Pennsylvania
Coverage of Pennsylvania in the Nexus archive.
- How Josh Shapiro and Stacy Garrity stack up on election issues
Incumbent Gov. Josh Shapiro has based many of his policy stances on elections in opposition to President Donald Trump, while facing difficulty passing new election laws through the state legislature. His Republican challenger, Stacy Garrity, indicated she would defer to Trump’s election priorities, but her views regarding the legitimacy of the 2020 election remain controversial, despite attempts to walk back previous comments.
- Democrats narrow list of 2028 DNC convention sites to Philadelphia, Boston and Denver
Democrats narrowed their potential host cities for the 2028 presidential convention to Boston, Denver, and Philadelphia. Democratic National Committee Chairman Ken Martin stated that the selected cities put forward “incredibly strong bids,” while Republicans have already chosen Houston for their convention site. The party is also looking at this year’s midterm elections as a chance to gain control of Congress.
- From McDonald’s to Congress: can a former fry cook flip a key district for Democrats?
Manny Rutinel hopes price-tag politics can win voters in a Colorado House race. During his campaign, Donald Trump staged a photo op at a McDonald's franchise in Pennsylvania while making claims about Kamala Harris’s past job there. This posturing capitalized on an affordability crisis triggered by high inflation after the Covid pandemic.
- Pilot killed, 2 State Police troopers injured in midair crash at Carlisle, Pennsylvania airport
A small airplane and a helicopter collided midair near an airport in Carlisle, Pennsylvania, on Wednesday evening. The incident resulted in the death of a pilot and injuries to two State Police troopers.
- Pilot killed, 2 State Police troopers injured in midair crash at Carlisle, Pennsylvania airport
A small airplane and a helicopter collided midair near an airport in Carlisle, Pennsylvania, on Wednesday evening. The collision resulted in one pilot being killed and two State Police troopers sustaining injuries.
- Pilot killed, 2 State Police troopers injured in midair crash at Carlisle, Pennsylvania airport
A midair collision involving a small airplane and a helicopter occurred near an airport in Carlisle, Pennsylvania. The incident resulted in the death of one pilot and injuries to two State Police troopers.
- Pilot killed, 2 State Police troopers injured in midair crash at Carlisle, Pennsylvania airport
A midair crash involving a small airplane and a helicopter occurred near an airport in Carlisle, Pennsylvania. The incident resulted in the death of a pilot and injuries to two State Police troopers.
- Democrats narrow their list of 2028 presidential convention sites to Boston, Denver and Philadelphia
The Democrats have narrowed their selection for the 2028 presidential convention to Boston, Denver, and Philadelphia. This comes as the party prepares for a primary after President Donald Trump, while Republicans have already chosen Houston for their 2028 site. A final decision on the location is expected later this year.
- Democrats narrow their list of 2028 presidential convention sites to Boston, Denver and Philadelphia
Democrats have narrowed their list of potential host cities for the 2028 presidential convention to Boston, Denver, and Philadelphia. A final decision is expected later this year, while Republicans have already chosen Houston for their 2028 convention site.
- One monthly bill Americans can’t avoid is quietly surging thanks to emerging industry: data
The rapid expansion of AI data centers is projected to significantly increase electricity costs for American households due to immense energy demand. Research from the Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas estimates that existing facilities have already raised average wholesale electricity prices by 2% to 6%. These issues are becoming a central point of debate, prompting various state officials to tighten oversight and regulation.
- One monthly bill Americans can’t avoid is quietly surging thanks to emerging industry: data
The rapid expansion of AI data centers is projected by the Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas to increase electricity costs for American households. Researchers estimate that existing data centers have already raised wholesale electricity prices 2% to 6%, with potential cost increases up to 20% to 30% higher by 2028 compared to a scenario without new data centers. The growing strain on the power grid has become a central political debate, leading states like Texas and Pennsylvania to scrutinize or halt large-scale development projects.
- Pilot Is Killed After Small Plane and Police Helicopter Collide in Pennsylvania
A collision occurred between a small plane and a police helicopter in Pennsylvania. The crash resulted in the death of the pilot and injured two Pennsylvania State Police troopers at Carlisle Airport.
- Pennsylvania catches fraud — Minnesota makes excuses
The article asserts that con artists are widespread across various locations. It suggests that while fraud is everywhere, states differ significantly in their official response to such incidents. Specific examples mentioned include Pennsylvania catching fraud and Minnesota making excuses.
- As Pa. measles cases persist, back-to-school vaccine efforts ramp up
As measles cases persist in Pennsylvania, officials released a new school immunization dashboard allowing public viewing of vaccination rates by individual school. The data shows that while overall coverage was high last year, some schools fall significantly below the 95% rate required for strong community immunity. State health authorities hope this transparency helps pinpoint gaps and barriers to boost vaccination efforts.
