Countdown to the 2024 Primary Election: What You Need to Know

With less than 12 hours until the start of voting in the 2024 primary election, local Democrats and Republicans are working hard to inform and engage voters. While some races are uncontested, party leaders are emphasizing the importance of voter turnout in the primaries.

Republican Party chairman Tom Eddy highlighted the increased interest this week, with more people visiting Republican headquarters and inquiring about candidates. Eddy stressed the significance of the primary election in setting the stage for name recognition leading up to the general election.

On the Democratic side, the focus has been on registering as many voters as possible, as well as leaving voter engagement to the candidates. Erie County Democratic Party chairman Sam Talarico acknowledged the challenge of low voter turnout due to the lack of competition and a growing number of registered independents.

Both parties are gearing up for the general election once the primary votes are counted. Eddy and Talarico emphasized the importance of staying neutral during the primaries and then actively campaigning for their chosen candidates in the general election.

As more voters opt for mail-in ballots, party leaders are recognizing the importance of this method in ensuring as many people as possible participate in the election process. With Pennsylvania expected to be a closely contested state, every vote will count in the upcoming elections.