But perhaps no government response to tragedy can compare to the sweeping powers held by a governor in the pandemic era. This is especially evident in Pennsylvania, where Governor Tom Wolf has issued directives to close retail stores, restaurants, schools, factories and even houses of worship. It all seems Orwellian and far beyond the scope of what Americans would have tolerated before 2020. And yet, all these dramatic measures occurred since last March. Their breadth and scope, moreover, were determined not by an elected body, or even a board of elites. Instead, these powers were concentrated in one official: Gov. Wolf.
“In Pennsylvania, voters will soon have the opportunity to protect that freedom and ensure the birthplace of our democratic republic remains a government of the people, by the people, for the people.”
Amendment Limiting PA Gov’s Emergency Powers Heading To Voters This May
Elizabeth Stelle: The dangerous legacy of emergencies like Covid-19
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