In a social media post on Thursday, the Philadelphia District Attorney Larry Krasner called Bob Bradychairman of the Philadelphia Democratic Party, to resign from office.

Krasner, an established progressive, said the party must make changes to make November what he called a “beautiful month.”

“The Democratic Party in Philadelphia has spent far too long fighting progressives, fighting against its future, than it has spent fighting Republicans, fighting fascists, fighting Donald Trump,” said Krasner, who was re-elected to a third term last November.

“So we find ourselves in a situation where we have to unite and fight our common enemy,” he continued. “If we don’t do this, November could be very, very, very obscure for the future of this country.

“I am asking you, Mr. President, to have the wisdom of your friend Joe Biden it was about putting outsiders ahead of insiders and presenting the future before the past. And understand that after 40 years as president of this party, we need recent leadership that will look to the future, not reject it. Those who will fight together with the Working Families Party, with the liberals, with the progressives, will fight together in a gigantic tent against the other side.

“And if we all do that, November will indeed be a beautiful month. And this country will have a beautiful future. Mr. President, the time has come, and I say this with respect, to step down.”

Brady, who also serves as chairman of the Democratic state delegation in Philadelphia, previously served in the U.S. House of Representatives for more than 20 years. Other positions include commissioner of the Pennsylvania Turnpike, deputy mayor of Philadelphia under Dr. Wilson Goodeand Sergeant-at-Arms of the Philadelphia City Council.

Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro did not comment on Krasner’s statement.

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Good morning! Goodbye April!

PA Policy Playbook Headlines. US Supreme Court limits utilize of race in congressional district map changes, Dilution of Voting Rights Act. Races to watch in the AP Democratic primary. Private water company vs. Chester. Public vs. Private PIAA Playoffs?

Your morning, pick me up. Bad luck. Social distortion

Weather in Pennsylvania
Ebensburg | Mostly dull, with a chance of rain, 50
Marietta | Partly sunlit, 63
Carbondale | Cloudy, with a chance of rain, 60

Sports PA
Pirates (16-16) | Saint Louis 4-5 | Thu vs. St. Louis
Phillies (10-19) | San Francisco ppd | Wednesday – San Francisco (2)
Sixes (2-3) | Thu vs. Boston
Leaflets (4-2) | Philadelphia 1-0 (OT) | Next vs. Karolina
Penguins (2-4) | Philadelphia 0-1 (OT)

What we hear. Bob Brooks implements the “Extinguish the Fire” program as part of its PA-07 campaign.

Tips. PoliticsPA is Pennsylvania’s leading source of unbiased political news and analysis. Tips and press releases can be submitted [email protected].

PoliticsPA Guide was developed by Steve Ulrich. To read in your browser click here.

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The most essential story

1. U.S. Supreme Court Limits Use of Race in Congressional District Map Changes, Dilution of Voting Rights Act

“On Wednesday, the Supreme Court issued an opinion sharply weakening much of the federal Voting Rights Act.

Opinion on Louisiana v. Callaiscan echo for decades. The Court’s conservative majority significantly confined the consideration of race in drawing legislative maps.

So far, Art. Section 2 of the Voting Rights Act prohibits states from using maps that dilute the voting power of minority citizens. Republicans could ultimately directly secure up to 19 seats in the House of Representatives across the country thanks to the Supreme Court’s decision.” | PolitykaPA

Elsewhere

Pennsylvania lawmakers and candidates respond to SCOTUS voting rights decision. “An extremely complex issue with extremely important ramifications on the nationwide congressional map – potentially in 2026, but definitely in 2028, 2030 and 2032. How do Pennsylvania lawmakers and candidates respond to this decision?” | PoliticsPA

What the Weakened Voting Rights Act means in America today. “The latest ruling affects a more multiracial and mobile country that is nothing like it was in 1965, raising new questions about how voting protections apply to a rapidly expanding electorate.” | Axles

AP Republicans largely support the Iran war or remain noiseless ahead of the deadline for Congress to assert its authority. “Only one of Pennsylvania’s 11 Republican congressional lawmakers suggested that President Donald Trump would break the law if he continued the war without consent.” | Questioner from Philadelphia

Where Garrity and Shapiro advocate for broadband, federal cuts and other key rural issues. “While both of Pennsylvania’s major party gubernatorial candidates are prioritizing helping rural communities, their approaches to some major issues – such as dealing with broadband installation and cuts to federal programs – could lead to significantly different outcomes for residents of more remote areas of the state.” | PA reflector

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Country

2. Here are the races to watch in the Pennsylvania Democratic primary

“This election year will usher in a race for Governor of Pennsylvania and battles for several Commonwealth Congressional seats that could upset the balance of power in the U.S. House of Representatives.

