WITF News Stories

Stelson refused a debate; Douglas refused to guarantee Stelson an endorsement should she win the primary.

Bhutan is accepting then re-deporting refugees, making them stateless and homeless in India and Nepal.

Pa. Secretary of State Al Schmidt on election integrity and access

Automatic voter registration helps sign up rural voters

Over 1,000 protest Trump at Pennsylvania Capitol

Local governments are seeing more challenges to their decisions not to release public records. Some people are turning to ChatGPT, Claude and other artificial intelligence systems for help in making their case. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Lancaster and York county law enforcement agencies who partner with Immigration and Customs Enforcement say they are not interested in a targeted operation in the area.  WITF’s Jordan Wilkie reports on newly released records showing ICE sought a local surge. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Pennsylvania’s education secretary says her office is preparing to help schools adopt a complete cell phone ban for students. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Pennsylvania voters are growing increasingly critical of President Donald Trump’s handling of immigration policy, according to the latest Franklin and Marshall College Poll.  Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Handling of the economy has long been considered a strong suit for the Republican Party. A new poll suggests the economy might now be one of the party’s weaknesses heading into this year’s midterms. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It took answering just one question for Pennsylvania Treasurer Stacy Garrity to secure President Donald Trump’s coveted endorsement in this year’s governor's race. That’s according to an audio recording obtained by W-I-T-F of Garrity recounting the story at a Republican fundraiser. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

State officials are looking to curb Pennsylvania's ongoing outbreak of bird flu — the worst it’s  seen in decades. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Lancaster’s sheriff is facing public pressure to end his office’s cooperation with Immigration and Customs Enforcement.  WITF’s Jordan Wilkie reports that in the city widely known as America’s refugee capital, residents want ICE out.  Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Many state employees’ conversations with artificial intelligence will likely remain shielded from public view — following a ruling this month from Pennsylvania’s open records agency.  Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Republicans in the U.S. House of Representatives are pushing major election reforms before the midterms. WITF’s Jordan Wilkie talks with Votebeat editor Nathaniel Rakich who is following this story. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Republicans in the U.S. House of Representatives are pushing major election reforms before the midterms. WITF’s Jordan Wilkie spoke with Votebeat managing editor Nathaniel Rakich about the bill and why Republicans are trying to push this long-shot bill now.  Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Harrisburg singer-songwriter Olivia Elizabeth Basar stopped by the studio to perform two songs and talk about the difficulty she had in just getting started. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The state Republican Party is throwing its weight behind western Pennsylvania attorney Jason Richey in his bid for lieutenant governor. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Republican gubernatorial candidate Stacy Garrity says she would cooperate with President Donald Trump’s administration in running Pennsylvania’s elections. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Republican Congressman Lloyd Smucker of Lancaster and York counties is suing Lancaster’s newspaper.  WITF’s Jordan Wilkie reports Smucker is seeking $250,000 in damages. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Governor Josh Shapiro is pitching lawmakers a fifty-three-point-three billion-dollar state budget. Increasing public school funding is the big-ticket item. But it’s not the only school policy he has in mind.  Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Republicans in the state Senate say that Governor Josh Shapiro’s budget proposal would threaten Pennsylvania’s financial future if enacted. Among their biggest concerns is pulling money out of the state’s emergency funds.  Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Independent and third-party voters are the fastest-growing voting bloc in Pennsylvania. These voters are barred from participating in the commonwealth’s primaries. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Pennsylvania’s 67 counties are once again urging state lawmakers to increase funding for technology and staff needed to answer 9-1-1 calls. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

President Donald Trump’s Department of Homeland Security is claiming a newfound authority to enter some immigrant’s homes without a warrant signed by a judge.  WITF’s Jordan Wilkie reports Pennsylvania legal experts call the move unconstitutional. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Pennsylvania lawmakers and consumer advocates are blaming new data centers for rising home energy prices. WITF’s Jaxon White reports from a policy hearing in the state Capitol. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

State Democrats have successfully won more public school funding in the past few state budgets — against pushback from some Republicans. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Pennsylvania hemp business leaders are embracing statewide calls to regulate their products in the face of an upcoming federal ban. State lawmakers expect to consider restrictions sometime this year.  Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Republican gubernatorial candidate Stacy Garrity says rural Pennsylvania should embrace the data center boom. Polling shows voters may not be so interested.  Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Democrats are hoping Governor Josh Shapiro’s bid for reelection this year will drive wins in other key races. WITF’s Jaxon White reports Shapiro is embracing that call to arms.  Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Former Republican gubernatorial nominee Doug Mastriano says he is NOT running for the party’s nomination this year. His announcement comes after he’s teased a potential run for months.  Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A Lancaster County man says Elon Musk owes him money for convincing voters to sign the billionaire’s voter petition ahead of the 20-24 election. The case could reach class action status with more than 100 people signed on. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Democrats nationwide are rejecting President Donald Trump’s seizure of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife. Governor Josh Shapiro is joining those criticisms.  Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

