Preparing for voting problems in Philadelphia

Hoping a tradition of Election Day troubles doesn’t materialize

Those who run the electoral process are gearing up for a smooth Election Day in Philadelphia.

Marge Tartaglione is head of the Philadelphia City Commissioners. “There are going to be many many fights,” she says. Tartaglione says in addition to a battle for Governor, and the US Senate, there are neighborhood races for Committee person and those always cause problems on Election Day.

She also worries about people voting in schools while classes are in session. Philadelphia schools usually close for voting, but with so many snow days this year, they could not stay shut. Tartaglione is upset with Superintendent Arlene Ackerman’s decision to keep schools open.

“Some of these schools are in classes in lunchrooms and we’re getting bombarded with calls, it’s not our fault it’s Ackerman’s fault because she never returned calls.”

Philadelphia schools are opening two hours as a compromise. If you have problems voting, you can call the DA’s office at (215) 686-9641. They will have teams available citywide to deal with any issues or fights.