The drama is unfolding primarily on the Democrats’ side, as the party selects candidates to replace the outgoing congressman and face defenseless GOP representatives.” | USA Today Network

Elsewhere

PA-01: Bob Harvie said he doesn’t support open primary schools. Fitzpatrick calls it “an insult to independent voters.” “Tensions had already begun to simmer in Pennsylvania’s 1st Congressional District when U.S. Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick threw a jab at his likely Democratic challenger on Tuesday night.” | Questioner from Philadelphia

PA-03: Sans Stanford, Dems Rabb and Street meet for Wednesday’s PA-3 debate. “Wednesday’s televised debate between the Democratic candidates in the PA-3 primary made headlines before it even began. The hour-long debate, hosted on WHYY’s Studio 2, was missing one key candidate: Al Stanford.” | City and state

PA-7 Congressional Candidate Urges Judge to Dismiss Lawsuit Over Debt Over $162,000. “The legal battle between Lehigh Valley congressional candidate Bob Brooks and his former mother-in-law is likely to drag on beyond the May primary, after Wednesday’s hearing sparked legal battles this summer.” | LehighValley News

Pennsylvania House passes bills that would enable digital driver’s licenses and vehicle registrations. “Pennsylvania is one step closer to enabling digital driver licensing and vehicle registration after the state House passed bills this week approving the use of the technology.” | CBS Philadelphia

Advocates push for skill gaming tax as lottery losses hit programs for PA seniors. “Cuts to senior programs — like those announced earlier this month in Allegheny County — will get worse unless state lawmakers take action to replace declining Pennsylvania lottery revenues, said Rebecca May-Cole, executive director of the Pennsylvania Association of Regional Agencies for Aging.” | WESA

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Around the Republic of Poland

3. From public to private? The future of the Pennsylvania reservoir remains unclear

“Katarzyna Miller has a message for private investors interested in purchasing the Octoraro tank: It is not for sale.

“It’s not in the interest of our ratepayers,” said Miller, who heads the anti-privatization campaign for the Chester Water Authority (CWA), which owns the 520-acre reservoir in southeastern Pennsylvania. But this peaceful neighborhood has turned into a legal battleground over the past decade, pitting CWA and its ratepayers against a private water company and a cash-strapped town: Chester, Pennsylvania.’ | Gulf Journal

Elsewhere

Cellphone ban in Pennsylvania schools supported, with many exceptions. “On Tuesday, a House committee moved one step closer to eliminating major distractions in schools by passing a bill that — with many exceptions — would prohibit students from using cell phones during the school day.” | Central Square

Innamorato: We used the NFL draft to fund Pittsburgh’s future. “Last week’s National Football League (NFL) draft in Pittsburgh and the surrounding festivities were a record success, drawing more than 800,000 fans to the event, but Allegheny County Executive Sara Innamorato wants to focus on the project’s lasting impact on the local community.” | Key

York hired numerous consultants, many without City Council oversight. “York Mayor Sandie Walker has hired at least eight consultants since taking office, signing a number of contracts just below the reporting threshold that would require City Council scrutiny.” | York daily record

A supervisor calls police to a building in Muncy Township. “State troopers arrived last night after a prematurely adjourned meeting in Muncy Township, with participants wondering whether their right to peacefully assemble had been violated.” | North-CentralPA

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Editorial

4. What do you think about it?

• Voters may now be disenfranchised | Adam Serwer
• The Supreme Court’s ruling strengthens the position of minorities. Now Democrats will have to get votes | Alice Nieves
• Five former PA governors show current leaders how a bipartisan approach should work | John Baer
• SEPTA’s decision to focus on housing, not parking, is a victory for southeastern Pennsylvania | Questioner from Philadelphia
• Let’s do it again, Pittsburgh | Pittsburgh Postal Newspaper
• Was the NFL draft a failed fundraiser or a promotional opportunity? | Grandstand overview
• Report on America from the Townie Bar | David Mills
• While Trump Builds Ballrooms, Pennsylvania Families Lose Health Care and Food Assistance | Senator Jay Costa
• Setting a Record on Dauphin County’s Democratic Endorsement Process | Kelly D.Summerford
• The Pennsylvania Human Rights Commission Can’t ‘Get It Done’ | Wide + Freedom
• We know how to stop speeding here, so why not everywhere? | Rep. Tarik Khan

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1 item

5. The House of Representatives passes a bill authorizing the PIAA to split public and private competitions

“The state House advanced legislation Wednesday that would allow the PIAA to separate public and private schools into different postseason playoff systems.

The passage of House Bill 41 allows the PIAA, the governing body for Pennsylvania high school athletics, to separate border and non-border schools for postseason play.

Border schools are public schools that serve students who live in a specific, designated geographic area. Foreign schools, which include private, Catholic and charter schools, have no geographical restrictions and can attract students from anywhere.’ | PennLive

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Thank you for starting your day with us.
Thank you, April. It was fun. See you tomorrow.

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Good morning! Let’s be friends. Sign up for the PoliticsPA Guide.

Headlines. Dems lead by six points in battleground districts. State Senate passes bill to protect fairness in women’s sports. A power struggle is rattling Democratic leaders in Dauphin County ahead of the primary election. Pittsburgh, you’re in the know.