- Complaint alleges conservative activist Scott Presler violated campaign finance law
A watchdog group filed a complaint alleging that conservative activist Scott Presler and his political action committee, Early Vote Action, may have violated Pennsylvania campaign finance law during the 2025 election. The allegation concerns the failure to disclose sources of revenue or detailed expenditures as required by state law while campaigning for state Supreme Court retention judges.
- Shapiro signs order restricting data centers in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro signed an executive order that could restrict AI data center development in the Keystone State. The order implements his Governor’s Responsible Infrastructure Development (GRID) requirements. These safeguards require prospective developers to provide a notice of intent to comply, including mandated payments.
- 14 charged in alleged drug trafficking operation at Penn State University fraternities
Fourteen individuals were charged in an alleged drug trafficking operation at Penn State University fraternities. The arrests involved former students and fraternity members, according to Pennsylvania Attorney General Dave Sunday's announcement regarding "Operation Drugs Unlimited."
- 14 charged in alleged drug trafficking operation at Penn State University fraternities
Fourteen individuals were charged in an alleged drug trafficking operation conducted at Penn State University fraternities. Pennsylvania Attorney General Dave Sunday announced that these arrests were part of "Operation Drugs Unlimited," involving former students and fraternity members.
- 14 charged in alleged drug trafficking operation at Penn State University fraternities
Fourteen individuals were charged in an alleged drug trafficking operation at Penn State University fraternities. Former students and fraternity members were arrested as part of 'Operation Drugs Unlimited.' Pennsylvania Attorney General Dave Sunday announced the operation.
- Pa. Game Commission to end Deputy Game Warden program
The Pennsylvania Game Commission is ending its Deputy Game Warden program on September 1, affecting approximately 140 wardens across the state. These part-time or volunteer workers assist with law enforcement patrols and wildlife control. The decision stems from a goal of establishing a full-time professional workforce and follows a ruling by the Pennsylvania Supreme Court regarding warrantless searches in "open fields."
- Pa. lawmakers propose guardrails on automatic license plate cameras as backlash grows
Pennsylvania lawmakers proposed measures to regulate automatic license plate readers (ALPRs) and the data they gather. Following reports of officers misusing the technology for stalking, Flock Safety announced it would shorten its default system storage period from 30 days to seven days. The article noted that police officer Michael McSherry pleaded guilty after being accused of using a similar system to stalk an ex-partner.
- Swing-state's fraud reckoning raises Minnesota-style alarm as wild schemes exposed
The DOJ conducted a sweeping anti-fraud bust of Medicaid scofflaws in Pennsylvania, which spends $8 billion on Medicaid home-care services. The busts targeted individuals who billed for services under dubious circumstances, including while driving or when they were incarcerated. These actions draw comparisons to fraud scandals that have occurred in Minnesota.
- Swing-state's fraud reckoning raises Minnesota-style alarm as wild schemes exposed
The DOJ's anti-fraud task force executed a sweeping bust of Medicaid fraud in Pennsylvania, where the state spends $8 billion on home-care services. These busts were compared to past scandals in Minnesota, highlighting criminal activity taking money from individuals who need help. Defendants faced charges related to billing for services allegedly provided during moving violations or while they were driving for a rideshare company.
- Philadelphia tattoo artists, zookeepers team up to support bats
Pennsylvania Bat Conservation and Rehabilitation partnered with tattoo artists and zoo keepers for a flash-tattoo fundraiser to support local bats. The event highlighted that bats are crucial natural pest control agents and pollinators whose loss has been linked by studies to increased infant mortality. The rescue group demonstrated their care of rescued bats, such as Bunny and Zuri.
- Rehoboth Beach elects first openly gay mayor, the resort town’s first female leader in decades
Susan Stewart was elected mayor of Rehoboth Beach by a wide margin, making her the first openly gay mayor and the resort town's first female leader in decades. During her campaign, she focused on preserving the physical charm and character of Rehoboth Beach amid expanding growth and tourism. Stewart also previously served on the city’s Planning Commission and various task forces.
- Some gamblers are buying losing lottery tickets on eBay as a way offset taxes on their gambling wins
Some people are listing worthless losing lottery tickets on eBay, sometimes for explicitly promoting tax deductions. Accounting professor Jeffrey Hoopes stated that such an effort is a clear example of potential tax fraud. While IRS regulations allow losses to be deducted only by filers who itemize and keep records, the sale of these tickets raises questions about proper use.
- Pa. poised to lead in quantum computing field, state lawmakers hear
Pennsylvania was identified as being well positioned to lead breakthroughs in computing, specifically quantum technology, according to state lawmakers. To accelerate innovation, the commonwealth's seven top-level research universities formed the Keystone AI + Quantum Factory to build a statewide ecosystem, involving institutions like UPenn and Pitt.
- More data center proposals keep coming to Pennsylvania. So does the outcry.
