On November 4, 2025, the citizens of Pennsylvania will have the opportunity to make their voices heard by voting in the Municipal Election. From 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. on election day, the polls will be open to all registered voters. To be eligible to vote in this election, voters must have registered prior to October 20, 2025.
While some young people may not be familiar with this election, conducting research on candidates and participating in voting helps shape the state’s political landscape.
Senior Leah Ross stated, “As younger people, we need to think about our future and the future of our country. I think it’s important to vote because you want to make your opinions heard.”
The reason for this election is to fill vacancies on the Commonwealth Court and Superior Court. The Superior Court handles all criminal, family and civil cases that the county Courts of Common Pleas appeal. The Commonwealth Court listens mostly to appeals in cases involving local governments and civil arguments by and against the Pennsylvania state government.
The judges on this court are part of decisions and outcomes in high-profile criminal cases. Whoever is elected to the Commonwealth Court in this election could help shape Pennsylvania’s state laws, from firearms to elections. Just last December, these judges heard a case regarding the constitutionality of state preemptive firearm laws and municipalities’ ability to pass local gun regulations. They upheld that municipalities cannot create gun regulations. These judges serve a 10-year term and then have a nonpartisan retention vote. This usually succeeds, and they are able to serve another term.
A feature that is unique to only a few states, with Pennsylvania being one of them, is that these candidates are able to run under a political party, receive endorsements and collect donations.
With only one open seat in the Commonwealth Court, the competition is intense between Democratic candidate Stella Tsai and Republican candidate Matthew Wolford. Both candidates have been practicing law for years and are passionate about the opportunity to serve on the Commonwealth Court.
In charge of criminal and civil cases that don’t involve the government is the Superior Court, which also has one seat up for grabs. The three candidates for the position are Democrat Brandon P. Neuman, Republican Maria Battista and Liberal Daniel Wassmer.
Although the candidates all have many beliefs, they run on a few strong ideas to give a clear view of their intentions and gain a following.
“When voting, I think it’s important to research the candidates and base who you vote for based on personal opinion. You should do your research and focus on what you personally believe in,” expressed Senior Carter Jobes.
Any legal adult registered as of October 20 will be able to participate in this election. This can be done easily on vote.gov by following the steps on the website.