Your morning, pick me up. Dear rollercoaster. Ohio players

Weather in Pennsylvania
Pittsburg | Mostly clear, 78
State Higher School | Sunny, 76
Scranton | Sunny, 70

Sports PA
Phillies (8-16) | Young 2-7 | Wednesday at the Chicago Cubs
Pirates (14-10) | Texas 8-4 | Wednesday in Texas
Sixes (1-1) | Friday vs. Boston
Leaflets (3-0) | Pittsburgh 5-2 | Saturday vs. Pittsburgh
Penguins (0-3) | Philadelphia 2-5 | I was based in Philadelphia
Union (1-1-7) | Toronto 3-3 | Sat versus Columbus

What we hear. The House Majority PAC, the Democrats’ super PAC, is committing $272 million to initial TV and digital programming bookings, including $20 million for Pennsylvania bookings. The Congressional Leadership Fund, a super PAC affiliated with Speaker Mike Johnson, has set aside more than $153 million in the first wave of fall ad buys. For example, in PA-10, HMP will contribute $3.474 million, while CLF will contribute $2.9 million.

Tips. PoliticsPA is Pennsylvania’s leading source of unbiased political news and analysis. Tips and press releases can be submitted [email protected].

PoliticsPA Guide was developed by Steve Ulrich. To read in your browser click here.

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The most essential story

1. Democrats lead by six points in battleground districts in up-to-date CPR poll

“For Republican candidates running in competitive House districts, the Cook Political Report’s Battleground District project is a flashing red warning delicate for the fall.

In an exclusive survey of districts rated Toss Up, Lean Republican or Lean Democrat by The Cook Political Report – districts that President Donald Trump won by an average of two points in 2024 — Democrats have a six-point advantage in overall congressional votes, 50% to 44%.

If this advantage continued in November, any district where Trump had an advantage of 10 points or less could be in significant danger of falling to Democrats.’ | Cook Political Report

Elsewhere

What is Trump’s latest approval rating? Here’s what the polls say about the U.S. and Pennsylvania. “What do Americans think of President Donald Trump’s performance today? Do Pennsylvanians agree with Trump’s national job approval rating? Trump’s overall presidential approval rating has been declining since the first historic government shutdown in October. It has now dropped to its lowest level this term since the start of the Iran war. ” | USA Today Network

Future of voter ID bill unclear in Senate. “Five weeks ago, Senate Republicans said they were preparing for a longer fight by opening debate on their marquee overhaul bill. Now they have quietly set aside the so-called SAVE America Act.” | Roll call

PA-7 Democratic Candidates Discuss DOGE Cuts and Divisions in Congress. “Lehigh Valley Public Media asked former federal prosecutor Ryan Crosswell, former Northampton County Executive Lamont McClure and energy engineer Carol Obando-Derstine about governing in an era of division and their thoughts on the shrinking federal government workforce.” | LehighValley News

Trump, Shapiro and McCormick applaud decision to keep PA’s two coal plants operating. “The Keystone and Conemaugh plants were previously scheduled to cease operations on December 31, 2028. However, the consent decree allowed the plants to continue operating through 2032 with upgraded wastewater treatment equipment at both plants.” | Central Square

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Country

2. The state Senate passes a bill to protect fairness in women’s sports

“By a 30-17 vote, the Pennsylvania Senate passed SB 1293, which provides for the express designation of athletic activities at public institutions of higher education and public schools as male, female, or coeducational and the creation of a cause of action for damages incurred as a result of the designation.

The bill, sponsored by Senator Judy Wardwould require public schools and colleges to designate sports teams as male, female or coeducational. Regulations state that only biological women can join women’s teams. The bill would also enable students to take legal action if they suffer harm as a result of violating this rule.” | PolitykaPA

Elsewhere

Pennsylvania unions know that money talks. “The Commonwealth Foundation released a study of the union and government PAC money that flowed to politicians in Pennsylvania in 2025. As you might guess: it’s a lot.” | Wide + Freedom

Your complete guide for lieutenant governor candidates. “In this year’s lieutenant governor primary, incumbent Democrat Austin Davis is running unopposed, while party-endorsed Republican, attorney Jason Richey, faces a far-sighted challenger in former UPS executive John Ventre.” | PA reflector

Shapiro joins Patriots owner Kraft to call for a common fight against bigotry. “It was undoubtedly a bold choice: to host an event in Pittsburgh dedicated to overcoming painful differences, and then to organize owner of the New England Patriots team participate. But if you succeed, can world peace be left far behind?” | WESA

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Around the Republic of Poland

3. Power struggles shake Dauphin County Democratic leaders ahead of primary election

“Dauphin County Democrats are winning the battle to turn the county blue and end decades of Republican dominance.

But will they be able to survive fighting each other?” | PennLive

Elsewhere

Can Allegheny County Ban ICE from Wearing Masks? It’s complicated. “The action failed on Wednesday when a California appeals court judge ruled that forcing federal agents to reveal themselves was probably unconstitutional.” | Pittsburgh Postal Newspaper

Two Pennsylvania lawmakers are defying political norms by building friendship, faith and bipartisan results. “State Reps. Jared Solomon, a Democrat from Philadelphia, and Jesse Topper, a Republican from Bedford and Fulton counties, share how they have built true friendship across political, geographic and cultural boundaries while ensuring bipartisan progress in Harrisburg.” | PR message

Do juvenile people follow politics closely? “New research from the University of Pennsylvania shows that “less than a quarter of Americans under 30 say they follow U.S. politics closely.” | Erie News Now

Cognetti offers a positive outlook in his 2026 State of the City address. “Mayor Paige Cognetti, during her annual State of the City address, described a Scranton that is less analog and safer in part because of technology and citizen reassurances.” | WVIA

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Editorial

4. What do you think about it?

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1 item

5.Pittsburgh. You’re on the clock

“It’s been a long, long pre-game, but we’re getting closer to the start of the NFL draft.

