HARRISBURG – A bill to move the date of Pennsylvania’s 2024 primary election up by five weeks to March 19 was approved today in the Senate by a bipartisan vote of 45-2, according to Sen. Dave Argall (R-29), the prime sponsor of the bill.
“As the fifth largest state in the country, we should have a stronger role in selecting the candidates for President of the United States,” said Argall. “In most Presidential primary elections, the outcome is largely decided before our voters have a chance to make their voice heard at the polls.”
Under existing law, Pennsylvania’s 2024 primary election would take place on April 23. Under Senate Bill 224, the 2024 primary election would be moved up by five weeks.
The current primary date also conflicts with Passover, which would effectively disenfranchise many Jewish people due to traditional Jewish law prohibiting writing, driving, or the use of electricity on the holiday.
The bill now heads to the House of Representatives for its consideration.
CONTACT: Jim Brugger, 717-787-2637