Elections and Voting

Seventy is an advocate for improving elections in Philadelphia and PA, and works tirelessly to educate and engage voters so they can confidently cast their ballot twice a year, every year.

What We're Doing

We advocate for policies that protect the integrity of voters and the election process, and we offer a variety of programs to inform and engage voters about the candidates and the process.

From registering to vote, to where to vote, to what your voting rights are — the Voting 101 resources give citizens the information they need to be engaged in the democratic process year-round.

WeVote For Democracy

Seventy’s WeVote campaign prepares, inspires and informs citizens, organizations, businesses, civic leaders, and elected officials across Pennsylvania to promote a culture of voting.

Ahead of the 2024 Presidential Election, Seventy reviews Act 77 and ways state government can help election administration for the better.

Know what you're voting for before heading to the polls. Learn about every office, measure and candidate by creating your own ballot through Seventy’s customized digital tool.

From voting procedures to voter toolkits, the Pennsylvania Department of State has the information you’ll need to vote through their Votes PA website.

Learn about voter registration, voting procedures, running for office and working at the polls from the Philadelphia Votes website — powered by the Office of the Philadelphia City Commissioners.

It's important for voters to not only have access to the voting process, but know how it works. This guide provides voters with the tools they need to successfully cast a valid ballot for upcoming elections.

Read Seventy’s opinions, statements, and our latest think pieces to stay informed about what’s going on in Pennsylvania politics.

Seventy is a hub for everyone who expects more from their government in Philadelphia and Pennsylvania. Stay up-to-date through our newsletter, social media, and programs.

Work with us to improve the voting process, inform citizens and increase participation in your neighborhood, community, school or work place.

Know who and what you're voting for, and why it matters, before heading to the polls. Learn about every office, measure and candidate by creating your own ballot through Seventy’s customized digital tool.

The Five Habits of Highly Effective Citizens

Voting is necessary but not sufficient. A thriving democracy requires active participation, so we have a checklist of five research-based habits that helps you be an effective, active citizen.

Seventy provides everything you need to be an informed and effective voter. Check your registration, find your polling place, apply to vote by mail, and much more.

Invite Diverse Perspectives

Seventy helps communities and organizations hold civil discourses about challenging political issues to promote constructive dialogue.

Choose Your News Wisely

Navigating today’s media landscape isn’t easy. Discover the best tools to help you tell facts from fiction and maintain a healthy media diet.

Learn How it Works

Learn how elections work, how government operates, and what you need to know to fully participate as an active citizen.

Being an informed voter is the first step towards active citizenship. Go one step further by advocating for change, volunteering, becoming a poll worker, or even running for office.

CEO David Thornburgh: Why Every Vote Counts

Seventy works to make sure all voices are heard through our WeVote, CPR, and poll worker recruiting initiatives.

Committee of Seventy Releases Statement on Commonwealth Court Ruling on Mail-In Ballot Envelope Dating

President and CEO of the Committee of Seventy, Lauren Cristella, statement regarding today’s Commonwealth Court ruling on mail-in ballot envelope dating.

Committee of Seventy Earns American Bar Association’s 2024 Unsung Heroes of Democracy Award

Earlier this month, representatives from the Committee of Seventy traveled to Chicago, Ill for the American Bar Association’s (ABA) Democracy Summit during the ABA’s Annual Meeting. During the summit, the ABA’s Task Force for American Democracy presented the 2024 Unsung Heroes of Democracy Award to the Committee of Seventy and 21 other organizations and individuals.

Committee of Seventy Releases Statement on Developments in Presidential Election Process

President and CEO of the Committee of Seventy, Lauren Cristella, released a statement regarding recent developments in the presidential election process.

C70 Statement on the Attack Against Fmr. Pres. Trump

C70 condemns this violent attack and calls on leaders across all ideologies and sectors to speak out against violence publicly and in no uncertain terms.

2024 Women in Public Leadership Event

Testimony on Nonprofit Exemption for City Contracting

Committee of Seventy Awarded $900,000 in Grant Funding

The Committee of Seventy announced that it has been awarded major grants totaling $900,000 to support its work to strengthen democracy, elections and civic education in Philadelphia and Pennsylvania. This includes an $800,000 grant from William Penn Foundation, matching their previous investment from 2022—the largest grant Seventy ever received in its history. Seventy will also receive $80,000 from the Agua Fund, and $20,000 from CivXNow, a project of iCivics.

