Tag: Debate Night

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👂 What We’re Hearing. The DCCC released a new TV ad in the race for PA-10, “Big Red,” highlighting Scott Perry’s extreme record. And, former Vice President Mike Pence has started a new job, teaching political science at conservative Grove City College.

🗞️ You Asked for PA News. We Deliver. Where can you find all the latest news on what’s happening in Keystone State politics? Sign up for the PoliticsPA Playbook. We’ll deliver all the latest headlines in an easy-to-read format every weekday at 8 AM. And it’s free. Add your name to the list and subscribe now.

 

Top Story

1. Debate Night Comes to Philadelphia, the New Center of the Political World

National Constitution Center in Philadelphia

“Philadelphians have always known that our city is the center of the universe. For today and the next 55 days, so will everyone else.

Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump will meet Tuesday night for a debate that’s so historic and potentially pivotal that it’s nearly impossible to fit into one sentence just how unprecedented it is. The presidential nominees are squaring off in what may be their only debate at one of our city’s great prides, the National Constitution Center, which overlooks Independence Hall and the birthplace of American democracy.” (Philadelphia Inquirer)

Elsewhere

Fracking, Energy Policy Fight Looms Over Harris, Trump Campaigns in Pennsylvania. “Issues such as the economy and abortion still top voters’ concerns this election season. And polls over the years have shown Pennsylvanians are highly divided over fracking, in large part due to concerns over health impacts.” (Pittsburgh Post-Gazette)

Why Harris and Trump Are Debating the F-Word. “The energy feud between Republican nominee Donald Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris is reviving a nearly two-decade-old debate over fracking — the technology that set off today’s U.S. oil and gas boom.” (POLITICO)

How Philadelphia’s History of Election Fraud Fuels Trump’s False Claims About the City. “The city does have a real history of some ‘bad things.’ But a lot has changed, and advocates say the attacks are unwarranted.” (Votebeat Pennsylvania)

  • ‘Determined to Blow an Election’: Things to Watch at Trump-Harris Debate. (Roll Call)
  • What Do DelVal Voters Want to Hear in Trump v Harris Debate? We Asked Them. (DV Journal)
  • Pennsylvania’s Brief History of Hosting Presidential Debates. (Axios Philadelphia)

 

State

2. Trump Falsely Claimed 20% Of PA Mail Ballots Are Fraudulent. Krasner And Shapiro Pushed Back

“A day before former President Donald Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris are set to meet in Philadelphia for their first debate, Philadelphia District Attorney Larry Krasner and Gov. Josh Shapiro responded to Trump’s latest false claims about voter fraud in Pennsylvania.

Trump, who is facing criminal charges for efforts to overturn the results of the 2020 election, made a false claim on Truth Social on Sunday that 20% of Pennsylvania’s mail ballots are fraudulent, citing an interview conducted by former Fox News anchor Tucker Carlson.

There is no evidence of widespread cheating or voter fraud in Pennsylvania’s mail voting or election administration, which Trump has targeted since he lost the state to President Joe Biden in 2020.” (Philadelphia Inquirer)

Elsewhere

2nd Casey-McCormick Debate Scheduled As Poll Shows One With A Widening Lead. “Pennsylvania voters will now have the chance to watch at least two debates, and possibly a third, between U.S. Sen. Bob Casey and Republican challenger Dave McCormick.” (PennLive)

PA-01: Fitzpatrick Rolls Out Large Coalition of Endorsements. “Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick (R-01) has announced a coalition of endorsements from more than 30 local, state and national organizations as he kicks off his reelection campaign.” (PoliticsPA)

Where Does Scott Perry’s Race Against Janelle Stelson Stand? Depends On Who’s Polling. “Where do 10th Congressional district voters stand on the closely watched race between six-term incumbent Republican U.S. Rep. Scott Perry and former WGAL TV anchor Janelle Stelson? Depends on who’s doing the asking.” (York Dispatch)

  • Scott Perry, Seeking 7th Term, Stands By Effort to Overturn 2020 Election Results. (York Dispatch)

 

