Diverse citizens of Philadelphia actively participating in the primary election process.
Philadelphia residents are preparing for a significant primary election on May 20, focusing on key races for District Attorney and City Controller. Incumbent District Attorney Larry Krasner is up against former judge Patrick Dugan, while Christy Brady faces Ari Patrinos for City Controller. Additionally, voters will decide on important ballot questions regarding homelessness, housing affordability, and prison oversight. With no Republican candidates for District Attorney, the Democratic primary is pivotal for the November election, underscoring the importance of voter participation.
Philadelphia residents are gearing up for an important primary election on May 20, featuring critical races for the position of District Attorney and City Controller. This primary is vital as there are no Republican candidates contesting the District Attorney role, making the Democratic primary decisive for the upcoming November general election.
The prominent matchup in this election is between the incumbent District Attorney Larry Krasner, who seeks a third term, and Patrick Dugan, a former Municipal Court judge with a military background. Dugan has been vocal in criticizing Krasner’s approach to crime, claiming that his policies have led to increased levels of violence in the city.
In contrast, Krasner has focused on his administration’s efforts to reduce the prosecution of minor offenses and has highlighted the recent declines in crime rates, which include recording the lowest number of homicides in decades. Voter engagement will be crucial, as the deadline for registering to vote in this primary has already passed. However, interested voters can still apply for mail-in or absentee ballots until May 13, with completed ballots needing to be submitted by 8 p.m. on the day of the primary.
Alongside the District Attorney race, Philadelphia voters will also have the opportunity to elect judges for various courts including the Superior Court and the Commonwealth Court. Democratic candidate Brandon Neuman alongside Republican candidates Maria Battista and Ann Marie Wheatcraft are in contention for the Superior Court. Meanwhile, the race for the Commonwealth Court features Democratic candidate Stella Tsai and Republican Matt Wolford.
The position of City Controller, currently held by Christy Brady, is also on the ballot. Appointed as acting controller in November 2022, Brady won a full term in the subsequent general election. She has prioritized issues surrounding the construction sector and gun violence. Her opponent, Ari Patrinos, has pledged to focus on advocating for responsible budgeting practices and reducing bureaucratic hurdles within the city’s operations.
Additionally, voters will face three significant ballot questions related to amendments to the Home Rule Charter:
These ballot questions arise from ongoing challenges faced by the city, particularly concerning homelessness and prison oversight. Historical context in Philadelphia regarding these issues has heightened the need for potential changes in governance and service delivery.
Voters can also elect judges of elections and inspectors who oversee local polling places. Sample ballots are available through the City Commissioner’s office, providing clarity on candidates and ballot measures.
Since Philadelphia implements closed primaries, participation will be limited to voters registered with the Democratic Party for these elections. This reinforces the importance for registered voters in this party to make their voices heard in the upcoming primary and ultimately shape the direction of these key offices in the city.
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