Committee of Seventy Releases Columns From Transition Sessions for Mayor and City Council

The Committee of Seventy, with support from the William Penn Foundation, hosted a series of briefings beginning in the fall of 2023 to help manage upcoming transitions into office for the Mayor and City Council. In an effort to share insights from the briefings with the public, Seventy released several columns on the sessions written by Dave Davies.

February 29, 2024

Committee of Seventy Launches Poll Worker and Poll Watcher Information Sessions

For the fourth consecutive year, the Committee of Seventy, in partnership with the League of Women Voters of Pennsylvania, launched its poll worker and poll watcher virtual information sessions in advance of the April 23, 2024 primary election. Between March 1st and April 22nd, Seventy and the LWVPA will host nearly 30 sessions designed for both new and experienced poll workers and poll watchers.

January 10, 2024

Committee of Seventy Releases Statement on Changes in Philadelphia City Commissioner’s Office

Committee of Seventy President and CEO Lauren Cristella released a statement regarding the appointment of City Commissioner Omar Sabir as Chairperson and Stephanie Reid as Director of Election Administration of the Philadelphia City Commissioners.

December 14, 2023

Committee of Seventy's Response to Philadelphia Ethics Board Announcement

C70's response to Ethics Board Announcement regarding their Campaign Finance Regulation (Regulation No. 1)

November 17, 2023

Public Comment, School District of Philadelphia Board Meeting

Director of Civic Education Justin Villere comments on behalf of Committee of Seventy to endorse voter education curriculum in public schools.

November 15, 2023

Public Comment on Regulation No. 5 - Conflict of Interest

October 26, 2023

300 Philadelphia Students March to City Hall for Vote Early Day

Students from eight schools participated in the “Give Us a Ballot” march and completed their mail-in ballots as part of a national celebration.

October 05, 2023

Statement on Proposed Election Reforms

September 18, 2023

Urgent Election Reform Release

C70 partners with Ceiba for youth community engagement in Philly

C70 welcomed over 40 Philadelphians to a community event that celebrating summer-long civic engagement programming for youth across the city.

Committee of Seventy Names Lauren Cristella President and CEO

High School Students Choose Helen Gym, New Slate of City Council Members in PA Youth Vote Mock Election

Coverage Roundup: C70 Poll of the 2023 Mayor’s Race

First Public Poll Finds a Statistical Tie in Philadelphia’s 2023 Mayoral Race

With a plurality of voters — 20% — still undecided, the election’s results are far from predetermined.

Committee of Seventy and Partners to Issue First Public, Nonpartisan Poll in 2023 Mayor’s Race

The effort will highlight the impact that ranked-choice voting could have if implemented in Pennsylvania.

C70 joins forces with youth voter education organization, Vote That Jawn

The partnership unifies two of Pennsylvania's leaders in civic participation and expands C70’s existing mission to connect in new ways with youth and first-time voters.

Statement on Chief Public Safety Director Charter Amendment

Seventy has become increasingly concerned about the proliferation of Charter amendments over the past 20 years. The process by which this proposed amendment was passed by City Council adds to these concerns.

Committee of Seventy Releases Democracy Agenda for Philadelphia

This blueprint for the next administration and City Council is designed to promote transparent and accountable government and strengthen democracy in Philadelphia.

February 06, 2023

Testimony on Civil Service Exemption for Citizens Police Oversight Commission

The Committee of Seventy expressed concern about a proposal to create a special carve out from the civil service system for staff of the Citizens Police Oversight Commission and urged lawmakers to instead focus on the systemic and underlying issues in recruitment, hiring, retention and promotion that plague the city workforce.

January 27, 2023

Testimony on Rules Reform and Bipartisanship

C70 Chief Policy Officer Pat Christmas submits testimony on rules reform and fostering bipartisanship to the Speaker's Workgroup to Move Pennsylvania Forward.

January 26, 2023

BallotPA Testimony on Bipartisanship for Speaker's Workgroup

BallotPA chair David Thornburgh urged Speaker Rozzi and his bipartisan workgroup members to consider allowing independents to vote in primary elections as a means to ease partisan gridlock.

January 19, 2023

Lauren Cristella Named Interim President of the Committee of Seventy

Cristella will retain the title of Chief Operating Officer as the nonpartisan nonprofit’s Transition Committee works to make future recommendations to the board.

January 12, 2023

State Senate Passes Controversial Amendments to Constitution

The Committee of Seventy is deeply concerned about the PA Senate's approval of two controversial amendments to the state Constitution.

January 06, 2023

C70 President and CEO Al Schmidt to Receive Presidential Citizens Medal

The medal, the second-highest civilian award given by our government, recognizes extraordinary efforts to protect American democracy.