Treasurer’s Race Focuses On Transparency, Politicism. “As the Pennsylvania treasurer’s election approaches in November, incumbent Stacy Garrity touts her accomplishments and stewardship of Pennsylvania’s tax dollars. However, her Democratic challenger, Erin McClelland, argues that the office needs a shakeup in the name of transparency and less-politicized investments.” (The Center Square)

Gov. Josh Shapiro Makes 20 Endorsements In PA House Races, As Dems Try to Expand Their Narrow Majority. “Among those Shapiro has endorsed are seven candidates in Southeastern Pennsylvania and seven incumbents in competitive districts, including one vulnerable Democrat in central Bucks County.” (Philadelphia Inquirer)

Waxman Proposes Expansion of Journalists’ Shield Law. “Stating that journalists need to be able to do their job without reprisal from the government, Rep. Ben Waxman (D-Philadelphia) has introduced legislation to expand the state’s shield law.” (PoliticsPA)

 

Around The Commonwealth

3. Prepare For Road Closures, Parking Restrictions For Tuesday’s Debate in Philadelphia

presidential debate

“Preparations are continuing for Tuesday night’s presidential debate in Philadelphia between Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump.

The debate will be held at the National Constitution Center at 6th and Arch Streets and is hosted by ABC News.

There will be closures for vehicle and pedestrian traffic, mass transit detours, and possible rolling street closures related to the event.” (PoliticsPA)

Elsewhere

Trump Assassination Attempt Task Force Asks Pennsylvania State Police For Trove of Records. “The 13-member bipartisan group asked the state police to provide planning and operational documents, transcripts of interviews with officials and witnesses, state trooper body camera and squad car footage, and “any communications” on the rally and shooting, both internal and with other agencies.” (Pittsburgh Post-Gazette)

Jamie Walsh Holding Victory Party in 117th State Representative Race. “After waiting more than four months with no closure, Jamie Walsh is holding a victory party Friday to celebrate his April 23 primary election Republican nomination for state representative in the 117th District.” (Wilkes-Barre Times Leader)

Free Speech Group Seeks State Employees To Challenge Shapiro Conduct Order. “A national free-speech group is looking for Pennsylvania state employees to challenge a policy issued by Gov. Josh Shapiro earlier this year that forbids state workers from engaging in “scandalous or disgraceful conduct,” an undefined term that has raised First Amendment concerns.” (PennLive)

For Mail-In Voting, Erie County Residents Won’t Need to Add Stamps. Here’s Why. “The Erie County Board of Elections voted to authorize the use of county funds to pay for postage on mail-in and absentee ballots.” (Erie Times-News)

Allegheny County to Offer In-Person Services to Voters in Run-Up to November Election. “While there was some debate about cost, enhancing ballot access is “a noble investment,” said County Executive Sara Innamorato, who has sought to expand the services available to voters since she took office at the beginning of the year.” (WESA)

‘PBS NewsHour’ Pays a Visit to the Political Battleground That Is Northampton County. “The county has a penchant for picking the winner of the presidential election, so it was fertile ground for feedback as presidential contenders Donald Trump and Kamala Harris prepare to debate Tuesday night.” (LehighValleyNews.com)

 

Editorial

4. What’s On Your Mind

 

 

Appreciation

5. James Earl Jones 1931-2024

James Earl Jones - Turner Classic Movies

James Earl Jones, the prolific film, TV and theater actor whose resonant, unmistakable baritone was most widely known as the voice of “Star Wars” villain Darth Vader, died Monday morning at his home in Dutchess County, N.Y., his rep confirmed to Variety. He was 93.

After overcoming a profound stutter as a child, Jones established himself as one of the pioneering Black actors of his generation, amassing a bountiful and versatile career spanning over 60 years.” (Variety)

 

Thanks for starting your morning with us.
Please invite your friends
to subscribe to the PoliticsPA Playbook

🎤 Hello, Tuesday. Working the debate tonight? PoliticsPA will be there to provide reaction and flavor. Stop by the Convention Center and say hello.

