Court decisions don't matter: bucks county dem commissioners vote to count bad ballots

Court Decisions Don’t Matter: Bucks County Dem Commissioners Vote to Count Bad Ballots

November 15, 2024

BUCKS COUNTY, PA — Two Democratic county commissioners have come under fire after voting to count disputed ballots despite a Pennsylvania Supreme Court ruling, prompting accusations of violating the rule of law.

During a public meeting, Commissioners Diane Marseglia and Bob Harvie voted to include ballots that Republican officials and party attorneys claim are illegal under the court’s precedent. The controversy centers around an attempt to aid former Senator Bob Casey, who is locked in a closely watched political contest.

In defending her vote, Marseglia stated, “…precedent by a court doesn’t matter anymore in this country. And people violate laws anytime they want. For me if I violate this law, it’s because I want a court to pay attention to it.”

Republican Commissioner Gene DiGirolamo opposed the decision, introducing a motion to uphold the court’s ruling, but the measure was overruled by the Democratic majority.

Republican leaders, including the Pennsylvania GOP and the Republican National Committee, have announced plans to take legal action. Attorneys are reportedly working to challenge the commissioners’ decision in court, arguing it undermines the Supreme Court’s authority and threatens election integrity.

This latest development highlights growing tensions in the state, which has been a key battleground in recent elections. Legal proceedings are expected to unfold in the coming days as both sides prepare for what could be a pivotal court battle.

Phil Stilton

Phil Stilton

Phil Stilton is the Editor and Publisher of Shore News Network, an independent digital news organization covering New Jersey, national politics, public policy, public safety, and community affairs. With years of experience reporting on local government, elections, law enforcement, and issues impacting residents throughout New Jersey, Stilton has built a reputation for delivering timely news, in-depth reporting, and accountability journalism.

As the founder of Shore News Network, Stilton oversees editorial operations, investigative reporting, and breaking news coverage while working closely with journalists, public officials, and community leaders. His reporting has covered municipal government, state politics, federal policy, public records investigations, emergency management, and major news events affecting local communities.

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