able to be determined their registration status immediately.
    • The poll book indicates ID REQUIRED in the poll book signature block and the voter is unable to show proper ID (ID needed when first time voting in that precinct).
    • If the voter is challenged based on their registration and they are unable to complete the Challenge Affidavit.
    • The voter is accidentally in the wrong precinct and does not have enough time to vote at their correct precinct.
    • Only those contests that match the voter’s original precinct ballot will be counted.
    • If the voter “intentionally and willfully” went to the wrong precinct to try and cast a vote, it will not be counted. (this happens often when voters assume it is ok to try to vote in a different precinct because it is more convenient to them)
  • If the voter uses a Provisional Ballot but fails to sign it, or if their signature is determined to be fraudulent or not match their registration record, it will not count.

*In all cases the Judge of Elections should call Voter Services before issuing a Provision ballot. VS will research the situation and determine the voter’s registration status first.

2024 Candidates

  • President/Vice President (Joe Biden/Kamala Harris, incumbents)
  • U.S. Senator (Bob Casey, incumbent)
  • PA Attorney General
  • PA Auditor General
  • PA Treasurer
  • U.S. 6th District Congressperson (Chrissy Houlahan, incumbent)
  • PA State Senators (50 members serve four-year terms, with half up for election every two years; Republicans currently hold a six-seat majority)
  • PA State Representatives (203 members, who serve two-year terms; Democrats currently hold a one-seat majority)
Joe Biden & Kamala Harris (INCUMBENT)

Joe Biden & Kamala Harris (INCUMBENT)

United States President & Vice President

When President Biden and Vice President Harris took office, our country faced unprecedented crises - a raging pandemic, economic crisis, climate crisis, and racial injustice. The President and Vice President ran for office on the promise to move quickly to tackle these crises head-on and deliver res...Read More

Joe Biden & Kamala Harris (INCUMBENT)

Joe Biden & Kamala Harris (INCUMBENT)

United States President & Vice President

When President Biden and Vice President Harris took office, our country faced unprecedented crises - a raging pandemic, economic crisis, climate crisis, and racial injustice. The President and Vice President ran for office on the promise to move quickly to tackle these crises head-on and deliver results for working families. That’s what the Biden-Harris Administration has done.

TOP ACCOMPLISHMENTS

  • Lowering Costs of Families’ Everyday Expenses
  • More People Are Working Than At Any Point in American History
  • Making More in America
  • Rescued the Economy and Changed the Course of the Pandemic
  • Rebuilding our Infrastructure
  • Historic Expansion of Benefits and Services for Toxic Exposed Veterans
  • The First Meaningful Gun Violence Reduction Legislation in 30 Years
  • Protected Marriage for LGBTQI+ and Interracial Couples
  • Historic Confirmation of Supreme Court Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson and Federal Judges of Diverse Backgrounds
  • Rallied the World to Support Ukraine in Response to Putin’s Aggression
  • Strengthened Alliances and Partnerships to Deliver for the American People
  • Successful Counterterrorism Missions Against the Leaders of Al Qaeda and ISIS
  • Executive Orders Protecting Reproductive Rights
  • Historic Student Debt Relief for Middle- and Working-Class Families
  • Ending our Failed Approach to Marijuana
  • Advancing Equity and Racial Justice, Including Historic Criminal Justice Reform
  • Delivering on the Most Aggressive Climate and Environmental Justice Agenda in American History
  • More People with Health Insurance Than Ever Before
Bob Casey (INCUMBENT)

Bob Casey (INCUMBENT)

United States Senator

Bob Casey was raised to believe that “all public service is a trust, given in faith and accepted in honor,” and he has brought that to every office he has held, including Pennsylvania Auditor General, State Treasurer, and U.S. Senator. In Harrisburg, Bob Casey compiled a record that focused on m...Read More

Bob Casey (INCUMBENT)

Bob Casey (INCUMBENT)

United States Senator

Bob Casey was raised to believe that “all public service is a trust, given in faith and accepted in honor,” and he has brought that to every office he has held, including Pennsylvania Auditor General, State Treasurer, and U.S. Senator. In Harrisburg, Bob Casey compiled a record that focused on making government more accountable and responsive to the needs of Pennsylvanians. He has been a fiscal watchdog who made nursing homes safer, child care more affordable and government more accountable. He led the fight to reform Megan’s Law to better protect Pennsylvania children and communities. Since he was elected to the United States Senate in 2006, Bob Casey has worked to create family-sustaining jobs and foster financial security for Pennsylvania families; protect our children and invest in their futures; ensure safety at home and respect for America abroad; promote honesty and accountability in government; preserve the dignity of the vulnerable of all ages among us; and advocate for his constituents and help them solve problems they face.