PA Weather
☀️ Pittsburgh | Sunny, 81
☀️ Harrisburg | Sunny, 80
☀️ Philadelphia | Sunny, 81

PA Sports
⚾ Phillies (86-58) | Tampa Bay 2-1 | Tue-Wed vs. Tampa Bay
⚾ Pirates (68-76) | Miami 3-2 | Tue-Wed vs. Miami

👂 What We’re Hearing. The DCCC released a new TV ad in the race for PA-10, “Big Red,” highlighting Scott Perry’s extreme record. And, former Vice President Mike Pence has started a new job, teaching political science at conservative Grove City College.

🗞️ You Asked for PA News. We Deliver. Where can you find all the latest news on what’s happening in Keystone State politics? Sign up for the PoliticsPA Playbook. We’ll deliver all the latest headlines in an easy-to-read format every weekday at 8 AM. And it’s free. Add your name to the list and subscribe now.

 

Top Story

1. Debate Night Comes to Philadelphia, the New Center of the Political World

National Constitution Center in Philadelphia

“Philadelphians have always known that our city is the center of the universe. For today and the next 55 days, so will everyone else.

Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump will meet Tuesday night for a debate that’s so historic and potentially pivotal that it’s nearly impossible to fit into one sentence just how unprecedented it is. The presidential nominees are squaring off in what may be their only debate at one of our city’s great prides, the National Constitution Center, which overlooks Independence Hall and the birthplace of American democracy.” (Philadelphia Inquirer)

Elsewhere

Fracking, Energy Policy Fight Looms Over Harris, Trump Campaigns in Pennsylvania. “Issues such as the economy and abortion still top voters’ concerns this election season. And polls over the years have shown Pennsylvanians are highly divided over fracking, in large part due to concerns over health impacts.” (Pittsburgh Post-Gazette)

Why Harris and Trump Are Debating the F-Word. “The energy feud between Republican nominee Donald Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris is reviving a nearly two-decade-old debate over fracking — the technology that set off today’s U.S. oil and gas boom.” (POLITICO)

How Philadelphia’s History of Election Fraud Fuels Trump’s False Claims About the City. “The city does have a real history of some ‘bad things.’ But a lot has changed, and advocates say the attacks are unwarranted.” (Votebeat Pennsylvania)

  • ‘Determined to Blow an Election’: Things to Watch at Trump-Harris Debate. (Roll Call)
  • What Do DelVal Voters Want to Hear in Trump v Harris Debate? We Asked Them. (DV Journal)
  • Pennsylvania’s Brief History of Hosting Presidential Debates. (Axios Philadelphia)

 

State

2. Trump Falsely Claimed 20% Of PA Mail Ballots Are Fraudulent. Krasner And Shapiro Pushed Back

“A day before former President Donald Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris are set to meet in Philadelphia for their first debate, Philadelphia District Attorney Larry Krasner and Gov. Josh Shapiro responded to Trump’s latest false claims about voter fraud in Pennsylvania.

Trump, who is facing criminal charges for efforts to overturn the results of the 2020 election, made a false claim on Truth Social on Sunday that 20% of Pennsylvania’s mail ballots are fraudulent, citing an interview conducted by former Fox News anchor Tucker Carlson.

There is no evidence of widespread cheating or voter fraud in Pennsylvania’s mail voting or election administration, which Trump has targeted since he lost the state to President Joe Biden in 2020.” (Philadelphia Inquirer)

Elsewhere

2nd Casey-McCormick Debate Scheduled As Poll Shows One With A Widening Lead. “Pennsylvania voters will now have the chance to watch at least two debates, and possibly a third, between U.S. Sen. Bob Casey and Republican challenger Dave McCormick.” (PennLive)

PA-01: Fitzpatrick Rolls Out Large Coalition of Endorsements. “Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick (R-01) has announced a coalition of endorsements from more than 30 local, state and national organizations as he kicks off his reelection campaign.” (PoliticsPA)

Where Does Scott Perry’s Race Against Janelle Stelson Stand? Depends On Who’s Polling. “Where do 10th Congressional district voters stand on the closely watched race between six-term incumbent Republican U.S. Rep. Scott Perry and former WGAL TV anchor Janelle Stelson? Depends on who’s doing the asking.” (York Dispatch)

  • Scott Perry, Seeking 7th Term, Stands By Effort to Overturn 2020 Election Results. (York Dispatch)

