As the 2024 election heats up, Republicans are making a concerted effort to secure the Amish vote in Pennsylvania, a crucial battleground state. Both Donald Trump and Kamala Harris are fiercely competing for the state, but the GOP sees a potential untapped advantage in the Amish community.
The Amish traditionally stay out of mainstream politics, but when they do vote, they tend to register as Republicans. Conservative activist Scott Presler is leading the charge to mobilize this group. “The Amish, if they are mobilized, could literally save Western civilization,” Presler said during a political conference.
Presler’s renewed effort to engage Amish voters focuses heavily on mail-in ballots, an idea that has gained traction within the community. According to Presler, Amish residents appreciate the convenience of mail-in ballots, as it allows them to vote privately without the need to travel to polling locations. “They love the idea of mail-in ballots,” he said, noting that this tool, often associated with Democrats, could be key in securing Amish support for Donald Trump.
Beyond mail-in ballots, conservatives argue that the Amish way of life is under threat from big government regulations. One high-profile example occurred earlier this year when Amish farmer Amos Miller’s Lancaster County farm was raided for selling raw milk products without state permits. Both Donald Trump Jr. and RFK Jr. have spoken out in support of Miller, framing the issue as an attack on traditional farming.
With Pennsylvania home to 87,000 Amish residents, particularly in Lancaster County, where 44,000 live, the GOP sees an opportunity to increase turnout. In 2020, Amish voter turnout tripled to 3,000, but Presler and his team, working with his PAC, Early Vote Action, are hoping to see even greater numbers this election.
Presler’s efforts are already making waves in Pennsylvania, as voter registration has flipped Luzerne County, traditionally a Democratic stronghold, to a slight Republican lead. With weeks to go before the election, the GOP’s push for the Amish vote could make a critical difference in this key state.
