Westmoreland Review

On Tuesday, Nov. 5, polls will be open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. for voters to cast ballots in state and federal races, including for the office of President of the United States.

"For me, public elections of any kind are a celebration of American principles," said Rep. Jill Cooper (R-Westmoreland). "Free, fair and secure elections of our public officials were a major benchmark of our nation’s founders."

Participation in public elections requires some preparation. Confirming voter registration status can be done on the Pennsylvania Department of State website. The deadline to register is Oct. 21.

Pennsylvania offers mail-in voting for those unable to visit polling places on election day. Applications for mail-in ballots are available on the Pennsylvania Department of State website until Oct. 29. Completed ballots must be received by county election offices by 8 p.m. on election day.

Confusion has arisen regarding mail-in ballot procedures due to applications being sent unsolicited by various groups, leading some recipients to question their purpose or mistake them for actual ballots.

The upcoming election includes races for U.S. Senate and House of Representatives, as well as Pennsylvania Senate and House seats, along with state offices such as attorney general, auditor general, and treasurer.

Rep. Cooper emphasized that her offices are exclusively legislative in purpose and provide assistance regardless of voter registration or political affiliation.

In addition to election information, Rep. Cooper highlighted other news:

"We Will Never Forget!" - Sept. 11 marks the anniversary of the terrorist attacks that killed nearly 3,000 people in New York; Washington, D.C.; and Pennsylvania.

The Pennsylvania House Legislative Fellowship Program is accepting applications for its spring 2025 semester until Oct. 1.

Upcoming events include:

- Mobile Shredding Event with Sen. Joe Pittman on Sept. 16

- Seniors for Safe Driving Classes on Sept. 17 and Sept. 19

- Firearms Safety and Rights Seminar with Firearms Owners Against Crime on Sept. 19

For more information or questions about these topics or events, contact Rep Cooper's offices at Washington Township/Export (724-387-9113) or New Kensington (724-472-4102).