 

Treasurer’s Race Focuses On Transparency, Politicism. “As the Pennsylvania treasurer’s election approaches in November, incumbent Stacy Garrity touts her accomplishments and stewardship of Pennsylvania’s tax dollars. However, her Democratic challenger, Erin McClelland, argues that the office needs a shakeup in the name of transparency and less-politicized investments.” (The Center Square)

Gov. Josh Shapiro Makes 20 Endorsements In PA House Races, As Dems Try to Expand Their Narrow Majority. “Among those Shapiro has endorsed are seven candidates in Southeastern Pennsylvania and seven incumbents in competitive districts, including one vulnerable Democrat in central Bucks County.” (Philadelphia Inquirer)

Waxman Proposes Expansion of Journalists’ Shield Law. “Stating that journalists need to be able to do their job without reprisal from the government, Rep. Ben Waxman (D-Philadelphia) has introduced legislation to expand the state’s shield law.” (PoliticsPA)

 

Around The Commonwealth

3. Prepare For Road Closures, Parking Restrictions For Tuesday’s Debate in Philadelphia

presidential debate

“Preparations are continuing for Tuesday night’s presidential debate in Philadelphia between Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump.

The debate will be held at the National Constitution Center at 6th and Arch Streets and is hosted by ABC News.

There will be closures for vehicle and pedestrian traffic, mass transit detours, and possible rolling street closures related to the event.” (PoliticsPA)

Elsewhere

Trump Assassination Attempt Task Force Asks Pennsylvania State Police For Trove of Records. “The 13-member bipartisan group asked the state police to provide planning and operational documents, transcripts of interviews with officials and witnesses, state trooper body camera and squad car footage, and “any communications” on the rally and shooting, both internal and with other agencies.” (Pittsburgh Post-Gazette)

Jamie Walsh Holding Victory Party in 117th State Representative Race. “After waiting more than four months with no closure, Jamie Walsh is holding a victory party Friday to celebrate his April 23 primary election Republican nomination for state representative in the 117th District.” (Wilkes-Barre Times Leader)

Free Speech Group Seeks State Employees To Challenge Shapiro Conduct Order. “A national free-speech group is looking for Pennsylvania state employees to challenge a policy issued by Gov. Josh Shapiro earlier this year that forbids state workers from engaging in “scandalous or disgraceful conduct,” an undefined term that has raised First Amendment concerns.” (PennLive)

For Mail-In Voting, Erie County Residents Won’t Need to Add Stamps. Here’s Why. “The Erie County Board of Elections voted to authorize the use of county funds to pay for postage on mail-in and absentee ballots.” (Erie Times-News)

Allegheny County to Offer In-Person Services to Voters in Run-Up to November Election. “While there was some debate about cost, enhancing ballot access is “a noble investment,” said County Executive Sara Innamorato, who has sought to expand the services available to voters since she took office at the beginning of the year.” (WESA)

‘PBS NewsHour’ Pays a Visit to the Political Battleground That Is Northampton County. “The county has a penchant for picking the winner of the presidential election, so it was fertile ground for feedback as presidential contenders Donald Trump and Kamala Harris prepare to debate Tuesday night.” (LehighValleyNews.com)

 

Editorial

4. What’s On Your Mind

 

 

Appreciation

5. James Earl Jones 1931-2024

James Earl Jones - Turner Classic Movies

James Earl Jones, the prolific film, TV and theater actor whose resonant, unmistakable baritone was most widely known as the voice of “Star Wars” villain Darth Vader, died Monday morning at his home in Dutchess County, N.Y., his rep confirmed to Variety. He was 93.

After overcoming a profound stutter as a child, Jones established himself as one of the pioneering Black actors of his generation, amassing a bountiful and versatile career spanning over 60 years.” (Variety)

 

Thanks for starting your morning with us.
Please invite your friends
to subscribe to the PoliticsPA Playbook

Email:

🎤 Hello, Tuesday. Working the debate tonight? PoliticsPA will be there to provide reaction and flavor. Stop by the Convention Center and say hello.

