Article Summary –
The 2024 elections in Pennsylvania will culminate on November 5, with significant races including the presidential, congressional, and state legislative contests, while statewide and local primaries are set for May 20, 2025, leading to a general election on November 4, 2025. The Pennsylvania Supreme Court, currently with a 5-2 Democratic majority, faces potential changes as three Democratic justices’ terms expire, and their retention or replacement could impact decisions on key issues like abortion rights and climate protection. Other important 2025 races include retention votes for judges in intermediate appellate courts and local elections for positions such as the mayors of Pittsburgh and Harrisburg, as well as Philadelphia’s controller and district attorney.
The 2024 presidential, congressional, and Pennsylvania legislative races conclude on Election Day, Nov. 5. Additional significant elections impacting Pennsylvania’s future occur shortly after.
On May 20, Pennsylvania conducts primaries for statewide and local offices. Winners will compete in the general election on Nov. 4.
Key 2025 races include the following:
Pennsylvania Supreme Court
Justice Daniel McCaffery‘s 2023 election granted Democrats a 5-2 majority on the Pennsylvania Supreme Court. This court has restored Equal Rights Amendment protections and upheld gun laws. Upcoming cases will shape abortion rights, democracy, and climate efforts.
The majority could revert to Republicans, with three seats contested. Democratic Justices Christine Donohue, Kevin Dougherty, and David Wecht face retention votes. If any do not run or are not retained, those seats open for 2027 elections.
Gov. Josh Shapiro can appoint temporary replacements, subject to approval by a two-thirds GOP-controlled state Senate.
Appeals and Circuit Courts
Pennsylvania’s two intermediate courts handle appeals: The Commonwealth Court for state and local government cases and the Superior Court for criminal and civil appeals.
Commonwealth Court Judge Michael Wojcik and Superior Court Judge Alice Dubow, both Democrats, face retention votes in November 2025.
Voters will also decide on the retention of other judges and fill any vacancies.
Local Governments
Several localities will elect leaders.
Democratic Pittsburgh Mayor Ed Gainey is seeking a second term in 2025, with other candidates considering joining the race.
In Harrisburg, Democratic Mayor Wanda Williams has not yet declared her reelection plans.
Philadelphia will not elect a mayor or city council until 2027 but will vote for its controller and district attorney.
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