PO Box 58746,Philadelphia,PA,19102
Jack Stollsteimer

Jack Stollsteimer

PA Attorney General

In one of America's most violent cities, Jack Stollsteimer reduced gun incidents by 65% and gun homicides by 68%. Jack has stood up for women's rights, vowing that PA would never prosecute women for exercising their constitutional right to abortion. Jack Stollsteimer is the proud son of a hardworkin...Read More

Jack Stollsteimer

Jack Stollsteimer

PA Attorney General

In one of America's most violent cities, Jack Stollsteimer reduced gun incidents by 65% and gun homicides by 68%. Jack has stood up for women's rights, vowing that PA would never prosecute women for exercising their constitutional right to abortion. Jack Stollsteimer is the proud son of a hardworking, union family that helped shape his values and his vision for our shared future. Jack’s dad, Fred, dropped out of Upper Darby High School at 17 to join the U.S. Army during the Korean War. Fred came back home to Delaware County where he worked as a SEPTA bus driver and was a member of the United Transportation Union (UTU). Jack’s mom, Henrietta, immigrated to America as a refugee from a Nazi slave labor camp. Henrietta and her family settled in the city of Chester in 1951. Jack lives in Havertown with his wife Judi, son John, and daughter Sarah, both students at Haverford High School.

Malcolm Kenyatta

Malcolm Kenyatta

PA Auditor General

Representative Malcolm Kenyatta is a third-generation North Philadelphia native, thought leader, and legislator, currently serving in the Pennsylvania General Assembly. He earned a B.A. in Public Communications and a minor in Political Science from Temple University, a M.S. in Strategic and Digital ...Read More

Malcolm Kenyatta

Malcolm Kenyatta

PA Auditor General

Representative Malcolm Kenyatta is a third-generation North Philadelphia native, thought leader, and legislator, currently serving in the Pennsylvania General Assembly. He earned a B.A. in Public Communications and a minor in Political Science from Temple University, a M.S. in Strategic and Digital Communications from Drexel University and completed the Harvard Kennedy School’s Executives in State and Local Government program. He has been chosen for multiple prestigious fellowships and international delegations including: the Bertelsmann Leadership Fellow in the Digital Economy, the bipartisan Hunt/Kean Leadership Fellow in Education, and American Jewish Committee (AJC) Project Interchange. Representative Kenyatta is a barrier-breaking public figure, becoming the first openly LGBTQ+ person of color and one of the youngest members elected to the PA General Assembly in 2018. In 2022, he became the first openly LGBTQ+ person of color to run for the U.S. Senate in American history.

Ryan Bizzarro

Ryan Bizzarro

PA Treasurer

I will be a State Treasurer who fights for you. I grew-up in a large family of fighters. Outside the ring they fight for each other, just like Pennsylvanian families do every day. I grew up in a large family of fighters. Inside the ring, they fought with their fists. Outside of it, for themselves an...Read More

Ryan Bizzarro

Ryan Bizzarro

PA Treasurer

I will be a State Treasurer who fights for you. I grew-up in a large family of fighters. Outside the ring they fight for each other, just like Pennsylvanian families do every day. I grew up in a large family of fighters. Inside the ring, they fought with their fists. Outside of it, for themselves and each other. When I was a child diagnosed with Leukemia, the doctor told my parents “We can only keep him comfortable until he dies.” But my parents fought for me, and won. After two years of experimental treatments as a child in a Buffalo hospital, I am now cancer free. I serve as Pennsylvania's Democratic Policy Chair and State Representative from Erie. Formerly, I served as a victim/witness advocate for Erie County's District Attorney. My public service is dedicated to putting people first -- and fighting back against extreme agendas.

