Trump Alleges Voter Fraud in Pennsylvania

On Wednesday, former President Trump posted, “Pennsylvania is cheating, and getting caught, at large scale levels rarely seen before. REPORT CHEATING TO AUTHORITIES. Law Enforcement must act, NOW!” 

Key Quotes: At a rally in Allentown, PA, a day earlier, Trump said, "They’ve already started cheating in Lancaster. They’ve cheated. We caught them with 2,600 votes. No, we caught them cold."  “The idea that there is widespread fraud is completely false and without any evidence, and is designed to sow doubt and ultimately subvert the election,” said Neil Makhija, a Democratic commissioner in Montgomery County. Gov. Josh Shapiro (D) also denied claims of fraud.

The Facts: Last week, Lancaster County officials investigated 2,500 voter applications for fraud, and the district attorney said 60% of the applications were illegitimate. The fraudulent applications came from one paid canvassing group. No fraudulent ballots were reported.

How the Media Covered It: ABC News (Lean Left) said, "Trump claimed Lancaster County was 'caught' with fake ballots and forms -- a claim that distorts an instance that officials in Pennsylvania are promoting as an example of their security systems working properly." Other Lean Left outlets emphasized that Trump was spreading misinformation before clarifying what we do know about the case in Lancaster. The Washington Post (Lean Left) didn't explain the case until halfway through their article about Trump's claims. Outlets on the right were more likely to lead with claims of potential fraud in Pennsylvania and Pennsylvania's key importance to the election.