DV Journal

In a 4-3 vote, the Pennsylvania Supreme Court Wednesday released a decision to adopt a new 17-district Congressional map-dubbed the “Carter Map” developed by a special master and supported by Democrats.

Because so many people have left the state as determined by the 2020 Census, Pennsylvania lost one Congressional seat.

Pennsylvania Republicans, who control the legislature, are unhappy with the decision.

“This is not about where lines are drawn or where they could have been drawn. The court has now confirmed once and for all they do not abide by the state and federal constitutions,” said Speaker of the House Bryan Cutler (R-Lancaster) and House Majority Leader Kerry Benninghoff (R-Centre/Mifflin) in a statement.

“Only the map submitted by House and Senate Republicans followed all constitutional guidelines, went through a deliberative legislative process, and was endorsed by a judicial body.

“The process for creating district lines is clearly defined, and even if the governor refused to follow the process, it does not allow the courts to just pick and choose when or when not to follow the law. Sadly, candidates and voters must now submit to a unilateral court that sees itself above every person in our commonwealth.”

GOP strategist Charlie O’Neill said that, while the breakdown of the seats may appear relatively balanced, the partisan bias is clear. “The Congressional map approved by the PA Supreme Court once again shows the high court still puts its partisan leanings before objectivity in selecting a map proposed by Democrats. While Democrats will likely point out eight safe Republican seats, six Democrat seats, and three toss-ups from the map, two Republican districts have been drawn together. Democrats Susan Wild in the Lehigh Valley and Matt Cartwright in Northeast Pennsylvania will face tough races but still enjoy the power of incumbency.

“Scott Perry will once again be in a tight race as he was in 2018 and 2020. All Southeast Democrats will remain secure, with Brian Fitzpatrick still maintaining a mostly Bucks County seat.

“The 17th congressional district, being vacated by Conor Lamb, still looks like a Democrat hold, but with an open contest, it could be close. There are pick-up opportunities for both Republicans and Democrats in this map, so in addition to high profile governor and U.S. Senate maps, look for a wave of spending on close Congressional Districts as well.”

Charlotte Valyo, chair of the Chester County Democratic Committee, said, “The Carter Map approved by the Pennsylvania Supreme Court today upholds the district lines that will keep Chester County entirely within the 6th Congressional District. This is a victory for those who oppose the gerrymandering of districts in order to reduce the number of competitive districts or protect the candidates of one party over another.

“Chester County is fortunate to be represented by Congresswoman Chrissy Houlahan, who has served all the residents of Chester County regardless of party affiliation. We look forward to her re-election and her leadership in the years to come,” said Valyo.

“I don’t know enough yet about the map and all the congressional districts to know if it’s good or bad, however, I am disappointed that Montgomery County has been completely gerrymandered again to the disadvantage of the Montgomery County residents,” said Joe Foster, chair of the Montgomery County Democrats.

Elizabeth Preate Havey, chair of the Montgomery County Republican Committee, said, “As expected, the deeply partisan Pennsylvania Supreme Court chose the Democrat –proposed map which got rid of a solidly Republican seat and made Democrat Conor Lamb’s seat easier for a Democrat to win. Despite the partisan choice, Republicans are prepared to fight hard to win this November!”

Lamb is making a bid for the U.S. Senate seat being vacated by Sen. Pat Toomey (R-Pa.).

“Today’s decision of the Pennsylvania Supreme Court to further alter the petition process by ordering congressional and statewide candidates to abruptly start their nomination petitions this Friday with less time to complete them (18 days rather than 21 days) is unfair and unjust,” said Jen “GV” Gilliland Vanasdale, attorney for Butler County state House map challengers and Republican candidate for lieutenant governor.

“At the same time, the court also suspended petitions for all state legislative candidates. This adds more confusion and benefits incumbent, establishment, big money or bought candidates over other candidates working for change. We have a corrupt, partisan state and it just got worse.”

Democrat Justice Debra Todd joined the two Republican justices, Sallie Updike Mundy and Kevin Brobson in dissent.

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A Downingtown Area School Board election dispute may determine the standing of Pennsylvania’s law regarding mail-in ballot errors.

At issue is whether election officials should follow the letter of the law or allow some leeway in counting problematic mail-in votes. Sam Stretton, a lawyer for Area 4 Democrat candidate Rebecca Britton told Delaware Valley Journal he is appealing a divided Commonwealth Court ruling to the state Supreme Court.

“It’s a very important issue,” said Stretton. And it not only affects his client, but will clarify election law statewide. “In election law we lean toward a liberal interpretation to protect the right to vote. There’s no evidence of fraud.”

Not so fast, says Michael Taylor, who represents Republican candidate Margie Miller, who will be the winner without the six disputed ballots.

Taylor said that the Commonwealth Court panel has correctly “affirmed the decision of the Chester County Board of Elections to disqualify the six ballots.”

While a recent ruling had three different opinions, a majority of the judges ruled the ballots should be thrown out, he said.

“Our elections are the bedrock of our republic and must be governed by the rule of law,” said Taylor. “Every vote that is legally cast should be counted. That is what was done in this school board race, and Margie Miller is the new director to the Downingtown School Board. Margie has won the contest at the Board of Elections, the Court of Common Pleas, and now, the Commonwealth Court. However, we have sadly heard that Rebecca Britton will now ask the Pennsylvania Supreme Court to overturn the election.

“Ms. Britton’s decision to continue with these legal challenges does a disservice to the citizens of Region 4,” said Taylor. “DASD is in the process of deciding many major issues. Besides dealing with the surge in COVID, the school district is deciding whether to build a new school or refurbish others. Region 4 is not at the discussions or able to cast a vote while Ms. Britton continues with these legal fights. The Miller campaign is weighing its options.”

Miller said, “With only four votes separating my opponent and myself, this has been quite a journey and an education. I am a teacher, not a politician. My intention upon running was to be an advocate for our children and a voice for the residents of region 4. At this moment, there is no voice nor representation for region 4. With the election uncertified and being appealed at the State level, my constituents are left with no vote or say in any matters or plans pertaining to DASD. It is a case of taxation without representation. Although I receive correspondence and calls from constituents, I have to answer as Director-Elect. I encourage them to write to all board members as I am unable to speak for them at this time.

“I enjoy connecting and emailing with the people of Downingtown. Th1ey are very candid, concerned, and truly want what is best for our community,” she said. “They also thank me profusely for responding to them – they appreciate knowing that they are heard. The people of region 4 have spoken – I won in November, I won at the county level, and I won in Commonwealth Court. Patience is my mantra.

“I cannot wait to serve the residents of region 4,” Miller added. “I respect and thank the judges who have given their expertise and verdicts thus far. I respect and thank all of my many supporters who are eager to witness my swearing-in. I am confident this will come to fruition in a prompt manner.”

Britton declined to comment.

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