Rep. John Lawrence of Chester County has voiced his concerns regarding Governor Josh Shapiro’s recent decision to implement automatic voter registration. In a statement, Lawrence emphasized that “Governor Shapiro lacks the authority to unilaterally take this action, plain and simple.” He pointed out that any changes to election law fall under the jurisdiction of the General Assembly rather than the executive branch.
Lawrence drew parallels between Shapiro’s approach and actions taken during former Governor Tom Wolf’s administration. He noted instances where Wolf bypassed legislative processes, leading to rebukes from both courts and Pennsylvania voters who later approved a constitutional amendment limiting gubernatorial powers.
The representative also raised questions about the safeguards in place to prevent ineligible individuals from being added to voter rolls through this executive order. “The governor has not detailed how those who are ineligible to vote will be prevented from accessing the voter rolls through his executive action,” he stated.
Emphasizing the importance of voting rights, Lawrence urged Governor Shapiro to retract his order and collaborate with the General Assembly on substantial reforms to Pennsylvania’s Election Code. “Voting is a sacred right and must be protected at all costs,” he asserted.
