Special Elections, Texting the Governor & Why It’s So Hard To Vote in PA
It’s the Friday news roundup! Pittsburgh had on impact on the whole dang state when we elected a new representative this week; Pennsylvanians will be automatically registered to vote at the DMV; our five most recent former governors would love to open our primary elections; the “revolving door” for lawmakers to become lobbyists is an increasing problem in Harrisburg; and Gov. Josh Shapiro opened a text line for constituents — if you have an iPhone.
We’re with Stephen Caruso of SpotlightPA and Kim Lyons, the new executive editor of the Pennsylvania Capitol-Star.
We love to cite our sources:
- Stephen did a great summation of the 21st House District race
- Kim shared the new motor voter law for The Pennsylvania Capitol-Star
- Stephen points out for SpotlightPA that PennDOT isn’t exactly set up to absorb the change
- SpotlightPA’s Kate Huangpu reported on PA’s most recent five governors' shared letter in support of open primaries
- You can text Gov. Josh Shapiro at 717-788-8990 through the app Community
- Current state law bars elected officials and employees from lobbying their previous workplaces for a year, and Stephen reports there’s a bipartisan bill to extend the ban to two years
Want some more Pittsburgh news?
- Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter.
- We’re also on Instagram @CityCastPgh!
- Not a fan of social? Then leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893.
Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.
Subscribe To Our Newsletter

Stay connected to City Cast Pittsburgh and get ready to join the local conversation.
Latest Episodes
Mid-Century Sleepover, Tiki Cruise & More Pittsburgh Milestone Birthday Ideas

What To Eat (and Avoid) at PNC Park
Let's be honest, the Pirates aren't always the main draw at PNC Park. Many of us go for the views, the pierogi race, and inventive ballpa...

7 Ideas To Make Voting Better in PA
Our primary election is just around the corner on May 19, so it feels like a good time to take stock of how well our voting process actua...

'Your City Could Be Better': Philly's Bold Nightlife Experiment — Presented By City Cast Pittsburgh
Pittsburghers, would your city be better if the bars stayed open later? This summer, Philadelphia is anticipating a record-breaking numbe...

Shapiro v. Chatbots, Market Square Curfew & Summer Music Fests
Gov. Josh Shapiro is suing Character.AI, saying its chatbots are posing as doctors and offering medical advice. Executive producer Mallor...

Green Chile Queso, Gumbo & More New Pittsburgh Food & Drink
So many new restaurants are popping up in Pittsburgh this spring, each fulfilling a specific craving. Longing for gumbo and jambalaya coo...

10 Essential Rules for Surviving Pittsburgh
Pittsburghers have a lot of pride in our city, including our weird quirks and unwritten rules. Like why do neighbors keep putting old fol...

Where To Get Brunch in Pittsburgh
Whether you're celebrating Mother's Day this Sunday or just want a weekend treat, there are so many great brunch options in Pittsburgh. P...

Could Pittsburgh Host the Super Bowl?
Pittsburgh just proved we're able to throw a great party for the NFL Draft. Could the Super Bowl be next? Host Megan Harris talks with Se...

Draft Takeaways, Improving Traffic Enforcement & Punxsy Phil’s First Pitch
Pittsburgh survived the NFL Draft! Executive producer Mallory Falk, interim social media manager Laura Tsutsui, and contributor Colin Wil...