Data center proposals are increasing across Pennsylvania, generating public outcry and sparking a growing discourse documented by an activist-led Facebook group with over 41,000 members. A poll found that 74% of voters oppose having a data center built in their community, highlighting the issue's increased concern following announcements like Amazon's $20 billion investment.
- Pennsylvania confronts an unfamiliar climate hazard: Wildfire smoke
Wildfire smoke from sources like Ontario, Canada, caused unhealthy air pollution levels across Washington, D.C., and Lititz, Pennsylvania. Due to high Air Quality Index readings, childcare centers were forced to keep children indoors. This recurring hazard marks a new reality for places in Pennsylvania that must adapt as wildfire smoke becomes a common summer threat.
- COVID funding provided underfunded Philly-area schools with laptops. ‘RAMageddon’ might send them back in time
Upper Darby School District lacked technology before the pandemic, but Congress allocated $13.2 billion through the Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief Fund (ESSER) to help districts mitigate COVID-19 impacts. This funding allowed Upper Darby to provide every student with a laptop or Chromebook, aiding in educational continuity.
- More data center proposals keep coming to Pennsylvania. So does the outcry.
The proposal of new data centers is increasing across Pennsylvania, triggering public outcry and significant resistance documented by activist groups. Polling revealed that 74% of voters oppose having a data center built in their community, an issue whose importance has risen rapidly due to factors including Amazon's $20 billion infrastructure investment. The state's political landscape has been altered by this growing concern over technological impact.
- How new SNAP restrictions could hit Greater Pittsburgh’s food access and economy
New federal policy changes are reportedly making participation in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) more difficult for low-income families. In Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, SNAP benefits have decreased by about 12% since 2025, while new work requirements have expanded to include adults up to age 64. These shifts come as grocery prices have increased significantly, outpacing wage growth.
- Are movie theaters getting too loud? Viewers, audiologists in the Philadelphia region consider sound exposure in film
Richard Whiteford expressed concern over extremely high decibel levels, reporting readings of 110.2 dBs from a movie theater near West Chester, PA. Audiologist Frank Wartinger advised that while movie theater volume is generally safe in most cases, consistent exposure to harmful sound levels can lead to noise-induced hearing loss, which he noted is one of the most preventable public health concerns.
- The water sector just got it’s wake-up call. Again.
The FBI and EPA issued a joint alert concerning cyberattacks against programmable logic controllers (PLCs) at water and wastewater utilities in multiple states. These attacks successfully exploited exposed, often outdated equipment, leading to operational degradations such as pressure loss and systems reverting to manual control. Experts note that preventative measures are cost-effective, requiring securing remote access through gateways and implementing strong passwords.
- Former Virginia Gov. Youngkin launches new conservative policy group
Former Virginia Gov. Glenn Youngkin is launching a conservative policy group called Empowering America’s Parents to promote the Education Freedom Tax Credit. The group plans to target 20 states, including Michigan, Arizona, Wisconsin, and Pennsylvania, with a campaign to raise awareness about the tax credit program, which allows taxpayers to donate up to $1,700 for scholarships.
- Wawa to open three more Middle Tennessee stores in 2026. Here’s what you need to know
Wawa will open three new stores in Dickson, Lebanon, and Murfreesboro, Tennessee, by mid-September 2026, expanding its state presence. The chain plans up to seven stores by 2026 and over 50 in the next decade, with each location projected to create 35 jobs and requiring $7.5 million in investment.
- QVC Group: Q2 Earnings Snapshot
QVC Group Inc. reported a $40 million loss in its second quarter, with a per-share loss of $4.93, despite generating $2 billion in revenue. The company, based in West Chester, Pennsylvania, released the earnings update on Tuesday.
- AI is getting better at election facts, but voters shouldn’t rely on it
AI is increasingly used by voters and political campaigns in the 2026 midterm elections, with tools like chatbots and deepfakes becoming common. While AI systems have improved in accuracy for basic election facts, experts caution they remain unreliable as primary sources of information. A study found error rates in AI responses dropped to zero by 2026, but concerns persist about completeness and reliability.
- ‘Your days are numbered’: DOJ, federal agencies target health care fraud, Medicaid schemers in Pennsylvania
The U.S. Department of Justice and federal agencies are intensifying investigations into health care fraud in Pennsylvania, including a new strike force in Philadelphia targeting Medicaid fraud. Nineteen people have been charged with defrauding Medicaid of over $4 million through home health care schemes.
- Pennsylvania joins states asking Supreme Court to block Trump administration’s mail ballot rules
Pennsylvania and other states are asking the U.S. Supreme Court to block the Trump administration’s executive order requiring federal agencies to verify voter eligibility and handle mail ballots. The order, which states call legally indefensible, would force states to redesign election materials weeks before the midterm election, risking voter disenfranchisement.