P.O. Box 8570,Erie,PA,16505
Chrissy Houlahan (Incumbent)

Chrissy Houlahan (Incumbent)

US Congress, PA-06

Elected to the US House in 2018 as the first woman and first Democrat to represent PA-06, Chrissy Houlahan is an Air Force veteran, engineer, entrepreneur, and educator. She serves on Armed Services, Foreign Affairs, and Small Business Committees. She’s on the leadership team of the New Democrat C...Read More

Chrissy Houlahan (Incumbent)

Chrissy Houlahan (Incumbent)

US Congress, PA-06

Elected to the US House in 2018 as the first woman and first Democrat to represent PA-06, Chrissy Houlahan is an Air Force veteran, engineer, entrepreneur, and educator. She serves on Armed Services, Foreign Affairs, and Small Business Committees. She’s on the leadership team of the New Democrat Coalition and is the co-founder of three Congressional Caucuses: Women in STEM, For County, and The Servicewomen, and Women Veterans Caucus.

PO Box 222,Devon,PA,19333
John Kane (INCUMBENT)

John Kane (INCUMBENT)

PA Senate District 9

Senator John Kane is a plumber and local labor leader who has spent his life fighting for working people and working families. He has personally battled through many of the challenges facing Pennsylvanians today, and is ready to be a voice at the table for Delaware and Chester Counties.

John Kane (INCUMBENT)

John Kane (INCUMBENT)

PA Senate District 9

Senator John Kane is a plumber and local labor leader who has spent his life fighting for working people and working families. He has personally battled through many of the challenges facing Pennsylvanians today, and is ready to be a voice at the table for Delaware and Chester Counties.

842 West Chester Pike,West Chester,PA
Carolyn Comitta (INCUMBENT)

Carolyn Comitta (INCUMBENT)

PA Senate District 19

An Environmental Champion. An Educator. A Community Leader. A Trusted Public Servant. A Friend You Can Count On. Throughout her career, Carolyn has embraced all of those roles and more. As State Senator for Pennsylvania’s 19th District, she is working to support strong public schools, a clean envi...Read More

Carolyn Comitta (INCUMBENT)

Carolyn Comitta (INCUMBENT)

PA Senate District 19

An Environmental Champion. An Educator. A Community Leader. A Trusted Public Servant. A Friend You Can Count On. Throughout her career, Carolyn has embraced all of those roles and more. As State Senator for Pennsylvania’s 19th District, she is working to support strong public schools, a clean environment, affordable healthcare, renewable energy, economic growth, and safe, welcoming communities where we all have an opportunity to thrive. In the Senate, Carolyn serves as minority chair of the Environmental Resources and Energy Committee and on the Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Aging and Youth, Education, and Local Government Committees. Before that, Carolyn served two terms, beginning in 2016, as State Representative for the 156th Legislative District. But she is perhaps most well known for being the first woman and first bipartisan-elected mayor of West Chester, a position she was elected to in 2010 after serving two terms on West Chester Borough Council. To all her roles, Carolyn brings the perspective of an educator, a small business owner, a mother and a grandmother, and a neighbor who cares.

115 S. Brandywine St,West Chester,PA,19382?
Cristian Luna

Cristian Luna

PA House District 13

Chester County Deputy Prothonotary Cristian Luna announced his candidacy for state representative of the 13th District, which covers municipalities in the southern and western sections of the county. A West Grove native and Avon Grove High School graduate, ...Read More

Cristian Luna

Cristian Luna

PA House District 13

Chester County Deputy Prothonotary Cristian Luna announced his candidacy for state representative of the 13th District, which covers municipalities in the southern and western sections of the county. A West Grove native and Avon Grove High School graduate, Luna said he hopes to bring a new generation’s perspective in service to the district. “The choices being made at the state level not only impact our current residents but their children and grandchildren,” Luna said. “ Now is the time for new leadership that is not only thinking about the present but bringing innovative solutions for a strong future in Southern Chester County.”

Paul Friel (Incumbent)

Paul Friel (Incumbent)

PA House District 26

Paul Friel is a local business owner, a husband, a father of four, President of the Owen J Roberts School Board, and a lifelong Pennsylvania resident. Paul is running for State Representative for the 26th district because he believes we deserve a representative who will focus on the issues that matt...Read More

Paul Friel (Incumbent)

Paul Friel (Incumbent)

PA House District 26

Paul Friel is a local business owner, a husband, a father of four, President of the Owen J Roberts School Board, and a lifelong Pennsylvania resident. Paul is running for State Representative for the 26th district because he believes we deserve a representative who will focus on the issues that matter to our community. Paul owns and operates PACE Environmental, a Mid Atlantic environmental testing and engineering firm.