January 05, 2023

Governor-elect Josh Shapiro nominates C70 President and CEO Al Schmidt as Secretary of the Commonwealth

Governor-elect Josh Shapiro announced his intent to appoint Al Schmidt, President and CEO of the Committee of Seventy, as Secretary of the Commonwealth.

December 07, 2022

C70 to Serve as Community Hub for Lenfest “Every Voice, Every Vote” coalition

The project aims to amplify the issues that matter to voters in neighborhoods across Philadelphia during the 2023 municipal election.

October 31, 2022

C70 Partners With Morgan Lewis to Promote Civic Engagement

This partnership will educate and empower team members from one of Philadelphia's preeminent law firms to get involved and support democracy.

September 19, 2022

Committee of Seventy Hosts National Voter Registration Day Rally and Call to Action

Committee of Seventy will announce a special raffle for businesses and organizations that sign up as WeVote partners ahead of Election Day on November 8.

Women in Public Leadership Event

On May 26, 2022, the Committee of Seventy hosted an event celebrating women in public leadership and honoring Judith M. von Seldeneck with its Civic Leadership Award.

C70 Testimony on Bill Nos. 220049, 220360, and 220361

Committee of Seventy Awarded $850,000 to Strengthen Democracy and Build Trust in Pennsylvania’s Elections

The nonprofit’s largest ever single grant will also fund voter outreach and support for election workers.

New Reform Legislation Would Add Transparency, Public Input to Opaque Redistricting Process

Councilmember Derek Green today introduced his second package of reform legislation this year, this time proposing a special commission to gather public input for redrawing Philadelphia’s 10 City Council districts.

Councilmember’s Trial Highlights the Need for Reforms to Ethics Rules and Council Prerogative

The public will have to wait for a final outcome in Councilmember Kenyatta Johnson's trial. In the meantime, there is work to be done to bolster Philadelphians’ trust in City Hall.

February 15, 2022

Priorities for Safe and Secure 2022 Elections

Unprecedented collaboration among various stakeholders and an extraordinary increase in resources were necessary to make the 2020 elections successful. The City Commissioners and their staff will need the support of city and state officials, civic and community leaders, and businesses throughout Philadelphia again this year to ensure safe, secure, and accessible elections.

January 26, 2022

C70 Testimony on Philadelphia City Council Redistricting - Bill No. 220003

January 12, 2022

C70 Letter to the PA House of Representatives Opposing HB38

To those who value our system of checks and balances, House Bill 38 contemplates a fundamentally different relationship between the legislative and judicial branches wherein the former has unequal power over the latter. Such a change would irreparably and severely impair the governance of the Commonwealth, and would harm the independence and impartiality of our court system. C70 urges the PA House to not advance this proposed constitutional amendment and allow HB 38 to lapse at the end of this session.

December 01, 2021

Press Coverage of People Over Politics Movement

On Monday, November 29th, the Committee of Seventy joined a number of elected officials and good government groups including the League of Women Voters and Common Cause, in calling for reforms to combat corruption in Philadelphia.

November 30, 2021

Philadelphia City Commissioner Al Schmidt to Serve as President & CEO of Committee of Seventy

Today, the Committee of Seventy’s Board of Directors announced that Al Schmidt has been named President and Chief Executive Officer of Pennsylvania’s long standing nonpartisan advocate for better government.

November 15, 2021

Statement on the Conviction of Councilmember Bobby Henon and Local 98 Business Manager John Dougherty

The conviction of Councilmember Bobby Henon and Local 98 business manager John Dougherty marks a historic break from business as usual in Philadelphia politics.

October 28, 2021

Philadelphia City Council Redistricting Roadmap for an Open, Accessible and Inclusive Process

Philadelphia took a significant step forward in the 2011 redistricting cycle when several of the most gerrymandered districts in the country were finally addressed. This was due, in no small part, to substantial advocacy both in the communities negatively affected and by champions within City Hall of a more fair map that strove for equitable representation.

October 21, 2021

David Thornburgh's Testimony to the PA State Government Committee

C70 CEO and Chair of the Draw the Lines PA initiative, David Thornburgh, testified on October 20, 2021 before the PA State Government Committee about congressional redistricting.

September 17, 2021

Statement on Misguided Senate Action to Subpoena Voter Records and Personal Information Regarding the 2020 General Election

Statement on Misguided Senate Action to Subpoena Voter Records and Personal Information Regarding the 2020 General Election

Letter to York County Commissioners Regarding Partisan Election Review

The following letter was emailed to York County Commissioners Julie Wheeler (President), Doug Hoke (Vice President), and Ron Smith on August 12.

