CARLISLE, Pa. — On Tuesday, voters made their way to their polling locations for the Pennsylvania Primary Election.
However, the big ticket races remain uncompetitive, as both major party candidates for President are already decided.
As President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump look ahead to their rematch in November, recent polling suggests that interest in the upcoming election is at a near 20-year low.
“We come here because it’s part of our duty as citizens of the United States," said Linda Sempky, a voter from Newberry Township. "But, we’re not thrilled with what our choices are.”
“I’m so worried about all the divisiveness, and what’s going to become of us," said Marilyn Tenenoff, another voter from Newberry Township.
The Biden and Trump rematch also has a chance to affect voter turnout for the primary. Dickinson College political science professor Sarah Niebler said Pennsylvania primary turnout has dropped to around 18% when previous Presidential races were uncompetitive.
“We know people turn out to vote based on what’s at the top of the ticket," said Sarah Niebler, associate professor of political science. "So, the fact that the Presidential primaries on both parties are determined, there’s not a lot of incentive for folks to come out today.”
Despite the Presidential Primary being decided, voters say they are focusing on making their voices heard in key local races.
"There [are] other important races in Pennsylvania, including Scott Perry and the Democratic primary [for Pennsylvania's 10th Congressional District]," said Tenenoff. "I got to choose from several people who might be the one to oppose him, and who might have a better chance against him."
Other voters are focusing on different key issues, such as abortion, the economy and immigration.
“I really looked at how the candidates were responding to abortion rights and gun safety, specifically," said Rachel Pistol, a junior at Dickinson College. "With Pennsylvania being a purple state, those are very important things to focus on."