Pennsylvania’s Democratic judges survive conservative ouster push in landmark election

Big money lost, and voters won. How a grassroots surge saved Pennsylvania’s courts—and what it means for the battle over fair elections.

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2025 November 6 . 9:10 AM

1 min read

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Pennsylvania’s Democratic judges survive conservative ouster push in landmark election

In a significant victory for environmental groups, three Democratic judges in Pennsylvania's Supreme Court retained their seats in Tuesday's elections, despite a well-funded conservative effort to remove them. The retention elections, typically low-key affairs, saw an unprecedented level of engagement from environmental groups. Democratic and liberal organisations successfully countered the conservative campaign, which was heavily funded by wealthy donors. Yaheiry Mora, Political Director of Earthjustice Action Pennsylvania IEC, praised voters for rejecting the influence of these donors. 'Voters have sent a clear message that they want qualified judges, not those influenced by big money,' Mora stated. The names of the three victorious judges have not been specified. The retention of the three Democratic judges is a major win for environmental groups and a testament to voters' commitment to fair and independent judiciary. The results indicate a shift in the typically low-key judicial retention elections, with increased engagement from various groups.