Testimony on Citizen Participation in Congressional Redistricting

Testimony on Citizen Participation in Congressional Redistricting in the Senate State Government Committee

David Thornburgh to Step Aside as Committee of Seventy CEO to Assume New Role as Senior Advisor

Testimony of David Thornburgh, President & CEO of Committee of Seventy, on the Issue of Congressional Redistricting

Testimony of David Thornburgh, President & CEO of Committee of Seventy, on the Issue of Congressional Redistricting

Statement on Redistricting Process

Statement from David Thornburgh President and CEO of The Committee of Seventy And Chair of Draw The Lines PA

Statement on Sen. Doug Mastriano’s Demand for Election Materials from Targeted Counties

Committee of Seventy Statement on Sen. Doug Mastriano’s Demand for Election Materials from Targeted Counties

Committee of Seventy Statement on Governor Wolf’s Veto of House Bill 1300

Statement on SB735 and the Current Debate Over Election Policy in Pennsylvania

Letter to House State Government Committee on HB1300

Written Testimony on Proposal to Eliminate the “Rule of Two” in Civil Service Promotions and Hiring

Testimony on Congressional Redistricting Criteria

Bipartisan Open Primaries Legislation Introduced

BIPARTISAN OPEN PRIMARIES LEGISLATION INTRODUCED Proposal would allow 900,000 independent voters to vote on candidates in taxpayer-funded primary elections

Sen. Dan Laughlin to Introduce Open Primaries Legislation to Enfranchise 900,000 Independent Voters on Election Day

Sen. Dan Laughlin to Introduce Open Primaries Legislation to Enfranchise 900,000 Independent Voters on Election Day

Committee of Seventy and Draw the Lines PA congratulate Mark Nordenberg on his appointment to chair the Legislative Reapportionment Commission

Committee of Seventy and Draw the Lines PA congratulate Mark Nordenberg on his appointment to chair the Legislative Reapportionment Commission

Testimony on Priority Election Reforms and Rebuilding Trust

C70 to Kick Coffee Can of Destiny Down the Ben Franklin Parkway into New Coffee Museum

Philadelphia, PA (April 1, 2019) --- The Committee of Seventy (C70) announced today that it has negotiated rights to acquire the "Coffee Can of Destiny" (CCoD) from the Office of the Philadelphia City Commissioners and plans to donate it to a new Philadelphia Coffee Museum to be built on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway.

Draw the Lines PA Applauds Certification of Legislative Reapportionment Commission

February 24, 2021

Statement on Joint State Government Committee Hearing on Census Data

January 13, 2021

Letter to House Judiciary Committee: Oppose Judicial Districts (HB 38)

January 07, 2021

Committee of Seventy Statement on Insurrection at the U.S. Capitol

December 11, 2020

Pennsylvania’s election was free and fair. We need our public officials to stand firm.

November 18, 2020

Committee of Seventy Statement on HR 1100

November 07, 2020

Committee of Seventy Congratulates Projected Winners of 2020 Election

November 05, 2020

Committee of Seventy Denounces President's Attack on Democracy, Calls to Finish the Count

November 04, 2020

Committee of Seventy Statement on Continued Vote Count

October 30, 2020

Why Voters in Philadelphia Can Trust the Election Process

October 30, 2020

Por qué los votantes de Filadelfia pueden confiar en el proceso electoral

October 16, 2020

Letter to PA Senators: Counties Need Time to Process Ballots

September 30, 2020

Statement on HR 1032 to Create a Select Committee on Election Integrity

September 23, 2020

Letter to Senate State Government Committee: Support Redistricting Criteria and Transparency Bill

September 19, 2020

Letter to General Assembly: Urgent Election Code Fixes Needed for Counties and Voters

New Statewide Poll Finds Strong Support for Primary Reform

Legislative Changes Urgently Needed Prior to November 2020 Election

Written Testimony on Preparing Philadelphia for the November 2020 Election

Written Testimony on Bill 200363, Bill 200367 and Resolution 200377

Proposals to Reinstitute a Pre-hire Residency Requirement for City Employees and Create a Citizens Police Oversight Commission City Council Law and Government Committee June 17, 2020

Letter to PA Senators: Committee of Seventy Opposes Regional Judicial Elections, HB 196

Open Primaries PA hosting Virtual Advocacy Day to Secure Voting Rights for All Pennsylvanians Ahead of Primary Elections

Open Primaries PA hosting Virtual Advocacy Day to Secure Voting Rights for All Pennsylvanians Ahead of Primary Elections

Massive Polling Place Consolidation Announced For the June 2 Primary

Committee of Seventy Calls on PA Congressional Leaders to Support Additional Federal Funding to Ensure Safe and Secure Elections

Local jurisdictions will bear the heaviest burden of protecting voters and workers from COVID-19. They need federal funding now.

