Keystone Today

Yesterday, the Pennsylvania State Supreme Court rejected a petition from voting rights groups to review an issue concerning mail ballots. Philip Hensley-Robin, Executive Director of Common Cause Pennsylvania, expressed disappointment over the court's decision.

"We are deeply disappointed by the state Supreme Court’s decision not to hear our case to count all voters’ ballots, even those with a missing or incorrect date on the voter’s declaration. The inclusion of the date is irrelevant in determining the voter’s eligibility," said Hensley-Robin.

He emphasized that this decision might result in many voters being unable to participate in an election that could decide the presidency. "The result is that thousands of voters will likely be silenced in this year’s election that could determine who wins the presidency," he added. He stressed the importance of counties notifying voters about any issues with their ballot envelopes and allowing them to correct such errors.

Despite disagreeing with what he termed as a "bad decision" by the court, Hensley-Robin assured that Common Cause Pennsylvania would continue supporting voters' rights. "Common Cause Pennsylvania will continue to help all voters exercise their freedom to vote," he stated.

Voters needing assistance with mail voting can contact a nonpartisan hotline at 866-OUR-VOTE for expert advice in multiple languages.