PA Weather
☀️ Pittsburgh | Sunny, 81
☀️ Harrisburg | Sunny, 80
☀️ Philadelphia | Sunny, 81

PA Sports
⚾ Phillies (86-58) | Tampa Bay 2-1 | Tue-Wed vs. Tampa Bay
⚾ Pirates (68-76) | Miami 3-2 | Tue-Wed vs. Miami

👂 What We’re Hearing. The DCCC released a new TV ad in the race for PA-10, “Big Red,” highlighting Scott Perry’s extreme record. And, former Vice President Mike Pence has started a new job, teaching political science at conservative Grove City College.

🗞️ You Asked for PA News. We Deliver. Where can you find all the latest news on what’s happening in Keystone State politics? Sign up for the PoliticsPA Playbook. We’ll deliver all the latest headlines in an easy-to-read format every weekday at 8 AM. And it’s free. Add your name to the list and subscribe now.

 

Top Story

1. Debate Night Comes to Philadelphia, the New Center of the Political World

National Constitution Center in Philadelphia

“Philadelphians have always known that our city is the center of the universe. For today and the next 55 days, so will everyone else.

Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump will meet Tuesday night for a debate that’s so historic and potentially pivotal that it’s nearly impossible to fit into one sentence just how unprecedented it is. The presidential nominees are squaring off in what may be their only debate at one of our city’s great prides, the National Constitution Center, which overlooks Independence Hall and the birthplace of American democracy.” (Philadelphia Inquirer)

Elsewhere

Fracking, Energy Policy Fight Looms Over Harris, Trump Campaigns in Pennsylvania. “Issues such as the economy and abortion still top voters’ concerns this election season. And polls over the years have shown Pennsylvanians are highly divided over fracking, in large part due to concerns over health impacts.” (Pittsburgh Post-Gazette)

Why Harris and Trump Are Debating the F-Word. “The energy feud between Republican nominee Donald Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris is reviving a nearly two-decade-old debate over fracking — the technology that set off today’s U.S. oil and gas boom.” (POLITICO)

How Philadelphia’s History of Election Fraud Fuels Trump’s False Claims About the City. “The city does have a real history of some ‘bad things.’ But a lot has changed, and advocates say the attacks are unwarranted.” (Votebeat Pennsylvania)

  • ‘Determined to Blow an Election’: Things to Watch at Trump-Harris Debate. (Roll Call)
  • What Do DelVal Voters Want to Hear in Trump v Harris Debate? We Asked Them. (DV Journal)
  • Pennsylvania’s Brief History of Hosting Presidential Debates. (Axios Philadelphia)

 

State

2. Trump Falsely Claimed 20% Of PA Mail Ballots Are Fraudulent. Krasner And Shapiro Pushed Back

“A day before former President Donald Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris are set to meet in Philadelphia for their first debate, Philadelphia District Attorney Larry Krasner and Gov. Josh Shapiro responded to Trump’s latest false claims about voter fraud in Pennsylvania.

Trump, who is facing criminal charges for efforts to overturn the results of the 2020 election, made a false claim on Truth Social on Sunday that 20% of Pennsylvania’s mail ballots are fraudulent, citing an interview conducted by former Fox News anchor Tucker Carlson.

There is no evidence of widespread cheating or voter fraud in Pennsylvania’s mail voting or election administration, which Trump has targeted since he lost the state to President Joe Biden in 2020.” (Philadelphia Inquirer)

Elsewhere

2nd Casey-McCormick Debate Scheduled As Poll Shows One With A Widening Lead. “Pennsylvania voters will now have the chance to watch at least two debates, and possibly a third, between U.S. Sen. Bob Casey and Republican challenger Dave McCormick.” (PennLive)

PA-01: Fitzpatrick Rolls Out Large Coalition of Endorsements. “Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick (R-01) has announced a coalition of endorsements from more than 30 local, state and national organizations as he kicks off his reelection campaign.” (PoliticsPA)

Where Does Scott Perry’s Race Against Janelle Stelson Stand? Depends On Who’s Polling. “Where do 10th Congressional district voters stand on the closely watched race between six-term incumbent Republican U.S. Rep. Scott Perry and former WGAL TV anchor Janelle Stelson? Depends on who’s doing the asking.” (York Dispatch)