Open Primaries PA Launches Statewide Digital Campaign

Committee of Seventy Launches WeVote to Promote Culture of Voting

Committee of Seventy Launches WeVote to Promote Culture of Voting and Encourage Vote-by-Mail in 2020 in the Commonwealth of PA

General Assembly Moves Primary to June 2, but 1.2 Million Voters Still Shut Out

General Assembly and Governor Approve Bill to Move 2020 Primary

A Message from CEO David Thornburgh on the Challenges of the Times

February 25, 2020

All Voters Vote in HD 190 Special Election

February 03, 2020

Written Testimony on Bill 200015 and Resolution 200056

December 18, 2019

Seventy Supports Transparency Legislation For Interim Court Appointments

December 02, 2019

Written Testimony on Bill 190861 and Resolution 190874

November 26, 2019

Written Testimony on “Putting People First at City Hall”

October 31, 2019

City Council Passes Reform to Vacant Land Sale Process

October 31, 2019

Historic Election Reform Approved in Pennsylvania

October 23, 2019

Election Reform Package Should Move Forward

September 27, 2019

Statement on Philadelphia Voting System Controversy

Philadelphia, PA – With City Controller Rebecca Rhynhart’s investigation of Philadelphia’s selection process for new voting systems complete, the controversy wrapped around the chosen system seems primed to continue, as does the leadership vacuum that has persisted throughout.

September 18, 2019

Testimony on Redistricting Reform

Redistricting Reform Commission Releases Final Report

HARRISBURG, PA – The bipartisan Pennsylvania Redistricting Reform Commission released a final report today with recommendations to improve the process of creating legislative district boundaries. Governor Wolf signed an executive order last year creating the commission to explore ways Pennsylvania could curb gerrymandering and make redistricting fairer and nonpartisan.

Seventy Supports Wolf Administration Financing of New Voting Systems

HARRISBURG, PA – The Committee of Seventy applauds the Wolf administration’s order to issue a bond to cover the long-term investment in safe, secure voting systems. Counties around the state have taken responsible steps over the past year to procure new voting machines with voter-verified paper trails. Such equipment is essential to protect the integrity of our elections, and our local governments deserve this financial support for doing their part.

Open Primaries Legislation Approved by the Pennsylvania Senate

Open Primaries Legislation Advances in the Senate

Testimony on Citizen Engagement in the Redistricting Process

Draw the Lines PA | Citizen Engagement in the Redistricting Process | Written Testimony for the PA Redistricting Reform Commission

Primary Reform Picks Up Traction Ahead of May 21 Primary

Open Primaries PA to Press for Independents’ Right to Vote

Committee of Seventy Releases Philadelphia Resolution 1

February 20, 2019

City Commissioners Approve New Voting System for Philadelphia

January 29, 2019

Blue Ribbon Commission on Election Security Issues Final Report

December 12, 2018

State Hosting Expo on New Voting Systems

December 06, 2018

Committee of Seventy Supports the Call for a Review of City Land Sales

The Committee of Seventy is joining the call made this week by the Philadelphia Coalition for Affordable Communities for the City Controller to conduct a review of city land sales. Reporting by the Inquirer and Daily News confirm the continuation of City Council’s problematic role in land disposition, a longtime concern for Seventy.

November 29, 2018

Committee of Seventy Statement on the PA Redistricting Reform Commission

Harrisburg, PA – The Committee of Seventy applauds Governor Wolf for the Executive Order he issued today creating the Pennsylvania Redistricting Reform Commission. Furthermore, we are honored that the Governor asked our President and CEO, David Thornburgh to, chair this important group.

November 08, 2018

Philadelphia City Commissioner Offices on Ballot in 2019

October 30, 2018

Committee of Seventy Prepares for Election Day

PHILADELPHIA, PA – With polls opening Tuesday, November 6, the Committee of Seventy’s nonpartisan Voter Guide and Election Programs are ready to engage voters and improve the voting experience in the Philadelphia area. This year, Seventy is excited to include its WeVote app in the resources voters can leverage to make informed decisions at the polls.

October 11, 2018

Committee of Seventy Launches WeVote Initiative

PHILADELPHIA, PA – The Committee of Seventy, the nonpartisan civic leadership organization, announces the launch of WeVote, an initiative to promote a culture voting in the Greater Philadelphia region through engaging businesses, organizations, and communities and leveraging a new mobile app by MilkCrate.