Thousands of people will roar, sigh or groan at the stadium and at events throughout the region. We’ve got a list of them, ranging from high-priced VIPs with former and current Steelers to more low-key and budget-friendly options.

For those coming to town, we have guides to bars, breweries, restaurants and attractions near the stadium, as well as other fun things like special concerts at two up-to-date plazas in Pittsburgh. | Pittsburgh Postal Newspaper

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I appreciate you starting your day with us.
“On your first choice…” See you tomorrow to discuss.

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The latest episode of the PoliticsPA podcast, Voices of Reason, takes a look at one of the hottest congressional races in the country – the 7th Congressional District in the Lehigh Valley.

Four candidates are fighting for the nod towards the incumbent Republican Ryan Mackenzie autumn – Bob Brookspresident of the Pennsylvania Professional Firefighters; Ryan Crosswellformer Justice Department prosecutor; Carol Obando-Derstineformer employee Senator Bob Casey; AND Lamont McClureformer Northampton County Executive.

PoliticsPA Steve Ulrich talks to Chris Borickprofessor of political science at Muhlenberg College and Tom Shortell Lehigh Valley News about the candidates – their strengths and weaknesses. They discuss the money flowing into the region and predict what percentage of votes they will get on May 19.

To receive more Pennsylvania political news every weekday morning, sign up for the PoliticsPA Playbook at PoliticsPA.com

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Finding that Pennsylvania’s constitution “guarantees the fundamental right to reproductive autonomy,” the Pennsylvania Commonwealth Court on Monday ruled by a 4-3 majority that the state’s ban on public funding of abortion is unconstitutional.

The decision will likely be the basis for an appeal to the state’s highest court.

Writing for the majority Judge Mateusz Wilk found that the state was violating the Equal Rights Amendment (ERA) and the promise of equal protection. The majority opinion was against it that the state cannot select and finance primary health care based on gender needs.

“We conclude that the coverage exclusion violates the Equal Rights Amendment in Article I, Section 28 of the Pennsylvania Constitution. We further conclude that Article I of the Pennsylvania Constitution guarantees the fundamental right to reproductive autonomy, that the coverage exclusion does not operate neutrally with respect to that right and is not properly justified in this case, and therefore the coverage exclusion violates the equal protection guarantee of Article I, Section 26 of the Pennsylvania Constitution.”

In 1982, Pennsylvania adopted the so-called Abortion Control Actwhich set a tough line: state tax dollars (Medicaid) cannot pay for abortions. For more than forty years, a low-income woman in the commonwealth could only get insurance if she was a victim of rape or incest or to save her mother’s life

In 1985, the state Supreme Court upheld the ban, arguing that the government had the right to encourage childbirth rather than abortion. For a generation of Pennsylvanians, the law was an established reality.

In early 2024, the Pennsylvania Supreme Court issued a landmark ruling in the case Allegheny Reproductive Health Center v. Pennsylvania Department of Human Services. While it didn’t strike down the law outright, it did something equally powerful: The Court ruled that the state’s ERA meant that any law that treated men and women differently — including restrictions on abortion — must be subjected to “strict legal scrutiny” at the highest level.

After Monday’s decision, the state’s Medicaid program is now legally required to treat abortion like any other medical procedure.

Reactions to the Court’s findings were swift.

“I have long opposed this unconstitutional ban and did not defend it as governor because a woman’s access to reproductive care should never be determined by her income,” she said. Governor Josh Shapiro on social media.

“By declaring a constitutionally broad ‘right to reproductive autonomy’ and mandating taxpayer-funded abortion through Medicaid, the court overstepped its authority, ignored the plain text of our state constitution, and forced millions of Pennsylvanians who believe that life begins at conception to subsidize the killing of unborn children,” she said. Michael Geerpresident of the PA Family Institute in a statement. “This is judicial activism at its worst, imposing on the bench what the people and their elected representatives have repeatedly refused to do.”

Likely Republican candidate for governor Stacy Garrity he called the decision “immoral.”

“The Pennsylvania Commonwealth Court’s decision to force our taxes to pay for abortions is not only wrong, it is immoral,” the state treasurer said in a statement. “It is also deeply disturbing that Gov. Josh Shapiro’s administration has withdrawn itself as a respondent in this case.

“The Pennsylvania Abortion Control Act was passed with bipartisan support and signed into law by a Democratic governor. Today’s ruling is a direct violation of the Hyde Amendment and federal law.”

“We cannot allow four activist judges to have the final say on how our tax dollars are spent. I stand with all Pennsylvanians who value life and liberty and have the courage to stand up and fight for it.”

“Elections have consequences. This heartless ruling must spur action before November 3 and the elections that follow.”

Democratic lawmakers praised the ruling.

