Welcome to the latest edition of Voices of Reason where we’ll recap exclusive news and data featured in our most recent podcast.
This segment dives into PA's 2024 election with two top pollsters, Chris Borick of Muhlenberg College and Berwood Yost of F&M, unpacking the numbers, trends, and surprises that shaped the outcome. From voter turnout to shifting coalitions, you don't want to miss the driving factors behind PA's 2024 decision.
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Muhlenberg Pollster Chris Borick illustrated the "degrees of magnitude" for 2024 voter issues. "Reproductive rights is a top tier issue, so is border security. But there were three tier levels up before you got to inflation and the economy – and Trump wins overwhelmingly on that." [Watch]
F&M Pollster Berwood Yost explained why new coalitions might not stick for the next election. "I think we're just in a competitive environment where either side might win because the divisions are so narrow." [Watch]
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Public Opinion
- Post-election, Americans are experiencing a range of emotions: 27% report feeling worried, 15% hopeful, 12% relieved, and another 12% indifferent. [IPSOS]
- Only 36 statewide recounts have occurred between 2000 and 2023. Of those, just three have resulted in a reversal of the original results. [Democracy Docket]
Voter Issues
- The top issues for Pennsylvania voters this cycle were the economy at 31%, the state of democracy at 31%, abortion at 15%, and immigration at 13%. [Washington Post]
- Only 13% of PA voters decided who to vote for the month of the election. [Washington Post]
Elections
- The McCormick vs. Casey Senate race was among the most expensive federal elections this cycle with over $130.5 million being spent by PACs supporting McCormick. [WHYY]
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Explained: Casey trailed Harris an abnormal amount in Philly + it's suburbs
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Fact-checkers often play umpire but rarely call it fair. One side’s truths are labeled “needs more context,” while the other’s whoppers get a pass. That’s why we launched FactCheckPA: to sort fact from fiction, no matter the source. Follow us for breakdowns of claims from Pennsylvania politicians, interest groups, and media—and send us tips on what to check.
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The Voices of Reason podcast has covered the most important issues in Pennsylvania politics – from education funding to trust in elections. Secretary of the Commonwealth Al Schmidt, PA Treasurer Stacy Garrity, and House Appropriations Chairman Jordan Harris are just a few of many influential guests who have joined us for exclusive interviews and roundtable discussions.
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