  • Scott Perry, Seeking 7th Term, Stands By Effort to Overturn 2020 Election Results. (York Dispatch)

 

Treasurer’s Race Focuses On Transparency, Politicism. “As the Pennsylvania treasurer’s election approaches in November, incumbent Stacy Garrity touts her accomplishments and stewardship of Pennsylvania’s tax dollars. However, her Democratic challenger, Erin McClelland, argues that the office needs a shakeup in the name of transparency and less-politicized investments.” (The Center Square)

Gov. Josh Shapiro Makes 20 Endorsements In PA House Races, As Dems Try to Expand Their Narrow Majority. “Among those Shapiro has endorsed are seven candidates in Southeastern Pennsylvania and seven incumbents in competitive districts, including one vulnerable Democrat in central Bucks County.” (Philadelphia Inquirer)

Waxman Proposes Expansion of Journalists’ Shield Law. “Stating that journalists need to be able to do their job without reprisal from the government, Rep. Ben Waxman (D-Philadelphia) has introduced legislation to expand the state’s shield law.” (PoliticsPA)

 

Around The Commonwealth

3. Prepare For Road Closures, Parking Restrictions For Tuesday’s Debate in Philadelphia

presidential debate

“Preparations are continuing for Tuesday night’s presidential debate in Philadelphia between Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump.

The debate will be held at the National Constitution Center at 6th and Arch Streets and is hosted by ABC News.

There will be closures for vehicle and pedestrian traffic, mass transit detours, and possible rolling street closures related to the event.” (PoliticsPA)

Elsewhere

Trump Assassination Attempt Task Force Asks Pennsylvania State Police For Trove of Records. “The 13-member bipartisan group asked the state police to provide planning and operational documents, transcripts of interviews with officials and witnesses, state trooper body camera and squad car footage, and “any communications” on the rally and shooting, both internal and with other agencies.” (Pittsburgh Post-Gazette)

Jamie Walsh Holding Victory Party in 117th State Representative Race. “After waiting more than four months with no closure, Jamie Walsh is holding a victory party Friday to celebrate his April 23 primary election Republican nomination for state representative in the 117th District.” (Wilkes-Barre Times Leader)

Free Speech Group Seeks State Employees To Challenge Shapiro Conduct Order. “A national free-speech group is looking for Pennsylvania state employees to challenge a policy issued by Gov. Josh Shapiro earlier this year that forbids state workers from engaging in “scandalous or disgraceful conduct,” an undefined term that has raised First Amendment concerns.” (PennLive)

For Mail-In Voting, Erie County Residents Won’t Need to Add Stamps. Here’s Why. “The Erie County Board of Elections voted to authorize the use of county funds to pay for postage on mail-in and absentee ballots.” (Erie Times-News)

Allegheny County to Offer In-Person Services to Voters in Run-Up to November Election. “While there was some debate about cost, enhancing ballot access is “a noble investment,” said County Executive Sara Innamorato, who has sought to expand the services available to voters since she took office at the beginning of the year.” (WESA)

‘PBS NewsHour’ Pays a Visit to the Political Battleground That Is Northampton County. “The county has a penchant for picking the winner of the presidential election, so it was fertile ground for feedback as presidential contenders Donald Trump and Kamala Harris prepare to debate Tuesday night.” (LehighValleyNews.com)

 

Editorial

4. What’s On Your Mind

 

 

Appreciation

5. James Earl Jones 1931-2024

James Earl Jones - Turner Classic Movies

James Earl Jones, the prolific film, TV and theater actor whose resonant, unmistakable baritone was most widely known as the voice of “Star Wars” villain Darth Vader, died Monday morning at his home in Dutchess County, N.Y., his rep confirmed to Variety. He was 93.

After overcoming a profound stutter as a child, Jones established himself as one of the pioneering Black actors of his generation, amassing a bountiful and versatile career spanning over 60 years.” (Variety)

 

Thanks for starting your morning with us.
Please invite your friends
to subscribe to the PoliticsPA Playbook

🎤 Hello, Tuesday. Working the debate tonight? PoliticsPA will be there to provide reaction and flavor. Stop by the Convention Center and say hello.