“Today’s Commonwealth Court ruling recognizing reproductive autonomy as a fundamental constitutional right is a huge victory for every woman, especially those who rely on Medicaid to get the care they need,” she said Senate Minority Leader Jay Costa (D-Allegheny). “The Pennsylvania Senate Democratic Caucus has long held that a woman’s decision about whether, when, and how to raise a family is a fundamental right, and we are deeply grateful that today’s decision by the Commonwealth Court brings Pennsylvania into line with this key value. While much remains to be debated and legislated, today is a day of celebration as we expand access to care for thousands of women and families in Pennsylvania.”

“Today’s decision affirms that the Pennsylvania Constitution protects women’s reproductive rights and that any insurance ban violates those rights,” House Democratic leadership reiterated Speaker Joanna McClinton (D-Delaware/Philadelphia), House Majority Leader Matt Bradford (D-Montgomery) i House Speaker Jordan Harris (D-Philadelphia). “Access to health care is critical for all Pennsylvanians, and this review is a victory for women and families seeking health care.

“House Democrats remain committed to protecting the fundamental rights of all Pennsylvanians.”

Along with House Democrats, Senate Democrats filed two amicus briefs in the case in support of the Women’s Rights Bill and abortion providers, arguing that the bill prohibiting state dollars from funding abortion care violates the Equal Rights Amendment and equal protection laws.

“The court did not have to create a broad “right” to reproductive autonomy to decide this case, it said Randall WengerChief Advisor to the Independence Law Center. “And it shouldn’t. By doing so, he now forces all Pennsylvanians to subsidize elective abortions and threatens the guarantee of common sense.”

“Today is our Commonwealth Court[…]ruled that there is a right to reproductive autonomy and it is a right at the highest possible level,” she said Susan Frietsche Women’s Rights Project.

“This is a miscarriage of justice for taxpayers, mothers and children across Pennsylvania,” she said Mary V. Gallagherexecutive director of the Pennsylvania Pro-Life Federation, the Keystone State affiliate of National Right to Life.

“No taxpayer should be forced to pay for the taking of an innocent, unique human life. This decision is a radical violation of the protection of individual conscience and may result in a sharp increase in the number of abortions in our Commonwealth,” Gallagher added.

Three dissenting judges presided over Patricia McCullough, Anna CoveyAND Stacy Wallaceargued that the ruling effectively bypasses the legislative process.

“The majority is deciding an unnecessary constitutional issue by creating a new fundamental right that has no definition, contours, practical application or textual support in the Pennsylvania Constitution,” McCullough wrote in her dissent. “If the people desire such a right, they are free to amend their Constitution. This Court cannot.”

updated to include comments from Garrity and House Democrats

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Good morning! It’s tax day

Headlines. Flying final stretch in PA-03. The AP House passed Shapiro’s state budget proposal. Post-Gazette will continue publication after sale to nonprofit Media Group. Beloved Midwestern meat lottery

Your morning, pick me up. She can do anything. AL9 team

Weather in Pennsylvania
Mercer | Showers, 80’s
New Oxford | Sunny, 88
Saylorsburg | Mostly bright, 86

Sports PA
Phillies (8-9) | Young 4-10 | Wednesday vs. Chicago Cubs
Pirates (10-7) | Washington 4-5 | Wednesday vs. Washington
Sixes (45-37) | Wednesday – Orlando (preliminary match)
Leaflets (43-27-12) | Montreal 4-2 | TBA in Pittsburgh
Penguins (41-25-16) | Saint Louis 5-7 | Philadelphia TBA

What’s happening today. In the House of Representatives, voting takes place at 11:00.

What we hear. Mayor of Philadelphia Chelle Parkeralong with Representative Morgan Cephas, Senator Vincent Hughes and three city council members will pledge their endorsements in the PA-03 Democratic primary this afternoon.

Tips. PoliticsPA is Pennsylvania’s leading source of unbiased political news and analysis. Tips and press releases can be submitted [email protected].

PoliticsPA Guide was developed by Steve Ulrich. To read in your browser click here.

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The most significant story

1. Philly’s three-way fight to replace Dwight Evans in the US House of Representatives is entering an unstable finale

“All three top candidates running to represent Philadelphia in Congress have reason to be confident heading into the final month of the campaign.

That is: all three of them have reasons to be afraid. | Questioner from Philadelphia

Elsewhere

PA-07: Democrats’ position on issues including immigration and rising costs. “Four Democrats have lined up to challenge incumbent Republican Ryan Mackenzie, who is seeking a second term. Ahead of the May 19 primary, The Morning Call asked Democratic candidates for detailed thoughts on key issues, including the Iran war, inflation, immigration issues and other top topics. ” | Morning talk in Allentown

Gas costs over $4 a gallon in Philadelphia. Boyle wants to eliminate the federal gas tax to ease the pain. “U.S. Rep. Brendan Boyle announced a bill that would cap the federal gas tax when the national average gas price exceeds $4 a gallon while visiting a gas station in Northeast Philadelphia.” | Questioner from Philadelphia

What needs to happen before PA joins the 24 states with legal marijuana? “It’s been 10 years since then-Pennsylvania Governor Tom Wolf signed the medical marijuana bill into law, so how long will efforts to legalize recreational marijuana for adult use last?” | USA Today Network

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Country

2. AP House adopts Shapiro’s state budget proposal

“One down, one out.