State lawmakers agree that they’ll need to reestablish the twenty-four-hour window for local public agencies to change their meeting agendas.  Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A central Pennsylvania bio-lab is planning its largest expansion yet. Eurofins Lancaster Laboratories will build a new three-hundred-thousand-square-foot facility at its New Holland campus. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Political candidates are leaning on artificial intelligence to take increasingly pointed — and sometimes misleading — shots at their rivals. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Trump administration is pushing new nuclear energy projects to power the ongoing race to advance artificial intelligence. Three Mile Island is at the center of that goal.  Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The White House is touting the strength of the nation’s economy, despite data showing Americans remain concerned about inflation and job security. Vice President JD Vance is the latest Trump administration official to tout a rosy economic outlook in Pennsylvania.  Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Pennsylvania Attorney General Dave Sunday says he’ll defend the state’s artificial intelligence laws in court — even if that means challenging President Donald Trump’s administration. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Pa. Gov. Josh Shapiro and Ut. Gov. Spencer Cox jointly condemn political violence

Lawmakers are digging into Gov. Josh Shapiro’s use of the state plane, and the one million dollars in security upgrades at his private residence following the attempt on his life this year.  Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Pennsylvania election officials are calling for reform to voter registration drives.  WITF’s Jordan Wilkie reports some registration groups parachute in during presidential election years and cause headaches for elections offices and voters alike. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

An interview with Lancaster progressive band Samaritan Snare. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Chicago priest walks across Pennsylvania during 800-mile protest against immigration enforcement under President Donald Trump

Protesters take to Pa. Capitol, call for ban on gifts to lawmakers

Mechanicsburg leaders, residents rally for inclusion after hate group spreads fliers

An interview with Central Pennsylvania hockey-themed band Light the Lamp. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mike Tyson is best known for his career as a legendary heavyweight boxer. But he’s also making a name for himself in the pot industry. "Iron Mike" is lobbying for recreational marijuana in Pennsylvania.  Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Pennsylvania officials are scrambling to address an expected rise in food insecurity. That’s because President Donald Trump’s administration paused the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program in November. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The clock is ticking for Congress to extend health care subsidies before open enrollment begins on Nov. 1. The head of Pa.’s health insurance marketplace is sounding the alarm.  Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Consumer advocates are sounding the alarm over data centers spiking energy costs in Pennsylvania. Residents are already paying the price.  Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Pennsylvania is approaching four months without having a spending plan. And Senate Republicans are doubling down on their effort to fund the state at last year’s levels.  Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

State senators are working toward banning students from using cell phones during the school day. Support for such a ban is building in the Capitol. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Gov. Josh Shapiro says congressional Democrats are right to withhold their votes for any budget deal that doesn’t extend Obamacare subsidies slated to expire this year.  Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Nearly two million Pennsylvanians won’t receive their November food assistance benefits, as the federal budget standoff continues in Washington. The U.S. Department of Agriculture ordered states to halt Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program payments until Congress enacts a spending plan. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Pennsylvanians are in a unique position. They lack both a state and federal budget as Republican and Democratic lawmakers have reached gridlock in negotiations. Unions representing government workers are raising concerns over staffing.  Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Pennsylvania is now 100 days without a state budget, yet lawmakers appear no closer to reaching a deal. Frustrations are mounting in the Capitol. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Politics and economic uncertainty put Pa. LGBT centers at risk of closing

Pa. Attorney General Sunday launches expanded mental health diversion program

Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro is stepping onto the international stage.  WITF’s Jaxon White reports a partnership among eight U.S. governors and two premiers of Canadian provinces last weekend elected Shapiro to be its leader for a two-year term. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Layoffs, cuts, closures are inevitable without Pa. budget, nonprofits warn lawmakers

State House lawmakers approved background checks to purchase any type of firearm in Pennsylvania. WITF’s Jaxon White reports the proposal passed Tuesday faces long odds of passing the state Senate. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

‘We’ll be prepared’: Gov. Josh Shapiro explains impact of federal shutdown on Pa.

