After Governor Wolf violates election law, questions about election reform continue - WJAC Johnstown
Dauphin County, PA — Questions regarding election reform are once again being raised after Governor Tom Wolf broke the state’s election law policy by having his wife turn in his mail-in ballot.
“For as much as we’ve been discussing elections, mail-in ballots, the entire process, someone in that position should have known that’s illegal,” State Representative Seth Grove tells CBS 21 News’ Samantha York.
Joining KDKA Radio Morning Show in Pittsburgh Tuesday, Governor Wolf revealed First Lady Frances Wolf dropped off his mail ballot for him. The problem is it’s against state law, which requires voters to turn in their own ballot.
“I didn’t show in person at the polls. We voted a couple weeks ago actually,” Governor Wolf said on the radio show. “My wife actually dropped it off personally two weeks ago, so it’s there.”
Governor Wolf’s office responds to CBS 21 News’ request with the statement below:
“It was an honest mistake.”
“For an average citizen, that’s true,” Representative Grove responds. “But he is the Governor of the Commonwealth.”
State Representative Seth Grove says he understands it’s typical for spouses or family members to pick up or drop off items for each other. However, he says this is illegal and brings questions regarding how often this happens and what security risks it poses to the forefront.
“I think we can do a lot better in our elections to help people vote securely and modernize it, help our election officials administer it easier,” Representative Grove continues.
He introduced HB 1300 to allow household members to return each other’s ballots, early in-person voting, verification at ballot drop offs and signature verification, as well as stricter ID requirements. Governor Wolf vetoed the bill in June, partially for the ID rules.
“We did put a bill on his desk that really does help individuals vote in an easier fashion but provide the right security features,” he adds.
By law, the First Lady could face a fine of up to $1,000, a year in prison, or a combination of the two. Governor Wolf’s vote could be considered invalid. The Office of the District Attorney of York sent the following statement to CBS 21 News:
“The Office of the District Attorney is unable to confirm or deny the existence of any criminal investigation until such time as charges are, or are not filed against an individual.”
The state’s policy is designed to keep the integrity of the election and ensure no fraudulent ballots are cast. Pennsylvania does allow exceptions for those with disabilities who can’t turn in their ballots or for emergency ballots.
“We can correct these things to make sure that average citizens don’t run a foul through the law,” Representative Grove says.
source: https://wjactv.com/news/local/after-governor-wolf-violates-election-law-questions-about-election-reform-continue
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