PO Box 42,Kimberton Rd,Kimberton,PA,19442
Dan Williams (Incumbent)

Dan Williams (Incumbent)

PA House District 74

As the first Black Democratic Representative from Chester County, Rep. Dan Williams understands that representation matters and recognizes the importance of diverse voices in decision-making. He will continue to seek the input of individuals from various backgrounds, ensuring that his decisions refl...Read More

Dan Williams (Incumbent)

Dan Williams (Incumbent)

PA House District 74

As the first Black Democratic Representative from Chester County, Rep. Dan Williams understands that representation matters and recognizes the importance of diverse voices in decision-making. He will continue to seek the input of individuals from various backgrounds, ensuring that his decisions reflect the rich tapestry of our community. As a pastor, his role extends beyond politics, and his constant goal is to unite people and create an environment of mutual respect. In the 74th District, if re-elected, he will focus on healthcare accessibility, advocate for quality public education, prioritize property tax relief, advance labor rights, support Pennsylvania's farmers, and defend women's rights and privacy for all. These initiatives reflect his vision for an inclusive, healthy, and prosperous future for all Pennsylvanians.

Danielle Otten (Incumbent)

Danielle Otten (Incumbent)

PA House District 155

Elected in 2018, Danielle Friel Otten is the voice of the people in government. Danielle stands for the health, welfare, and safety of citizens, and the environment. The values and the reasons she ran for the State House of Representatives is commitment to building community, and serving people firs...Read More

Danielle Otten (Incumbent)

Danielle Otten (Incumbent)

PA House District 155

Elected in 2018, Danielle Friel Otten is the voice of the people in government. Danielle stands for the health, welfare, and safety of citizens, and the environment. The values and the reasons she ran for the State House of Representatives is commitment to building community, and serving people first. In 2021, Danielle was elected to serve as the House Chair for the Pennsylvania Legislative Climate Caucus. In 2022, Danielle was named the Pennsylvania State Lead for the National Caucus of Environmental Legislators. In the State House, Danielle serves on the Environmental Resources and Energy, Aging and Older Adult Services, and Human Services committees.

Chris Pielli (incumbent)

Chris Pielli (incumbent)

PA House District 156

From serving our country in the U.S. Army to our county as the first Democratic Recorder of Deeds, Chris Pielli built his career around public service. Pielli is a father, a husband, an attorney, a veteran, and a teacher. He was a Democratic State Committeeperson, and a Township Supervisor. As the R...Read More

Chris Pielli (incumbent)

Chris Pielli (incumbent)

PA House District 156

From serving our country in the U.S. Army to our county as the first Democratic Recorder of Deeds, Chris Pielli built his career around public service. Pielli is a father, a husband, an attorney, a veteran, and a teacher. He was a Democratic State Committeeperson, and a Township Supervisor. As the Republican Party threatens our basic freedoms, Pielli chooses to fight—defending voting rights; protecting our air, water, and the environment; fighting for healthcare and equal rights.

P.O. Box 2051,West Cheste,PA,19380
Melissa Shusterman (Incumbent)

Melissa Shusterman (Incumbent)

PA House District 157

Melissa Shusterman is an entrepreneur; she was elected as State Representative for Pennsylvania’s 157th District in 2018. In the legislature, Melissa serves on the Judiciary, Aging and Older Adult Services, Children and Youth, and Tourism Committees. She has authored legislation related to small b...Read More

Melissa Shusterman (Incumbent)

Melissa Shusterman (Incumbent)

PA House District 157

Melissa Shusterman is an entrepreneur; she was elected as State Representative for Pennsylvania’s 157th District in 2018. In the legislature, Melissa serves on the Judiciary, Aging and Older Adult Services, Children and Youth, and Tourism Committees. She has authored legislation related to small business loans, gun violence reform, environmental sustainability, and animal protections. She is the founder and Co-Chair of the Animal Protection Caucus and the Autism and Intellectual Disabilities Caucus.

