Voter Guide: Here's what to know about Pennsylvania's Nov. 3 election
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Monday is the final day to register to vote in the Nov. 3 general election.
Why it matters: In deep purple Pennsylvania, slim margins could decide several high-profile races.
The big picture: Next month's election could bring to an end the state's divided government that's been in place for more than a decade.
- Democrats see a potential pathway for their first trifecta in state government — capturing the governor's mansion, and state House and Senate — since 1993.
What they're saying: Lauren Cristella, president and CEO of the government watchdog group Committee of Seventy, tells Axios that national sentiment and President Trump's sagging poll numbers are among the top issues that will likely drive up voter turnout.
- "All news is national now," she said.
Driving the news: The big-ticket race is between Democratic Gov. Josh Shapiro and Republican challenger state Treasurer Stacy Garrity.
- Shapiro, who is seeking a second term as governor, has maintained significant fundraising advantages and big leads in the polls throughout the campaign.
- Worth noting: Ken Krawchuk is also running for governor on the Libertarian ticket.
State House: All 203 seats are up for grabs.
- Democrats hold a narrow majority in the House — 103-100.
- Roughly a dozen House races — including some in the Philly 'burbs — will likely determine control of the chamber, per Spotlight PA.
State Senate: Even-numbered districts in the 50-person Senate are on the ballot.
- The GOP maintains a 27-23 majority — a margin that has been shrinking in recent years.
- Democrats' best shots to flip the Senate will likely come down to around five tight contests, including a few in Bucks and Montgomery Counties, per Spotlight PA.
👀 Between the lines: Look for competitive races in the Philly 'burbs to drive up turnout.
- Meanwhile, Philly proper has a noticeable lack of high-profile races, so turnout in the Democratic stronghold could underperform.
What else: Congressional races throughout the state and two ballot questions in Philadelphia are also on the ballot.
🚨 Threat level: Cristella tells Axios that her top concerns heading into Election Day are federal interference as well as disruptions from bad actors.
- She's also watching how confusion around the process of mail-in voting due to federal court challenges and executive orders affects the election.
🗳️ How to register: Visit the state's website or go in person to the city's election offices.
- Voters can check their registration status online.