The Pennsylvania House of Representatives passed a general appropriations bill Tuesday to fund the commonwealth’s Executive, Legislative and Judicial Department expenses, national debt and public schools. | PoliticsPA

Elsewhere

Shusterman proposes amending Pennsylvania’s constitution to address the state budget deadline. “You see it in practice all the time. There are deadlines… and there are also “real” deadlines. And in Harrisburg there is a “deadline” for passing the state budget in Pennsylvania. | PolitykaPA

The two newest members of the PA House are sworn in. “Andrea Verobish and Catherine Wallen received the oath of office from Speaker of the House Joanna McClinton on Monday and took their seats in the chamber.” | PoliticsPA

State efforts to rein in PBMs have hit a legal roadblock. “State efforts to regulate pharmacy benefit managers clash with federal law, reviving a power struggle over who can oversee the companies that manage drug benefits for most Americans. States are trying to rein in middlemen who negotiate drug prices and pay pharmacies, but face federal law that has the final word on employer health plans.” | Axles

PA State House Passes 2 Data Center Ordinance Measures. “The Pennsylvania House has approved two bills related to the construction of hyperscale data centers. This week’s votes are the latest moves by Harrisburg lawmakers to regulate a rapidly growing industry that is opposed by some community and environmental groups. ” | THAT’S ALL

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Around the Republic of Poland

3. The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette will continue publication after sale to Nonprofit Media Group

“The publisher of a highly regarded Baltimore-based nonprofit digital newspaper announced Tuesday that it has agreed to acquire the assets of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, ending nearly a century of family control of the newspaper.

Block Communications Inc. based in Toledo, Ohio, is selling the assets of the Post-Gazette Venetoulis Institute for Local Journalism, publisher of the Pulitzer Prize-winning Baltimore Banner. The press office and local business leadership will remain in Pittsburgh, while other functions, including technology and business operations, will be merged with teams at the Venetoulis Institute.” | Mail Newspaper

Elsewhere

O’Connor’s first 100 days as mayor of Pittsburgh were marked by crises, twists and coups. “In his first 100 days as mayor of Pittsburgh, Corey O’Connor has grappled with crises and celebrated successes.” | Grandstand overview

Offensive, blasphemous and disgraceful: Western Pennsylvania Catholics weigh in on public discourse between Trump and Pope Leo XIV. “West Deer resident Sam Mayhan has only ever voted for one person for president: Donald Trump. But the 28-year-old Catholic is now ‘pretty concerned’, feeling torn between his political loyalties and faith after the president’s recent social media attacks on Pope Leo XIV.” | Grandstand overview

Allegheny County Council proposes bill to ban law enforcement – including ICE – from wearing masks. “If passed, the ordinance would mean that any officer who intentionally conceals his or her face or badge while working in the county could be found guilty of withholding criminal information, which could result in penalties that include a fine of up to $500 and up to 90 days in jail.” | Pittsburgh Postal Newspaper

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Editorial

4. What do you think about it?

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1 item

5. Hot dogs, steaks and bacon, oh my god! Meat raffles keep alive a beloved Midwestern tradition

“In these polarizing times, Minnesotans have found something they can agree on — the thrill of the meat raffle.

Meat raffles have been popular across the United States for decades and are a great way to raise money for charity while also giving away prizes ranging from ground beef and scorching dogs to chicken breasts and steaks. But while inflation has skyrocketed and meat prices have skyrocketed, Minnesota’s $70 prize limit per event hasn’t changed in nearly 40 years. | AP

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Thank you for starting your day with us.
For some reason I’m thinking about grilling today. See you tomorrow.

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Since last September, more than 67,000 residents have added their names to Pennsylvania’s voter rolls.

And nearly 70 percent of them did not choose party affiliation.

The number of independent voters across the Commonwealth continues to grow, with nearly 46,000 people choosing the “no affiliation” option when registering to vote in “America’s Swing State” over the past six months.

Among the two major parties, Democrats appear to have stemmed the tide of voter registration losses, enrolling nearly 14,700 recent voters, while Republicans gained another 9,500.

Four examples of voters shunning the major parties can be seen this fall in four primary congressional races in the Commonwealth.

In PA-01, over 3,200 (3,255) chose the independent registration route, while Dems and GOP gained 961 and 320, respectively.

In the Lehigh Valley in PA-07, nearly 3,300 voted in favor of independent status, with Democrats (1,431) and Republicans (849) registering nearly 2,300.

Republicans had the best showing in NEPA, with 1,692 recent GOP registrants compared to just 50 for Democrats. But once again, independents led in PA-08 with 3,535.

In the PA-10 Capital Region, nearly 4,400 recent voters checked the “no affiliation” box on their form, compared with 2,134 for Democrats and only 210 for Republicans.

This quartet accounts for four of the five largest registration gaps between the state’s major parties.

• PA-01 (2.08): GOP 41.97%, Democrats 39.89%, Independent 14.18%
• PA-08 (2.33): Democrats 42.68%, GOP 40.34%, Independents 13.83%
• PA-07 (3.15): Democrats 41.32%, GOP 38.17%, Independents 16.91%
• PA-06 (3.54): Democrats 41.82%, GOP 38.28%, Independents 15.43%
• PA-10 (6.97): GOP 43.98%, Democrats 37.02%, Independent 15.63%

Statewide, independents currently make up 1 in eight voters (12.97%). Democrats still have a lead around the commonwealth at 42.75%, compared to 40.74% for Republicans. The 2.01% gap has increased by 0.04% for Democrats since last September.