Christina Sappey (Incumbent)

Christina Sappey (Incumbent)

PA House District 158

Prior to her election as State Representative in 2018, Christina Sappey was in senior staff positions for three state legislators since 2006. She currently serves on the PA House Committees on Agriculture & Rural Affairs, Local Government, and Veterans Affairs & Emergency Preparedness. Chris...Read More

Christina Sappey (Incumbent)

Christina Sappey (Incumbent)

PA House District 158

Prior to her election as State Representative in 2018, Christina Sappey was in senior staff positions for three state legislators since 2006. She currently serves on the PA House Committees on Agriculture & Rural Affairs, Local Government, and Veterans Affairs & Emergency Preparedness. Christina is an appointed member of the bi-partisan, bi-cameral PA Local Government Commission, as well as a member of the Autism and Intellectual Disabilities Caucus, Blue-Green, Climate Caucus, Ladies of the House, Mental Health Caucus, PA SAFE Caucus, and Women’s Health Caucus.

PO BOX 683,Kennett Square,PA,19348
Elizabeth Moro

Elizabeth Moro

PA House District 160

Elizabeth Moro, 50, of Chadds Ford, PA, has announced her candidacy for the Democratic Party for Pennsylvania Representative District 160. "In our time, we have a duty to protect our democracy, civil rights, and women's rights. We must stand together to defend the Constitution and the values that bu...Read More

Elizabeth Moro

Elizabeth Moro

PA House District 160

Elizabeth Moro, 50, of Chadds Ford, PA, has announced her candidacy for the Democratic Party for Pennsylvania Representative District 160. "In our time, we have a duty to protect our democracy, civil rights, and women's rights. We must stand together to defend the Constitution and the values that build our communities. Legislation that takes away our voice and votes proposed at our state level goes against those values, and we must move forward, not backward. The next generation is looking to us to preserve our liberties, our environment, and the ability to access the American Dream for all."

Kristine Howard (Incumbent)

Kristine Howard (Incumbent)

PA House District 167

Kristine, a graduate of University of Pennsylvania and Rutgers Law, has served as the director of a social services and legal aid clinic, represented children in foster care, and worked as a child abuse investigator. Kristine has become the Democratic Caucus go-to-expert for issues of child welfare....Read More

Kristine Howard (Incumbent)

Kristine Howard (Incumbent)

PA House District 167

Kristine, a graduate of University of Pennsylvania and Rutgers Law, has served as the director of a social services and legal aid clinic, represented children in foster care, and worked as a child abuse investigator. Kristine has become the Democratic Caucus go-to-expert for issues of child welfare. Kristine was first elected in 2018 and currently serves on Children & Youth, State Government, Agriculture and Rural Affairs and Veterans' Affairs and Emergency Preparedness Committees.

P.O. Box 252,Malvern,PA,19355

Why Vote?

Always vote!

Always Vote Because:

  • You want a fair minimum wage and equal pay for equal work.
  • You want students to have affordable loans.
  • You want the US to catch up to other countries in health care access.
  • You want a fair tax code in which the wealthy pay their fair share and the super-wealthy don’t profit from tax havens abroad.
  • You want the satisfaction of saying what you want every 6 months.
Vote in the Odd Years Too

Don’t skip voting in odd-year elections because you don’t think they are important. On the contrary, they shape your daily life. The individuals elected to every single municipal office have an impact on your family’s well-being and the policies that govern your township, school board, and county. For example:

  • Tax assessments (which may exceed your federal taxes)
  • Attention to climate change & sustainability in strategic planning
  • Condition of our streets and sewers; lack of sidewalks and bicycle trails
  • Capacity to attract new businesses and new residents
  • Criminal justice from streets to courts to prisons to fresh starts
  • Schools’ physical, social, and health environment
  • Integrity of election procedures

Adapted from the Easttown Dems

WHY VOTE DOWN BALLOT?

What does down ballot even mean? Paying attention to all candidates and casting your vote for EACH & EVERY RACE is called “Voting Down the Ballot.”  Democratic executive branch leaders (Governor and President) are severely hampered without a supportive legislative branch (US Congress and PA General Assembly).

