Pennsylvania Holds Tons of Special Elections That Cost Taxpayers Millions

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A Spotlight PA report has revealed that Pennsylvania holds numerous special elections each year, costing taxpayers millions of dollars. These special elections are often held to fill vacant seats in the state legislature, with the report noting that the state has held over 50 such elections since 2019, at an estimated cost of $3 million to $5 million annually.

Why it matters

The high frequency of special elections in Pennsylvania raises concerns about the efficient use of taxpayer funds, as well as the impact on voter engagement and turnout. The report suggests that reforms to the special election process, such as consolidating elections or changing the rules around when they are required, could potentially save the state significant sums of money.

The details

The Spotlight PA report found that Pennsylvania has held over 50 special elections since 2019 to fill vacant seats in the state legislature. These elections are often called when a lawmaker resigns, dies, or is removed from office. The report estimates that these special elections cost the state between $3 million and $5 million annually, with each individual election costing between $30,000 and $100,000 depending on the size of the district.

• Pennsylvania has held over 50 special elections since 2019 to fill vacant seats in the state legislature.
• The report estimates that these special elections cost the state between $3 million and $5 million annually.

What’s next

The report suggests that reforms to the special election process, such as consolidating elections or changing the rules around when they are required, could potentially save the state significant sums of money.