“One of the things I promised to do was to focus on registering more Democrats,” PA Dems chairman said Eugene DePasquale. “That led to six months in a row of no Republican registration in Pennsylvania. So this is your first real survey, right, of how people are registering.”

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Good morning! A recent week begins.

Headlines. Information about Trump’s efforts to “take over” the midterm elections. Republicans at PA Leadership Conference express concerns about midterm elections. Quietly running Super PACs in sight. The finfluencers are coming.

Your morning, pick me up. I’d like. Stevie Wonder

Weather in Pennsylvania
Butler | Showers, 75
Breezewood | Mostly dull, 78
Nanticoke | Mostly dull, 75

Sports PA
Phillies (7-8) | Arizona 3-4 | Mon vs. Chicago Cubs
Pirates (9-6) | Chicago Cubs 6-7 | Mon vs. Washington
Sixes (45-37) | Indiana 105-94 | Milwaukee 126-106 | Wednesday vs. Orlando
Leaflets (41-27-12) | Winnipeg 7-1 | Tuesday vs. Montreal
Penguins (41-24-16) | Washington 3-6 | Washington 0-3 | Tuesday in St. Louis
Union (1-0-6) | Montreal 2-1 | I was sitting at DC United

What’s happening today. The state House will resume session at noon.

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The most crucial story

1. Information about Trump’s efforts to “take over” the midterm elections

“Ahead of this year’s midterm elections President Donald Trump he systematically broke down federal safeguards that prevented him from overturning the 2020 election.

At least 75 professional staff have left. Twenty candidates were hired, many of them from the voter denial movement. Ten helped attempt to overturn the 2020 vote.

Once marginal actors now have access to enormous power, which they have already used to push through unprecedented actions that critics say amount to partisan interference.” | ProPublica

Elsewhere

McCormick ‘Will Not Call Balls and Strikes’ on Trump’s Language. “U.S. Senator Dave McCormick (R-PA) agreed with the actions President Donald Trump took in Iran but stopped short of endorsing his message.” | abc27

Trump launches tirade at “weak”, “terrible” Pope Leo. “President Trump sharply criticized Pope Leo XIV on Sunday night, calling him “WEAK on crime and terrible on foreign policy” and accusing him of “satisfying the needs of the radical left.” Trump’s comments escalate already high tensions between the president and the first US-born pope, who has increasingly spoken out about the Trump administration’s immigration policy and the war in Iran.’ | Axles

DNC chairman tries to quash confusion over election autopsy coverup. “Democratic National Committee Chairman Ken Martin is quietly trying to quell criticism surrounding his decision to conceal the party’s ‘autopsy’ of what went wrong in the 2024 election.” | Axles

Fetterman downplays concerns about rising gas prices, blames the media. “Senator John Fetterman, in a televised appearance over the weekend, downplayed rising gas prices amid the war with Iran, saying the media was giving a false impression of a crisis.” | PennLive

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Country

2. AP Republicans defend Trump’s agenda, but admit at annual conference that election year is “extremely difficult”

“Pennsylvania Republicans – bracing for a series of tough elections this fall – gathered on Friday for their largest annual rally, where participants defended President Donald Trump achievements in the face of growing public dissatisfaction around its international and economic programs.

The conference, attended by some of the state’s most prominent Republican leaders and grassroots organizers, provided a glimpse into the message of a party trying to motivate a base that helped usher in sweeping victories less than two years ago.’ | Questioner from Philadelphia

Elsewhere

Republicans at PA Leadership Conference express concerns about midterm elections. “The chief executive of conservative group Citizens Alliance – Cliff Maloney – asked the audience to ‘do the work’ to ‘beat [Democrats] on your own game. Because 2026 could be ugly,” Maloney said. | PennLive

Gov. Josh Shapiro is rallying Center County Democrats ahead of the 2026 midterms. “Shapiro urged the audience to vote for him as governor in November so he can continue to fight Trump’s policies, try to raise the minimum wage in Pennsylvania and build more housing. Shapiro also called on Democrats to vote to flip the U.S. House of Representatives.” | WPSU

Deluzio’s next mission: recruiting other Democratic Party veterans to run for Congress. “As his party once again looks to gain a majority in the House and gain some power in Washington, Navy veteran turned U.S. Rep. Chris Deluzio is helping recruit and help military veterans run for Congress as Democrats, strengthening the party’s strength ahead of the fall midterm elections.” | Pittsburgh Postal Newspaper

Lieutenant Davis begins the tour at an affordable price. “The Shapiro-Davis administration is focusing on affordability – a political pressure point in the 2026 midterms – while touting policy victories to lower costs.” | Axios Pittsburgh

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Around the Republic of Poland

3. How two Congressional candidates in Philadelphia are quietly running a Super PAC in plain sight

“Democrats in Philadelphia’s hotly contested congressional race have spent months crafting detailed strategies to convince voters in the final weeks before the open primary elections in May. But the two front-runners aren’t keeping those plans close to the vest.