  • A Democratic president needs Democrat US Senators from PA and Democratic US House of Representatives from PA to get progressive legislation passed.
  • A Democratic governor needs Democratic State Senators and Democratic State House Representatives to get progressive legislation passed and to protect his vetoes of objectionable legislation.
  • Likewise, with a Republican President or Governor, we need Democrats is both the US Senate and US House and PA State Senate and PA State House to halt the destruction of the what we hold dear.

So getting to the polls or voting by mail for each election is just the first step!

Unlike a river running downstream—where the runoff from the top tends to flood the banks below, Down Ballot Candidates for US Senate, US House of Representatives, PA State Senate and PA House of Representatives DO NOT automatically gain from voters for President or Governor.  We encourage you to vote the straight party ticket in the general elections, and we also encourage you to learn about all candidates.  Every Democrat needs to learn about and VOTE IN EVERY RACE ON THE BALLOT.

Much is at stake when you do not vote down ballot. Local and county governments are the closest to impacting your life and the lives of the people who you love. PA State Representatives and PA State Senators vote on bills concerning:

  • education
  • energy/renewables
  • environment
  • budget
  • taxes
  • individual and municipal rights
  • other issues that directly impact you and your family’s everyday lives.

Please Note: In odd-numbered years, candidates for School Director, Court of Common Pleas, and Magisterial District Judge can be cross-listed; therefore, not all candidates appearing as Democrats on the November ballot are actually Democrats. Contact your zone to find out who are actually Democrats and hold Democratic values.

CAN VOTERS WHO HAVE BEEN IN TROUBLE WITH THE LAW VOTE?

Unlike many states, Pennsylvania permits voting by most individuals who have a legal record. Basically, all can register and vote except those who are currently serving a sentence for a felony (the highest class of offense, more serious than misdemeanors) and who will not be released before the next election.

Or, phrased positively, the following may register and vote if they have been citizens of the United States for at least one month before the next election; have been residents of Pennsylvania and their respective election districts for at least 30 days before the next election; and will be at least 18 years of age on the day of the next election:

  • Pretrial detainees (individuals who are confined in a penal institution awaiting trial on charges of a felony or a misdemeanor).
    Convicted misdemeanants (individuals who are confined in a penal institution for conviction of a misdemeanor only).
  • Individuals who have been released (or will be released by the date of the next election) from a correctional facility or halfway house upon completion of their term of incarceration for conviction of a misdemeanor or a felony.
  • Individuals who are on probation or released on parole, including parolees who are living in a halfway house.
  • Individuals who are under house arrest (home confinement), regardless of their conviction status or the status of their conditions of confinement.

Learn More about Voting Rights for Convicted Felons, Convicted Misdemeanants, and Pretrial Detainees.

Voting is the essential act of democracy! There are those who are trying to make it harder to vote, or who question the outcome of fair elections. You can stand up to them by just that simple act of voting, whether in person or by mail.

Has anyone said to you: “But I voted for president the last time around”? Tell them: “Our democratic system has 2 elections a year, every year: a primary election in the spring and a general election in the fall. You don’t vote once every 4 years, you vote 8 times in 4 years! Anyone who votes only in the presidential general election is losing out on 87.5% of the opportunity to be heard at the polls.”

Pennsylvania has about one half million more registered Democrats than Republicans. But Democrats and Republicans are evenly split in the US Congress, have only a one vote majority in the PA General Assembly, and Republicans hold the PA State Senate. Why? A major factor is voter turnout.

Every election matters, whether you are voting for a president who will lead the nation, a school board member who will help set local education policy and budgets, or a senator who will help determine the next appointee to the US Supreme Court.

Why Vote?

Voting is the essential act of democracy! There are those who are trying to make it harder to vote, or who question the outcome of fair elections. You can stand up to them by just that simple act of voting, whether in person or by mail.

Has anyone said to you: “But I voted for president the last time around”? Tell them: “Our democratic system has 2 elections a year, every year: a primary election in the spring and a general election in the fall. You don’t vote once every 4 years, you vote 8 times in 4 years! Anyone who votes only in the presidential general election is losing out on 87.5% of the opportunity to be heard at the polls.”

Pennsylvania has almost a million more Democrats than Republicans. But Democrats have fewer seats in the US Congress and PA General Assembly as Republicans. Why? A major factor is voter turnout.

