A guide to voting in Pennsylvania’s 2024 primary election

The primary election in Pennsylvania is April 23. Here’s what you’ll need to know when you head to the polls.

Election season is already in full swing, and the first hurdle political hopefuls need to get over is the primary election. In Pennsylvania this year, the primary election is on Tuesday, April 23. 

The commonwealth has a closed primary system, which means that only Democrats and Republicans can vote for their party’s nominees to run in the general election. 

With it being a presidential election year, and other key races in Pennsylvania taking place, such as for US Senate and House, don’t let your voice go unheard. Get out and vote. Here’s what you’ll need to know to head to the polls for the primary election.

When can I vote?

Polling places are open on April 23 from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. As long as you are in line at 8 p.m., your vote will count.

How long does it take?

Typically less than 30 minutes, but it’s a presidential election year, so it might be a little busier. There’s usually a morning, lunchtime, and evening rush. 

Where do I vote?

Look up your polling place at vote.pa.gov. 

Is my polling place always the same?

Not always. Polling places can change for a variety of reasons, and where you vote this year may not be the same place you cast your ballot last time around. That’s why it’s a good idea to double check. You can do that at vote.pa.gov.

I forgot to register. Can I still vote?

To vote in Pennsylvania, you must register at least 15 days before the election. 

To make sure you don’t get shut out of voting in November’s general election, you can register to vote online, by mail, or at a number of government agencies, such as Pennsylvania Driver’s License Centers.

What if I am physically unable to enter my polling place?

If you need help voting due to a disability, you may bring a person of your choice to assist you in the voting process. The election officials at your polling place will ask you to complete and sign a Declaration of Need of Assistance.

Or, you can vote by mail ballot. Mail ballots must be requested by April 16 and returned no later than 8 p.m. on April 23. 

How do I vote by mail?

You can apply for a mail ballot online, in person at a county elections office, or through the mail. Applications must be received by 5 p.m. April 16.

You can apply for a one-time mail ballot or request to be added to the annual mail ballot list, which means you’ll get an application each year. You must submit this application for every year you wish to vote by mail.

After following all the instructions and properly filling out your mail ballot, you can return it by mail, deliver it in person to your county election office, or put it in a secure drop box. Not all counties have drop boxes. The Pennsylvania Department of State says voters should look on their county’s website to find an official list of locations.

Mail ballots must be received by 8 p.m. April 23.

Do I need to show ID?

When voting at a polling place for the first time, you must show proof of identification. Forms of identification include a PA driver’s license, passport, student ID, US Armed Forces ID, or an employee ID.

You do not need to show ID after that to vote at your polling place.

Which federal races will I be voting on? 

Here are the major races:

– President – Joe Biden (Democrat) and Donald Trump (Republican)

– US Senate – Bob Casey (Democrat) and David McCormick (Republican)

– US House – The representatives in the state’s 17 congressional districts are all up for reelection. Don’t know which district you’re in? Click here to find out.

Which state races will I be voting on?

It depends where you live. Find which district you live in here. Then, go here to see which state Senate and House candidates are on the ballot in your district and to find out results.

What other races am I voting on?

Some of the other races on the ballot this year are:

Attorney General

– Democrats:

Keir Bradford-Grey, Philly’s former chief public defender

Eugene DePasquale, former state auditor general and U.S. House candidate

Joe Khan, former Bucks County solicitor and Philadelphia D.A. candidate

Jared Solomon, Northeast Philadelphia state representative

Jack Stollsteimer, Delaware County district attorney

– Republicans:

Craig Williams, state rep. for the 160th district (Chester and Delaware counties)

Dave Sunday, York County district attorney

State Treasurer

– Democrats:

Ryan Bizzarro, state representative

Erin McClelland, former addiction program director

– Republicans:

Stacy Garrity (incumbent)

Auditor General

– Democrats:

Malcolm Kenyatta, state representative

Mark Pinsley, Lehigh County controller

– Republicans:

Timothy DeFoor (incumbent)