McCormick pushes early voting as Republicans gain ground in Pennsylvania

GOP Senate candidate Dave McCormick participated in early voting in Pittsburgh, a traditionally Democratic area, on Monday. Pennsylvania Republicans are narrowing the pre-Election Day voting lead held by Democrats. McCormick emphasised the importance of mail-in voting, noting Monday was the last day to register for it. He aimed to motivate others by leading by example.

Recent polls indicate a close race between McCormick and incumbent Democratic Senator Bob Casey. The Cook Political Report shifted the contest from leaning Democratic to a toss-up. Following former President Donald Trump’s past remarks about voter fraud, Republicans are intensifying efforts to promote early and mail-in voting for the 2024 election.

Mark Harris, McCormick’s campaign strategist, highlighted their team’s outreach efforts, including door-knocking, phone calls, and social media activities. These efforts aim to boost early voting among supporters, similar to initiatives by groups like Americans for Prosperity and Elon Musk’s America PAC.

Harris revealed that Republicans recently surpassed Democrats in mail-in ballot requests, with 17,000 more requests. While Democrats still have a larger total number of requests, the Republican share of mail-in returns has increased significantly, from 21% in 2020 to 30% twelve days before Election Day.

Cliff Maloney, involved with Pennsylvania’s mail-in voting project, suggested that Trump could win Pennsylvania with a 26% share of mail-in votes and secure victory with 33%. His team has engaged 120 canvassers, who have visited nearly 360,000 homes to encourage voting.

Outside Allegheny County Office Building, McCormick’s supporters, including Janet Sidor, assisted voters with mail-in ballot issues. At least six early voters in line expressed support for the Republican ticket. Pat Mason, accompanied by his daughter voting for the first time, cited the effective promotion of early voting compared to 2020.

Mark and Catherine Zik, South Fayette residents, expressed their support for McCormick due to his business acumen and military background. Meanwhile, Matt and Kim Smith, recent arrivals from California, were less informed about McCormick but enthusiastic about Trump’s policies.

However, some voters remain hesitant. Judy Gough from Forest Hills prioritises a woman’s right to choose and plans to vote Democrat, citing distrust of McCormick due to his association with Trump. Andrea Petri, an Italian emigrant, expressed reluctance to support the Republican Party, referencing concerns about fascism.

McCormick encouraged his backers to continue their efforts, urging them to engage not only Republicans but also independents and Democrats in the voting process.