Instead, they put them on their websites.” | Questioner from Philadelphia

Elsewhere

Interview with Jason Richey, part 2. “This is the first time since I was in college that Democrats have a real shot at controlling the entire Legislature, and they have already moved toward abortion on demand, which Governor Shapiro supports by allowing abortion up to the point of delivery. This is something we absolutely oppose.” | Wide + Freedom

A Pennsylvania city is facing fallout from Trump’s rollback of environmental regulations. “North America’s largest coking plant straddles the west bank of the Monongahela River in Pennsylvania and spews emissions from converting superheated coal into carbon-rich fuel. Scientists say children at Clairton Elementary School about a mile away are paying the price.” | CBS News

Philly is considering recent restrictions on working with immigration agents. “Philadelphia would ban federal immigration officials from wearing masks and using city property for operations as part of a legislative package lawmakers are taking up today.” | Axios Philadelphia

Local election officials fear retaliation ahead of the fall elections. “Local elections officials are raising serious concerns about federal interference in their work as the fall midterm session heats up and experts worry about President Donald Trump’s efforts to assert greater control over voting.” | POLICY

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Editorial

4. What do you think about it?

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1 item

5. The influencers are coming

“Gen Z is more invested than any other generation in sowing what they scroll through. And in between all the videos showing the fruits of AI, they are scrolling through a lot of financially influential content, aka ‘finfluencers.’

“Suddenly you have someone who doesn’t look like your dad’s financial advisor. You have someone who looks like I could have been anyone’s best friend from college.” Vivian Herealso known as Your Rich BFF, a Wall Street trader turned influential businesswoman, she told Fortune. He’s among a group of newborn creators who get hundreds of thousands to millions of views on each video, explaining personal finance tips on FaceTime the same way a chronically online friend would.” | Morning infusion

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Thank you for starting your week with us.
Let’s make the most of it. See you tomorrow.

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Votebeat is a nonprofit organization reporting on voting access and election administration across the United States. Register our free weekly newsletter to get the latest.

A coalition of Democratic officials from 23 states, including Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro and the attorneys general of California, Massachusetts, Nevada and Washington sues the federal government over President Donald Trump modern executive order regulating postal voting.

Lawsuitfiled in Massachusetts, states that the ordinance violates the U.S. Constitution by usurping the states’ power to administer their own elections. The Constitution’s delegates determine the primary authority to hold elections, subject to rules established by Congress, but give the president no role.

“The United States Constitution clearly states that elections are to be administered by the states, and here in Pennsylvania we believe that election administration should be nonpartisan,” Shapiro said in a statement.

Trump has long claimed, without evidence, that mail-in voting is rife with fraud and has sought to curb it. On Tuesday, he signed, among others: executive order which directs the U.S. Postal Service not to deliver mail-in ballots from any voter who is not on the pre-approved list of voters who will receive mail-in ballots, and requires the envelope of each authorized mail-in voter to have a unique barcode.

The order also directs the Department of Homeland Security to create a list of adult citizens residing in each state and to provide that list to the states 60 days before the federal election.

The executive order is not Trump’s first attempt to influence how states conduct elections. Last March he issued an executive order which, among other things, tried to require proof of citizenship to register to vote. States sued under this order on similar legal grounds, and the courts have yet blocked the most this order main provisions.

This week’s lawsuit named Trump, the U.S. Department of Justice, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, the U.S. Social Security Administration, the U.S. Postal Service and several federal officials as defendants.

“The president’s latest attempt to interfere with the United States’ administration of elections is both unprecedented and unconstitutional,” the lawsuit said. “Neither the Constitution nor any act of Congress confers on the President the power to order radical changes in the electoral systems or procedures of the States.”

This is at least the fourth lawsuit filed against the executive order since Trump signed it on Tuesday. Two separate coalitions of voting rights groups sued Thursday, with one filing a lawsuit in federal court in Massachusetts and second in Washington Democratic Party groups filed the first lawsuit in Washington, D.C., on Wednesday.

“Only Democratic politicians and operatives would be upset by lawful efforts to secure American elections and ensure that only eligible American citizens cast ballots,” White House spokeswoman Abigail Jackson he said. “President Trump campaigned on securing our elections, and the American people sent him back to the White House to do that job.”

Shapiro with the Secretary of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Al SchmidtRepublican, immediately condemned the order when it was signed into law on Tuesday and signaled that legal action was imminent.

Shapiro joined the lawsuit in his capacity as governor, not on behalf of the state. Suing on behalf of the state is a responsibility that typically falls to the attorney general, and Pennsylvania’s current attorney general is a Republican Dave’s Sunday.

The attorneys general who joined the lawsuit represent Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, Oregon, Rhode Island, Vermont, Virginia, Washington and Wisconsin, as well as the District of Columbia.

The modern lawsuit is just the latest litigation between the Trump administration and states over election issues. The U.S. Department of Justice has sued 30 states, including Pennsylvania and the District of Columbia, over their refusal to turn over complete voter rolls. The Pennsylvania Department of State says handing over the data would be illegal because it contains private information.

Pennsylvania’s motion to dismiss this case is currently pending.

Carter Walker is a Votebeat reporter with Spotlight PA. Contact Carter at [email protected].

Votebeat Editor-in-Chief Carrie Levine contributed.