Letter to the editor: Misinformation on Pa. election deadlines

I hoped that Paul Kengor, a professor of political science at Grove City College, would be more knowledgeable about Pennsylvania elections.

His column “Will MLB boycott the Pirates — and the Phillies?” (April 15, TribLIVE) contained wrong information, saying absentee ballots must be in by May 11. Ballots must be received by 8 p.m. May 18, Election Day.

Kengor said absentee ballots require photo ID, “PennDOT ID number,” or the last four digits of your Social Security number. Wrong. The absentee ballot I filled out needed only my signature on the outer envelope, so the election officials can compare it to my signature already on file. (Perhaps the rule for first time voters is different).

Kengor said “Pennsylvania has restrictions … on everything from pens to emery boards.” Yes, restrictions on the distance from voting machines. I’ve been offered promotional items right outside the polling place doors every time I’ve voted in person. Has he not had the same experience?

Sorry, Mr. Kengor, I question other examples you put forth to support your opinions, since your election information is wrong, on a subject you should be expert in.

Bonnie Marron

Unity

Editor’s note: The online version of Kengor’s column was corrected to reflect that May 11 was the date to apply for mail-in ballots, which must be received by May 18.