September 17, 2018

Draw the Lines Project Launch

Draw the Lines PA (DTL) is barnstorming the state this fall to launch its three-year initiative to inform and engage Pennsylvanians around gerrymandering and democratic reform.

September 07, 2018

Committee of Seventy Names Six Buchholz Fellows

PHILADELPHIA, PA – The Committee of Seventy announced today the selection of its second cohort of Buchholz Fellows, six promising young Philadelphians who will spend a year as members of the Board of the century-old good government group.

Seventy welcomes student and educators back to school this week

The Committee of Seventy welcomes back to school this week students and educators across the City and the Commonwealth.

Seventy Supports a Free Press

The Committee of Seventy--one of the nation’s oldest political reform organizations--stands this week with editorial boards and commentators around the country in expressing deep concern about attacks on journalism and journalists, and applauds any and all efforts to push back on attempts to limit a free and independent news media.

Committee of Seventy Statement on Campaign for Redistricting Reform

Seventy deplores Harrisburg’s cynical, partisan inaction; urges frustrated voters not to give up on the fight for a better way

Seventy's Statement on Gov. Wolf's 21st Century Voting Reform Plan for PA

The Committee of Seventy welcomes Governor Wolf’s support of several proposals that would help ensure representative and accountable government in Pennsylvania. Campaign finance and redistricting reform, in particular, are urgently needed to prevent special interests from exerting undue influence on the political process and to begin rebuilding trust in our democracy.

Committee of Seventy Statement on SB 22 Amendment

The Committee of Seventy applauds Senate State Government Committee Chairs Mike Folmer (R-Lebanon) and Anthony Williams (D-Philadelphia) and their Senate State Government Committee colleagues for voting to approve today a compromise proposal that improves the redistricting process in Pennsylvania.

In Support of the Proposed Amendment to the Home Rule Charter Educational Supplement

What is the amendment about? City voters will decide on May 15 whether the so-called Educational Supplement to the Home Rule Charter dealing with the public school system will be amended in various parts. These changes would impact the nomination, appointment and removal process for Board of Education members and create a Parent and Community Advisory Council charged with “consult[ing] on issues pertaining to educational policy and family and community engagement in schools.”

Seventy Announces Release of 2018 Primary Election Resources

COMMITTEE OF SEVENTY ELECTION PROGRAM SET FOR MAY 15 PRIMARY ELECTION | Nonpartisan Voter Guide Expanded to All Five Counties

Senate State Government Committee Testimony on Redistricting Reform

Statement on HB 722 Amendment

Trust in government is at all-time lows. As polls have made clear, voters’ concern over the health of our democracy spans both the political spectrum and the Commonwealth.

Senate State Government Committee Testimony on Redistricting Reform

Seventy's Statement on the Supreme Court's Redistricting Case Dismissal

The Committee of Seventy is gratified that the federal judiciary has let stand the Pennsylvania Supreme Court ruling tossing out the state’s 2011 congressional map.

Seventy's Statement on Governor Wolf's Citizens First Ethics Plan

Governor Wolf’s statement of support for sweeping ethics and campaign finance reform is welcomed. If advanced, this move at long last could finally bring Pennsylvania’s transparency and accountability laws in line with other states.

February 28, 2018

Testimony on Philadelphia Tax Policy

by David Thornburgh, President and CEO, Committee of Seventy | Philadelphia City Council, Committee on Legislative Oversight

February 20, 2018

Seventy's Statement on the PA Supreme Court's Remedial Map

The Pennsylvania Supreme Court ruling tossing out the state’s 2011 congressional map was a welcome statement that gerrymandering can become so blatantly partisan and excessive that it violates the state Constitution.

January 22, 2018

Committee of Seventy Statement on PA Supreme Court Decision

December 04, 2017

Testimony on Proposed Fiscal Impact Statement Amendment

October 24, 2017

Testimony on Public Financing of Political Campaigns

by David Thornburgh, President and CEO | Testimony on Bill 170680 | Public Financing of Political Campaigns

September 14, 2017

Campaign for Election Reform and Modernization Will Continue Despite Commonwealth Court Decision

September 07, 2017

Committee of Seventy Names Five Buchholz Fellows

PHILADELPHIA, PA – The Committee of Seventy announced today the selection of five inaugural Buchholz Fellows, promising young Philadelphians who will spend a year as Board members of the century-old good government group.

