WEST CHESTER, PA — Four dedicated voters from Chester County have been inducted into the Pennsylvania Voter Hall of Fame, an exclusive group that honors individuals who have participated in every November General Election for at least 50 consecutive years. The induction took place during Friday’s Chester County Election Board meeting and was attended by Pennsylvania Secretary of State Al Schmidt, along with members of the Election Board and local elected officials.
Phoenixville residents Thomas and Irene Clapper and West Chester Borough residents William and Linda Scott were celebrated for their unwavering commitment to the democratic process. Their record of participation spans every municipal, local, state, and presidential election over five decades.
“These citizens have valued their constitutional right to vote enough to show up for every single election from the first time they were eligible to vote,” said Secretary Schmidt. “They are true role models of good citizenship. I congratulate them for setting a great example that should inspire the rest of us.”
Chester County Commissioners Josh Maxwell, Marian Moskowitz, and Eric Roe, who also serve on the Election Board, emphasized the significance of the honorees’ contributions. “More than half of the residents of Chester County weren’t even born the first time Thom and Irene Clapper and Bill and Linda Scott voted,” the commissioners remarked. “Their voices have played a role in determining the leadership of their municipalities, this county, the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, and the nation for the past 50 years.”
Karen Barsoum, Director of the Chester County Department of Voter Services, noted the honorees’ dedication and outlined special tokens of appreciation. “It is a privilege to recognize Thom and Irene Clapper and Bill and Linda Scott for their lifelong commitment to democracy and for trusting and supporting the electoral process,” Barsoum said. Along with their induction, each recipient received custom lapel pins, memory coins, and certificates from both the Pennsylvania State Legislature and local officials.
Barsoum encouraged other long-term voters to explore eligibility for the Hall of Fame, stating, “I encourage anyone who believes they have voted in 50 or more consecutive General Elections in Pennsylvania to contact Voter Services to determine whether they qualify.”
This recognition shines a light on the importance of civic engagement and voting as a vital part of active citizenship. Chester County’s inductees now stand as a powerful reminder of the role individuals can play in strengthening democracy through consistent participation. Looking ahead, local leaders hope their example inspires future generations to vote and contribute to decisions shaping their communities and beyond.
Chester County residents can apply for the Pennsylvania Voter Hall of Fame by completing a form on the Chester County Department of Voter Services website, www.chesco.org/elections. Voter Services reviews applications by checking voter records. If records show 50 consecutive years of voting in Pennsylvania’s General Elections, the application is sent to the Pennsylvania Department of State for approval.
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