This one’s for everyone who’s ever said, “my vote doesn’t count.” We break down how Pennsylvania’s courts shape your daily life, why judicial elections are on the ballot this November 4, and how youth turnout and registration can swing outcomes in real ways. If you marched at the No Kings Rally, this is the action step that follows: vote.

🎯 Why watch PA is one of only 7 states where voters elect all judges, from local benches to the PA Supreme Court.

In odd years, you’re voting for judges, mayors, DAs, school boards, and more. Youth registration is lagging: only 1 in 4 PA high schoolers of voting age are registered; in Philly/Pittsburgh it’s about 15%; at Chester High it’s 6%.

Retention votes this year include Christine Donohue, Kevin Dougherty, David Wecht on the PA Supreme Court. Retention is a Yes/No box — no party labels.

💡 What you’ll learn
-How courts work in PA: minor courts → Courts of Common Pleas → Commonwealth & Superior Courts → PA Supreme Court
-Why retention matters, and what happens if seats go vacant
-Your rights in PA’s state constitution (clean air, pure water; thorough and efficient education) and the school funding decision
-Practical voting tips: provisional ballots, voting on campus, and planning your vote-by-mail or in-person plan

🗓️ Key dates (Pennsylvania) Election Day: Nov 4 (ballots must be received by 8pm)

Voting by mail? Seal, sign, date the envelope and use an official drop box if you don’t trust the mail.
If there’s a problem at the polls, request a provisional ballot — it’s your right.

Review your ballot before you go. Check nonpartisan resources like the PA Bar Association and your county election office.

If you want change after the rally, the ballot is where you make it stick.