Keystone Votes Coalition Report Indicates Thousands of Lost or Late Voter Registration Records in 2016

Committee of Seventy Election Program Set for May 16 Primary Election

Committee of Seventy Supports Best Value Procurement Amendment

BallotReady and Committee of Seventy to Pilot New Voter Tool for Philadelphia Elections in 2017

Voting Rights Advocates File Suit to Ensure Accountability in May Primary

Philadelphia, Pa. – Philadelphia 3.0, the Committee of Seventy and several candidates for elected office today filed a lawsuit asking the Pennsylvania Supreme Court to direct the President Judge of the Court of Common Pleas to replace Philadelphia’s City Commissioners with interim election officials for the May 2017 primary. The plaintiffs are represented by attorneys from the Public Interest Law Center and private counsel.

January 11, 2017

Committee of Seventy Board Elects Bret S. Perkins Chairman

(PHILADELPHIA, PA) The Committee of Seventy Board of Directors has elected Bret S. Perkins as Chairman. Mr. Perkins, who is Vice President of External & Government Affairs at Comcast Corporation, succeeds Dr. Stephen S. Tang CEO of the University City Science Center.

December 05, 2016

C70's Voter Experience Survey: Generally OK, but some long lines and inappropriate requests for voter ID

NOVEMBER 2016 VOTER EXPERIENCE SURVEY: GENERALLY OK, BUT SOME LONG LINES AND INAPPROPRIATE REQUESTS FOR VOTER IDENTIFICATION

November 04, 2016

Committee of Seventy's “Voices of Voting” Returns for One-Day Election Run

VOICES OF VOTING addresses youth voting rights and advocacy, Four Performances at University City’s Enterprise Center on November 7.

Written Comments on Redistricting Submitted to House State Government Committee

Philadelphians Trust Hillary Clinton Three Times as Often as They Do Donald Trump

(Philadelphia, PA, July 29, 2016): The Committee of Seventy, Philadelphia’s nonpartisan advocate for better government, and the Temple Institute for Survey Research released the results of a survey of Philadelphians today that found that they trust Hillary Clinton 53.8% of the time and Donald Trump only 14% of the time.

Broad Based Coalition Calls for City Council to Create a new Department of Elections

To be administered by Election Director appointed by the Mayor with oversight by appointed, bipartisan Philadelphia Board of Elections

What Apathetic Young Voters? Committee of Seventy’s High School Election Ambassador Program Grows by 50%

(Philadelphia, PA) More than 950 high-school students from 22 high schools in Philadelphia and Montgomery County are participating in Committee of Seventy’s expanded Election Ambassador Corps trainings this spring. That’s more than a 50% increase from the number who participated last fall. The students prepared to serve as Election Ambassadors more than 1,000 polling places near their homes on Pennsylvania’s Primary Day, April 26.

Committee of Seventy Launches Podcast Hosted by Chris Satullo

Titled 20 by Seventy, the monthly digital product will advance Seventy’s mission to make Philadelphia a more efficient, effective, and ethical city

January 22, 2016

Committee of Seventy Calls for an End to Elected City Commissioners

PHILADELPHIA, PA (January 21, 2016) – Committee of Seventy CEO David Thornburgh today released the following statement:

November 09, 2015

Committee of Seventy and Crowdpac Ballot Tool Drives Increased Engagement in 2015 Municipal Election

November 02, 2015

Philadelphia District Attorney's Election Fraud Task Force Is Prepared For Tomorrow's General Election

PHILADELPHIA (Nov. 2, 2015) - Philadelphia District Attorney R. Seth Williams today reminded voters to call the District Attorney’s Election Fraud Task Force if they experience any difficulty casting their ballot. The office’s hotline numbers are 215-686-9641,9643 or 9644. And, while joined by President and CEO of the Committee of Seventy David Thornburgh, he reminded all Philadelphians that they need to vote tomorrow.

October 06, 2015

Seventy, Philadelphia 3.0, 5th Square and Philly Set Go submit records request for information about City Commissioner Clark

PHILADELPHIA- Four civic leadership organizations committed to fair elections and good governance filed requests for information about City Commissioner Anthony Clark on Tuesday.

September 29, 2015

Committee of Seventy and Crowdpac Announce Philadelphia Election Collaboration

Testimony on Proposed Campaign Finance Disclosure Rules

February 09, 2015

Committee of Seventy Releases 2015 Integrity Agenda For Mayoral and City Council Candidates

October 28, 2014

NON-PARTISAN VOLUNTEERS READY TO HELP VOTERS ON TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 4

WHAT: The Committee of Seventy has recruited and trained 150 non-partisan volunteers to help Pennsylvania voters on November 4, 2014. Representatives of the media are urged to remind Philadelphians with questions about voting, or who experience problems at the polls, to call Seventy’s NEW dedicated elections hotline at 1-855-SEVENTY (1-855-738-3689).