Planned Parenthood Keystone operating without Medicaid funds

Democrats say Pennsylvania’s richest man is trying to buy the outcome of the state’s Supreme Court retention race this year.  WITF’s Jaxon White reports from a protest outside the offices of TikTok investor Jeffrey Yass. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Thousands of anti-abortion advocates gather on Pa. Capitol steps for annual March for Life rally

Lawmakers are looking for ways to combat depression, anxiety and post-traumatic stress — especially among veterans and first responders.  WITF’s Jaxon White reports state House members are considering psychedelics as a potential treatment. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Pennsylvania’s governor Josh Shapiro says President Donald Trump and his allies are making partisan claims about who is responsible for political violence in America. WITF’s Jordan Wilkie reports on Shapiro’s call for bi-partisan denunciation of political violence. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Unclear how much Pa. stands to gain from feds’ $50 billion rural hospital program

Pennsylvania's new Hemp & Cannabis Guild hopes to unite growers and retailers under a single advocacy banner. WITF's Jaxon White reports on the aspirations of the group's 30 members across the state.  Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The vast majority of Americans reject political violence.  Studies show 98 percent of Americans across the political spectrum do not support murder as a political tool, like the killing of Charlie Kirk, a conservative political activist. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Seven Lancaster County Mennonites are out of jail after protesting in the U-S Capitol over the war in Gaza.  WITF’s Jordan Wilkie reports the Pennsylvanians joined over 100 protestors from Virginia and neighboring states.  Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Constitutionality of mail-ballot date requirement raised before Pa. Supreme Court

Pennsylvania is in its third month without a state budget, pausing payments for schools, counties and various human services. WITF’s Jaxon White reports that Democrats and Republicans are insisting they’re close to finding agreement. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Pa. Supreme Court justices defend impartiality in forum, as GOP seeks their ouster in November

York assault creates call for hate crime reform in Pa.

Senate fight stalls confirmation of Trump’s pick as top prosecutor in eastern Pa.

Control of Pennsylvania’s highest court is at stake this November 4th, as voters decide whether to retain three Democratic Supreme Court justices. WITF’s Jaxon White reports supporters point to their impartial rulings and endorsement from the nonpartisan Pennsylvania Bar Association.  Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Pa. lawmakers look underground for nuclear alternative to cool data centers

Public agencies in Pennsylvania spend millions on private lobbying to influence state government and secure state grants. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Pa. Sen. Doug Mastriano says he has ‘grassroots’ support as party lines up behind opponent

Experts say Department of Homeland Security undermines credibility in hiring Pa. elections activist

Gov. Josh Shapiro said Republican leaders are intentionally stalling budget negotiations for political points ahead of his expected bid for reelection next year. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The head of Pennsylvania's largest teachers union on Tuesday blamed the Senate’s top leader for delaying millions owed to school districts across the state. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

President Donald Trump says he wants to get rid of voting by mail and voting machines. WITF’s Jordan Wilkie reports some of Pennsylvania’s congressional Republicans say they like the idea, but election rules are set by states, not the president.  Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dozens of children and teens now know how to write and record audio stories thanks to summer camps at Harrisburg's public radio station. WITF's Karen Hendricks reports on the stories produced by journalism's next generation.  Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Attorney General Dave Sunday weighs new mental health diversion program for Pa. counties

Next year’s midterm races in Pennsylvania will play a key role in the fight over the U.S. House majority next year.  WITF’s Jaxon White reports Republicans and Democrats are laying the groundwork to reach rural voters. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Republican State Treasurer Stacy Garrity is running for governor in 2026.  WITF’s Jaxon White has more on her announcement. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In-home care agencies say wage increase unlikely under Pa. budget proposals

Pa. steps in to provide LGBTQ+ crisis care after federal funding ends

Lawmakers continue to say they’re progressing on reaching a state budget deal.  WITF’s Jaxon White reports their actions say otherwise. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Messianic Jews, small but increasingly influential group among pro-Trump Christians, share beliefs at annual gathering at Messiah University

Mass transit funding, Medicaid payments, and taxing games of skill are among the many issues holding up state budget negotiations this year. WITF’s Jaxon White reports Senate Republicans want to pass a temporary spending plan. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Freshwater managers are warning the millions of gallons of water data centers use every day could stress public water supplies. WITF’s Jaxon White reports the new facilities are being built around Pennsylvania to power the growth of artificial intelligence. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

House Democrats are looking to meet the service cut deadline set by Philadelphia’s main public transportation agency. WITF’s Jaxon White reports the House has passed several funding bills this year that the Senate hasn’t considered. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Partisan pushes to redraw Congressional districts in favor of political parties have rocked state Capitols nationwide.  WITF’s Jaxon White reports Pennsylvania has largely dodged the controversy. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Pennsylvania’s Democratic Governor Josh Shapiro says legislation that would prevent transgender girls and women from playing on publicly funded sports teams is backed by extremist politicians. WITF’s Jordan Wilkie reports the governor avoided saying he would veto the bill. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Central PA band MDNGHT DSCO talks about their style and marketing their music. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In 1979, Three Mile Island was the site of what is often called the worst nuclear power accident on U.S. soil. Jaxon White, of LNP | LancasterOnline, reports that the restarting of the Island’s nuclear reactor is ahead of schedule. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Coyotes, foxes and crows are already fair game for Pennsylvania hunters on Sundays. Jaxon White from LNP | LancasterOnline reports that hunters may soon be allowed to chase deer, turkey and bear on all in-season Sundays. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.