PA Weather
☀️ Pittsburgh | Sunny, 81
☀️ Harrisburg | Sunny, 80
☀️ Philadelphia | Sunny, 81

PA Sports
⚾ Phillies (86-58) | Tampa Bay 2-1 | Tue-Wed vs. Tampa Bay
⚾ Pirates (68-76) | Miami 3-2 | Tue-Wed vs. Miami

👂 What We’re Hearing. The DCCC released a new TV ad in the race for PA-10, “Big Red,” highlighting Scott Perry’s extreme record. And, former Vice President Mike Pence has started a new job, teaching political science at conservative Grove City College.

🗞️ You Asked for PA News. We Deliver. Where can you find all the latest news on what’s happening in Keystone State politics? Sign up for the PoliticsPA Playbook. We’ll deliver all the latest headlines in an easy-to-read format every weekday at 8 AM. And it’s free. Add your name to the list and subscribe now.

 

Top Story

1. Debate Night Comes to Philadelphia, the New Center of the Political World

National Constitution Center in Philadelphia

“Philadelphians have always known that our city is the center of the universe. For today and the next 55 days, so will everyone else.

Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump will meet Tuesday night for a debate that’s so historic and potentially pivotal that it’s nearly impossible to fit into one sentence just how unprecedented it is. The presidential nominees are squaring off in what may be their only debate at one of our city’s great prides, the National Constitution Center, which overlooks Independence Hall and the birthplace of American democracy.” (Philadelphia Inquirer)

Elsewhere

Fracking, Energy Policy Fight Looms Over Harris, Trump Campaigns in Pennsylvania. “Issues such as the economy and abortion still top voters’ concerns this election season. And polls over the years have shown Pennsylvanians are highly divided over fracking, in large part due to concerns over health impacts.” (Pittsburgh Post-Gazette)

Why Harris and Trump Are Debating the F-Word. “The energy feud between Republican nominee Donald Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris is reviving a nearly two-decade-old debate over fracking — the technology that set off today’s U.S. oil and gas boom.” (POLITICO)

How Philadelphia’s History of Election Fraud Fuels Trump’s False Claims About the City. “The city does have a real history of some ‘bad things.’ But a lot has changed, and advocates say the attacks are unwarranted.” (Votebeat Pennsylvania)

  • ‘Determined to Blow an Election’: Things to Watch at Trump-Harris Debate. (Roll Call)
  • What Do DelVal Voters Want to Hear in Trump v Harris Debate? We Asked Them. (DV Journal)
  • Pennsylvania’s Brief History of Hosting Presidential Debates. (Axios Philadelphia)

 

State

2. Trump Falsely Claimed 20% Of PA Mail Ballots Are Fraudulent. Krasner And Shapiro Pushed Back

“A day before former President Donald Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris are set to meet in Philadelphia for their first debate, Philadelphia District Attorney Larry Krasner and Gov. Josh Shapiro responded to Trump’s latest false claims about voter fraud in Pennsylvania.

Trump, who is facing criminal charges for efforts to overturn the results of the 2020 election, made a false claim on Truth Social on Sunday that 20% of Pennsylvania’s mail ballots are fraudulent, citing an interview conducted by former Fox News anchor Tucker Carlson.

There is no evidence of widespread cheating or voter fraud in Pennsylvania’s mail voting or election administration, which Trump has targeted since he lost the state to President Joe Biden in 2020.” (Philadelphia Inquirer)

Elsewhere

2nd Casey-McCormick Debate Scheduled As Poll Shows One With A Widening Lead. “Pennsylvania voters will now have the chance to watch at least two debates, and possibly a third, between U.S. Sen. Bob Casey and Republican challenger Dave McCormick.” (PennLive)

PA-01: Fitzpatrick Rolls Out Large Coalition of Endorsements. “Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick (R-01) has announced a coalition of endorsements from more than 30 local, state and national organizations as he kicks off his reelection campaign.” (PoliticsPA)

