The Pennsylvania elections on November 4 have significant implications, particularly concerning the state Supreme Court. Voters will decide on the retention of three Democratic justices, while also participating in key municipal races in major cities.
Supreme Court Retention Elections
On the ballot are Justices Christine Donohue, Kevin Dougherty, and David Wecht, who are seeking new 10-year terms. Donohue is set to retire in 2027 due to reaching the mandatory age limit of 75.
This election year, party politics have intensified the retention campaign. Currently, Democrats hold a 5-2 majority on the court. However, Republican efforts are underway to replace the three justices. If voters choose not to retain them, Governor Josh Shapiro could appoint temporary replacements, subject to confirmation by the Republican-controlled state Senate.
Municipal Elections
In Pittsburgh, the mayoral race features Democratic Allegheny County Controller Corey O’Connor against Republican Tony Moreno. O’Connor previously served on the city council and is the son of the late Mayor Bob O’Connor. Moreno, a former police officer, was the Republican nominee in 2021, losing to incumbent Ed Gainey.
In Philadelphia, the district attorney race is between Democrat Larry Krasner, seeking a third term, and former Municipal Court Judge Pat Dugan, who is now running as a Republican after switching parties. Krasner won the May primary, defeating Dugan, who had resigned from his position to pursue this opportunity.
Voting Landscape
As of early October, Pennsylvania had approximately 3.8 million registered Democrats and 3.6 million Republicans. In Allegheny County, Democrats made up 55% of the 912,000 registered voters, while 72% of registered voters in Philadelphia were Democrats.
- 2021 Pittsburgh mayoral election: 71% of the vote went to Gainey, with around 71,000 total votes cast.
- 2021 Philadelphia municipal election: Krasner received 72% of the vote, with about 230,000 participating.
- 2023 Supreme Court election: Approximately 3.1 million votes cast, accounting for 36% of registered voters.
Voting and Turnout Statistics
As of last week, over 571,000 absentee ballots had been cast statewide, primarily from Democrats. In Pittsburgh, more than 15,000 early votes were submitted, again showing a significant Democratic turnout.
Polls for the election will close at 8 p.m. ET, and results will be reported progressively. Historically, vote counting in Pennsylvania can rapidly yield nearly complete results within a day.
What’s Next?
The outcome of these elections could reshape Pennsylvania’s legal landscape and influence local governance in key cities. As preparations for the 2026 midterm elections begin right after this election, engagement in this November 4 election remains critical for voters across the state.
