PRESS RELEASE: Governor Mark Schweiker & Congressman Lou Barletta Praise Strength of U.S. Election System, Hard Work of State Election Workers

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 6, 2024

Harrisburg, Pa. — Former Governor Mark Schweiker and former Congressman Lou Barletta, Co-Chairs of RightCount Pennsylvania, issued a statement today recognizing the strength, integrity, and dedication demonstrated throughout Commonwealth’s election process. Amid record-breaking voter turnout, instances of misinformation and reports of bomb threats, election workers handled voters, managed lines, and continue to report results efficiently, transparently and accurately.

“Pennsylvania’s election workers have been the backbone of our democracy. Their tireless commitment to processing votes and maintaining order in the midst of record turnout has ensured a fair, accurate, and smoothly conducted election. Violence and threats must never be tolerated. The work and response of our professional and dedicated election workers, under the guidance of Secretary of the Commonwealth Al Schmidt, along with the advocacy of our statewide leadership committee, should give every Pennsylvanian a renewed confidence in the strength and reliability of our election system.”

The co-chairs continued by urging all Americans to come together in the wake of this closely contested election, acknowledging that the challenges our nation faces are best met with resilience and cooperation. “Now that the election is over, it is the time to set aside differences and address the pressing challenges that confront America. The voters have spoken, and we must now get to work on building a stronger, safer and more prosperous nation.”

Finally, the two former elected leaders emphasize that RightCount will continue its mission of building public trust in Pennsylvania’s election process. “In an election season as closely watched and competitive as this one, we recognize that not all our fellow Pennsylvanians will be pleased with the outcome. RightCount will remain committed to enhancing public confidence in our election process, ensuring that every voter can trust their voice has been heard, and their vote has counted.”

RightCount conducted survey research and educated citizens across Pennsylvania on election integrity issues. In addition to producing ads featuring trusted messengers and voting safeguards, the 501(c)(3) organization successfully recruited and launched a leadership advisory committee and garnered statewide and national news media coverage to build public confidence in the voting process and election outcomes.

Along with former Governor Schweiker and former Congressman Barletta, RightCount’s Leadership Advisory Committee is comprised of civic leaders from across Pennsylvania, including U.S. Navy Veteran Toni Chase, Chief Compliance Officer Bob Hackenberg, Philadelphia Fire Department Lieutenant Brian Haughton, Realtor Liz Cavanaugh, Director of Operational Excellence Christina Lackzo, small business owner Selena Ling, Attorney Jim Mulligan and small business advocate Gina Guydam.

For more on RightCount’s work in Pennsylvania, visit www.rightcount.org/pennsylvania.

Media Contact: Vince Galko, vgalko@mercuryllc.com.

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