Every election matters, whether you are voting for a president who will lead the nation, a school board member who will help set local education policy and budgets, or a senator who will help determine the next appointee to the US Supreme Court.

Always vote!

Always Vote Because:

  • You want a fair minimum wage and equal pay for equal work.
  • You want students to have affordable loans.
  • You want the US to catch up to other countries in health care access.
  • You want a fair tax code in which the wealthy pay their fair share and the super-wealthy don’t profit from tax havens abroad.
  • You want the satisfaction of saying what you want every 6 months.
Vote in the Odd Years Too

Don’t skip voting in odd-year elections because because you don’t think they are important. On the contrary, they shape your daily life. The individuals elected to every single municipal office have an impact on your family’s well-being and the policies that govern your township, school board, and county. For example:

  • Tax assessments (which may exceed your federal taxes)
  • Attention to climate change & sustainability in strategic planning
  • Condition of our streets and sewers; lack of sidewalks and bicycle trails
  • Capacity to attract new businesses and new residents
  • Criminal justice from streets to courts to prisons to fresh starts
  • Schools’ physical, social, and health environment
  • Integrity of election procedures

Adapted from the Easttown Dems

WHY VOTE DOWN BALLOT?

What does down ballot even mean? Paying attention to all candidates and casting your vote for EACH & EVERY RACE is called “Voting Down the Ballot.”  Democratic executive branch leaders (Governor and President) are severely hampered without a supportive legislative branch (US Congress and PA General Assembly).

  • A Democratic president needs Democrat US Senators from PA and Democratic US House of Representatives from PA to get progressive legislation passed.
  • A Democratic governor needs Democratic State Senators and Democratic State House Representatives to get progressive legislation passed and to protect his vetoes of objectionable legislation.
  • Likewise, with a Republican President or Governor, we need Democrats is both the US Senate and US House and PA State Senate and PA State House to halt the destruction of the what we hold dear.

So getting to the polls or voting by mail for each election is just the first step!

Unlike a river running downstream—where the runoff from the top tends to flood the banks below, Down Ballot Candidates for US Senate, US House of Representatives, PA State Senate and PA House of Representatives DO NOT automatically gain from voters for President or Governor.  We encourage you to vote the straight party ticket in the general elections, and we also encourage you to learn about all candidates.  Every Democrat needs to learn about and VOTE IN EVERY RACE ON THE BALLOT.

Much is at stake when you do not vote down ballot. Local and county governments are the closest to impacting your life and the lives of the people who you love. PA State Representatives and PA State Senators vote on bills concerning:

  • education
  • energy/renewables
  • environment
  • budget
  • taxes
  • individual and municipal rights
  • other issues that directly impact you and your family’s everyday lives.

Please Note: In odd-numbered years, candidates for School Director, Court of Common Pleas, and Magisterial District Judge can be cross-listed; therefore, not all candidates appearing as Democrats on the November ballot are actually Democrats. Contact your zone to find out who are actually Democrats and hold Democratic values.

CAN VOTERS WHO HAVE BEEN IN TROUBLE WITH THE LAW VOTE?

Unlike many states, Pennsylvania permits voting by most individuals who have a legal record. Basically, all can register and vote except those who are currently serving a sentence for a felony (the highest class of offense, more serious than misdemeanors) and who will not be released before the next election.

Or, phrased positively, the following may register and vote if they have been citizens of the United States for at least one month before the next election; have been residents of Pennsylvania and their respective election districts for at least 30 days before the next election; and will be at least 18 years of age on the day of the next election:

  • Pretrial detainees (individuals who are confined in a penal institution awaiting trial on charges of a felony or a misdemeanor).
    Convicted misdemeanants (individuals who are confined in a penal institution for conviction of a misdemeanor only).
  • Individuals who have been released (or will be released by the date of the next election) from a correctional facility or halfway house upon completion of their term of incarceration for conviction of a misdemeanor or a felony.
  • Individuals who are on probation or released on parole, including parolees who are living in a halfway house.
  • Individuals who are under house arrest (home confinement), regardless of their conviction status or the status of their conditions of confinement.

Learn More about Voting Rights for Convicted Felons, Convicted Misdemeanants, and Pretrial Detainees.

Office Hours:
Mon – Thur 10AM-3PM

37 South High St.
    West Chester, PA 19382


(610) 692-5811

email CCDC