Where Does Scott Perry’s Race Against Janelle Stelson Stand? Depends On Who’s Polling. “Where do 10th Congressional district voters stand on the closely watched race between six-term incumbent Republican U.S. Rep. Scott Perry and former WGAL TV anchor Janelle Stelson? Depends on who’s doing the asking.” (York Dispatch)

  • Scott Perry, Seeking 7th Term, Stands By Effort to Overturn 2020 Election Results. (York Dispatch)

 

Treasurer’s Race Focuses On Transparency, Politicism. “As the Pennsylvania treasurer’s election approaches in November, incumbent Stacy Garrity touts her accomplishments and stewardship of Pennsylvania’s tax dollars. However, her Democratic challenger, Erin McClelland, argues that the office needs a shakeup in the name of transparency and less-politicized investments.” (The Center Square)

Gov. Josh Shapiro Makes 20 Endorsements In PA House Races, As Dems Try to Expand Their Narrow Majority. “Among those Shapiro has endorsed are seven candidates in Southeastern Pennsylvania and seven incumbents in competitive districts, including one vulnerable Democrat in central Bucks County.” (Philadelphia Inquirer)

Waxman Proposes Expansion of Journalists’ Shield Law. “Stating that journalists need to be able to do their job without reprisal from the government, Rep. Ben Waxman (D-Philadelphia) has introduced legislation to expand the state’s shield law.” (PoliticsPA)

 

Around The Commonwealth

3. Prepare For Road Closures, Parking Restrictions For Tuesday’s Debate in Philadelphia

presidential debate

“Preparations are continuing for Tuesday night’s presidential debate in Philadelphia between Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump.

The debate will be held at the National Constitution Center at 6th and Arch Streets and is hosted by ABC News.

There will be closures for vehicle and pedestrian traffic, mass transit detours, and possible rolling street closures related to the event.” (PoliticsPA)

Elsewhere

Trump Assassination Attempt Task Force Asks Pennsylvania State Police For Trove of Records. “The 13-member bipartisan group asked the state police to provide planning and operational documents, transcripts of interviews with officials and witnesses, state trooper body camera and squad car footage, and “any communications” on the rally and shooting, both internal and with other agencies.” (Pittsburgh Post-Gazette)

Jamie Walsh Holding Victory Party in 117th State Representative Race. “After waiting more than four months with no closure, Jamie Walsh is holding a victory party Friday to celebrate his April 23 primary election Republican nomination for state representative in the 117th District.” (Wilkes-Barre Times Leader)

Free Speech Group Seeks State Employees To Challenge Shapiro Conduct Order. “A national free-speech group is looking for Pennsylvania state employees to challenge a policy issued by Gov. Josh Shapiro earlier this year that forbids state workers from engaging in “scandalous or disgraceful conduct,” an undefined term that has raised First Amendment concerns.” (PennLive)

For Mail-In Voting, Erie County Residents Won’t Need to Add Stamps. Here’s Why. “The Erie County Board of Elections voted to authorize the use of county funds to pay for postage on mail-in and absentee ballots.” (Erie Times-News)

Allegheny County to Offer In-Person Services to Voters in Run-Up to November Election. “While there was some debate about cost, enhancing ballot access is “a noble investment,” said County Executive Sara Innamorato, who has sought to expand the services available to voters since she took office at the beginning of the year.” (WESA)

‘PBS NewsHour’ Pays a Visit to the Political Battleground That Is Northampton County. “The county has a penchant for picking the winner of the presidential election, so it was fertile ground for feedback as presidential contenders Donald Trump and Kamala Harris prepare to debate Tuesday night.” (LehighValleyNews.com)

 

Editorial

4. What’s On Your Mind

 

 

Appreciation

5. James Earl Jones 1931-2024

James Earl Jones - Turner Classic Movies

James Earl Jones, the prolific film, TV and theater actor whose resonant, unmistakable baritone was most widely known as the voice of “Star Wars” villain Darth Vader, died Monday morning at his home in Dutchess County, N.Y., his rep confirmed to Variety. He was 93.

After overcoming a profound stutter as a child, Jones established himself as one of the pioneering Black actors of his generation, amassing a bountiful and versatile career spanning over 60 years.” (Variety)

 

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