October 27, 2014

Killing PGW Deal Cowardly and an Affront to City Taxpayers

PHILADELPHIA – October 27, 2014 – The Committee of Seventy called Philadelphia City Council’s unilateral decision today to kill a proposed $1.86 billion sale of the Philadelphia Gas Works without a public hearing an affront to the taxpayers of Philadelphia.

October 24, 2014

City Council's Stonewalling on PGW Proposal “Reprehensible”

PHILADELPHIA – October 24, 2014 – The Committee of Seventy today accused Philadelphia City Council of stonewalling to kill the proposed $1.86 billion sale of the Philadelphia Gas Works.

October 22, 2014

Committee of Seventy Names David B. Thornburgh as New CEO

PHILADELPHIA – October 22, 2014 – The Committee of Seventy has named David B. Thornburgh as the organization’s new Chief Executive Officer, the Board of Directors announced Wednesday, Oct. 22, 2014. Thornburgh assumes the position vacated by Zack Stalberg who retired in July. He will officially join the Committee of Seventy in December 2014.

October 09, 2014

Seventy Urges City Commissioner Anthony Clark Not to Seek Reelection in 2015

October 07, 2014

City Taxpayers Deserve Permanent Inspector General

September 17, 2014

Testimony on Proposed Regulation No. 1

September 02, 2014

SEVENTY LAUNCHES NEW 1-855-SEVENTY HOTLINE

Seventy Urges Permanent City Police Advisory Commission

Ellen Mattleman Kaplan To Become Seventy’s Interim President and CEO

PHILADELPHIA – June 26, 2014 – Ellen Mattleman Kaplan has been named Interim President and Chief Executive Officer of the Committee of Seventy, the Philadelphia-based independent watchdog organization.

Testimony on Proposed Charter Amendment to Abolish the School Reform Commission

Testimony on Proposed Gifts Ordinance

Seventy Calls Immediate Public Hearing on PGW Sale “Imperative”

Committee of Seventy's Zack Stalberg leaving Seventy and Philadelphia

PHILADELPHIA – June 3, 2014 – The Committee of Seventy today announced the retirement of its President and CEO, Zack Stalberg.

SEVENTY URGES PUBLIC HEARING ON PGW SALE

Make Sure You're Ready to Vote on May 20, Says Seventy

Testimony on the Publication of Notices on Phila.Gov

Testimony on Proposed Prisons Charter Amendment

Philadelphia City Council | Committee on Law and Government | Bill Nos. 140014 and 140015; Resolution No. 140035

Testimony on Gifts Rules in Pennsylvania

Campaign Contribution Limits to City Candidates Preserved: U.S. Supreme Court’s campaign finance ruling has no local impact

PHILADELPHIA – January 23, 2014 –The Committee of Seventy expressed relief that a U.S. Supreme Court ruling issued today does not impact caps on contributions to most candidates elected by Philadelphia voters.

Seventy Urges Probe by Independent Counsel of Sting Operation and Dismissal

PHILADELPHIA – March 17, 2014 –The Committee of Seventy today urged the Pennsylvania General Assembly to quickly allow for the creation of an independent counsel to conduct a fair and non-partisan investigation into a dismissed three-year sting operation that allegedly captured on tape four state Representatives taking money from an undercover informant. The operation, which also involved a former Philadelphia Traffic Court judge accepting a bracelet, was reported by The Philadelphia Inquirer yesterday.

February 06, 2014

Testimony submitted to the National Commission on Voting Rights

January 23, 2014

Seventy Urges No Appeal of Ruling Striking Down PA’s Voter ID Law

Says PA should comply with spirit of bi-partisan Presidential Commission on Election Administration’s report by making voting easier

November 22, 2013

Testimony on Proposed Charter Amendment to Eliminate Resign to Run for Elected Officials

November 20, 2013

Testimony on Proposed Regulation No. 10

October 28, 2013

Testimony on Land Bank Legislation

September 04, 2013

Testimony submitted to the Presidential Commission on Election Administration

Public Comment on Resolution No. 120539

February 02, 2012

Testimony on Statewide Campaign Finance Reform Presented to the Senate Democratic Policy Committee

Committee of Seventy

123 S. Broad Street, Suite 2830
Philadelphia, PA 19109

The Committee of Seventy is a nonpartisan civic leadership organization that advances representative, ethical and effective government in Philadelphia and Pennsylvania through citizen engagement and public policy advocacy.