Rigged Ballots Disqualified
In a landmark decision, the PA Supreme Court has overruled the Commonwealth Court, asserting that the latter lacked jurisdiction in its attempt to mandate the counting of undated or misdated mail-in ballots. This ruling has significant implications for the 2024 election, as those ballots will not be counted, ensuring that election laws are followed to the letter. This is the 2nd major election integrity victory in critical swing states in less than one month as an Arizona law requiring proof of US citizenship to vote was upheld by the US Supreme Court in August. Conservatives across the nation are celebrating the decision, viewing it as a victory for election integrity and the rule of law.
Election Integrity Wins: The Legal Context
The dispute arose when the Commonwealth Court attempted to assert its authority to mandate the counting of undated and misdated mail-in ballots. According to Pennsylvania law, voters must fill out mail-in ballots correctly, including providing the correct date on their return envelope. The law serves as a safeguard, ensuring that voters follow proper procedures to prevent potential fraud or mishandling.
The Supreme Court’s ruling makes it clear that the Commonwealth Court overstepped its bounds. Specifically, the Pennsylvania Supreme Court stated that the lower court “lacked subject matter jurisdiction” due to a failure to name all 67 county boards of elections. Furthermore, the inclusion of Al Schmidt, Secretary of the Commonwealth, was not sufficient to invoke the Commonwealth Court’s original jurisdiction.
For conservatives, this ruling is a relief and a reinforcement of the importance of adhering to established election laws. The decision strengthens the overall integrity of Pennsylvania’s election process by preventing the manipulation of mail-in ballot procedures, which have been a point of contention in recent years.
Rule of Law Prevails: Why the Decision Matters
The Pennsylvania Supreme Court’s ruling is about more than just a technicality in jurisdiction—it is a defense of the rule of law. Conservatives have long argued that mail-in voting is susceptible to abuse if not properly regulated. This ruling ensures that election officials and courts cannot arbitrarily change or ignore established election rules for political convenience.
By requiring strict adherence to the rules regarding mail-in ballots, the court is upholding a key principle: if a voter cannot follow the legal procedures required to submit a valid ballot, that ballot should not be counted. The law must be equally applied to every voter, and exceptions should not be made based on political pressures or convenience.
This decision sends a strong message to those who seek to undermine election laws. It reaffirms that the judiciary will not tolerate attempts to bend the rules, especially when it comes to the critical issue of voting. Every vote should count, but only if it is cast according to the law.
The 2024 Election: What This Means for Mail-In Voting
With the 2024 election approaching, the Pennsylvania Supreme Court’s ruling has immediate implications. Pennsylvania, as a key swing state, will be under intense scrutiny, and this decision sets a clear precedent for how mail-in ballots should be handled. Those who fail to date or misdate their ballots will find that their votes will not be counted—a consequence that could have significant impacts in close races.
This is a crucial step in restoring trust in the electoral process and gives a fair playing field for Donald Trump challenging Kamala Harris. The 2020 election saw widespread criticism of mail-in voting, with many conservatives believing that relaxed rules around these ballots led to confusion, potential fraud, and manipulation. This ruling ensures that such issues will not be repeated in 2024, at least in Pennsylvania.
Moreover, it highlights the necessity of voter responsibility. Mail-in voting is a privilege, not a right to be taken lightly. By enforcing rules around ballot submission, the court is ensuring that only those who respect the integrity of the voting process will have their voices heard.
A Victory for Election Reform Advocates
For years, conservatives have pushed for election reforms that would tighten the procedures around mail-in voting and prevent its abuse. This ruling is a major victory for those efforts. It shows that the courts are willing to take election integrity seriously and that they are not afraid to reject attempts to circumvent established voting laws.
While progressives may argue that this decision disenfranchises voters, the truth is that it does the opposite. By ensuring that every vote cast is a legal vote, the Pennsylvania Supreme Court is protecting the voices of lawful voters. Those who take the time to follow the rules should not have their votes diluted by ballots that fail to meet the legal standards.
The Importance of Vigilance Moving Forward
This ruling underscores the importance of continued vigilance in protecting election integrity. As we head into the 2024 election, there will undoubtedly be further attempts to challenge or weaken established election laws, especially regarding mail-in voting. Conservatives must remain steadfast in their support for reforms that ensure free, fair, and transparent elections.
This decision is a reminder that the rule of law is still paramount in our electoral system. The Pennsylvania Supreme Court has made it clear: rules matter, and those who try to bypass them will not succeed.
