A major jurisdiction in the swing state of Pennsylvania is under scrutiny after election officials uncovered 2,500 fraudulent voter registration forms. These forms were submitted to the Board of Elections in two separate batches as the registration deadline approached. County officials held a press conference on Friday to announce the initiation of a thorough investigation. Ray DiAgostino, vice chairman of the Lancaster County Board of Commissioners and chairman of the Board of Elections, confirmed the findings.
“As we’ve said throughout this election cycle and years prior, Lancaster County conducts elections with integrity, veracity, and transparency,” DiAgostino said. “It is our duty to ensure voters can feel confident in the process.” Lancaster County plays a crucial role in Pennsylvania’s electoral landscape, which is a vital battleground in national elections. As one of the largest counties in Pennsylvania by population, Lancaster has consistently been a Republican stronghold, providing significant margins for GOP candidates.
The elections office’s regular review process flagged suspicious registrations. DiAgostino explained that this process identified potential voter registration fraud involving two separate batches submitted by individuals that contained irregularities. “It is through their diligence that our staff uncovered apparent incidents of attempted voter registration fraud here in Lancaster County. In the staff’s normal review process, as many as 2,500 completed voter registration forms are being researched for potential fraud stemming from two separate drop batches by individuals,” DiAgostino said.
The Elections Board chairman outlined the steps being taken to verify the authenticity of the forms. This multi-step review includes comparing handwriting, checking signatures against existing records, and verifying addresses, driver’s licenses, and social security numbers. “Some of these or many of them are unverifiable and or inaccurate addresses, inaccurate driver’s license or social security number of verification. We have an obligation under the election code not only that but a moral obligation to investigate any matters of potential fraud.” The investigation aims to determine whether further legal action is warranted.
DiAgostino emphasized that the investigation would not hinder eligible voters from participating in the upcoming elections.“No eligible voter will be turned away,” he assured. He also stated that the Pennsylvania Department of State and the Attorney General’s Office were informed about the situation. The official concluded the press conference by reiterating Lancaster County’s commitment to election integrity. “We will continue to conduct elections with the principles of integrity, veracity, and transparency.” The investigation is ongoing, and no additional details have been provided about potential suspects or the origins of the fraudulent forms.
Disclaimer: This article may contain commentary which reflects the author’s opinion.