We round the bend and head towards November. Daylight saving time is coming to an end and holiday advertising is becoming ubiquitous.

The world of Pennsylvania politics never stops, though an occasional admonishment from a parliamentarian not to wear Halloween costumes in the chamber may sluggish things down a bit.

Here are five things I think I think.

1. Josh Shapiro has “officially” announced that he will run for president.

Yes, the first-term governor still has to win re-election to the position next year, but the only reason politicians write books is to prepare for the next step. In Shapiro’s case, it’s a flight to the White House. Take a look at politicians’ recent efforts:

• Courage of hope, His. Barack Obama
• United, Senator Cory Booker
• Off the sideline Senator Kirsten Gillibrand
• The truths we confess His. Scary Harris
• This is our fight Senator Elizabeth Warren
• The senator next door His. Amy Klobuchar
• American dreams Senator Marco Rubio
• The courage to be free Governor Ron DeSantis
• God, weapons, groats and sauce, Mike Huckabee
• One Nation, Ben Carson

What is the benefit of Shapiro writing his “memoir” at the ripe aged age of 52? Expect him to spend several weeks in February promoting his memoirs, and the free media that will accompany the tour will undoubtedly share his version of his album.

2. Will we have a ready state budget for 2026 by November 2026?

OK, maybe that’s a bit tongue-in-cheek. But here we are on day 115 of the budget impasse, and we are no closer to a resolution than we were on June 30… or February 4, when Governor Shapiro presented his budget proposal to the General Assembly.

The Republican-controlled state Senate passed a $47.9 million spending bill on Wednesday. The Democrat-controlled state House said it was “dead on arrival,” saying its latest $50.3 million spending bill would allow the commonwealth to “meet its obligations.”

As we approach the four-month deadline, you’d think the compromise would be to split the difference – perhaps agreeing on a figure of $49.6 million. However, it’s still not good enough because Senate Majority Leader Joe Pittman (R-Indiana) he told WHTM-TV that it’s not about dollars, it’s about politics.

Republicans hope that Shapiro’s inability to bring the faction to a resolution will stick with the governor during the 2026 campaign. Democrats, who have not controlled the General Assembly chamber for 12 years, are flexing their newfound muscles to maintain their position.

Conclusion. It’s time to do it. The optics are bad. Pennsylvanians are injured. Elected officials continue to be paid. Will voters remember next year?

3. Self-inflicted wounds

Example A: Rep. Scott Perry (R-10). The congressman from central Pennsylvania retired from busy duty in the U.S. Army in 2019 as a brigadier general. His credentials during his 40 years of service are impeccable. However, I’m not sure that gives him the right to criticize members of the other party who served in the military before entering public service.

Emerging Chris Stigall showPerry criticized these Democrats, saying: “It’s just a mandate they get when they want to run for office. They join the military, they serve a little bit, they get a mandate, and then they run for office, wear a uniform and say, ‘Look at me – I support America.’ But let’s face it, all their voices say they don’t support America.”

Not willing to stop there, Perry doubled down, saying “they don’t care about the Constitution or defending the nation.”

I find it challenging to believe Representatives Chrissy Houlahan (D-06) or Chris Deluzio (D-17) had DC in mind when they made the decision to serve our country. Houlahan earned an engineering degree from Stanford University on an ROTC scholarship, which led to her service in the United States Air Force and the United States Air Force Reserves. Deluzio is a graduate of the United States Naval Academy, was commissioned as an busy surface warfare officer and deployed three times, including a stint with the U.S. Army Civil Affairs Division in Iraq.

Perry’s comments were ill-advised and gave more fodder to the Democratic challenger Janelle Stelson who lost to Perry in 2024 by 1.25 points. percent and plans another run in the chair.

4. Smart lawmaking or intelligent politics?

Two things can be true at the same time. Brian Fitzpatrick reps (R-01), Ryan Mackenzie (R-07) ​​i Rob Bresnahan (R-08) put their “John Hancock” in the letter to House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.), demanding that Johnson “proposed a solution to the impending expiration of enhanced premium tax credits under the ACA after the government opens.”

“The government funding debate is not the time or place to raise health care issues. Using business shutdowns as leverage to force this debate only prolongs the damage and distracts from the immediate task of reopening the government,” the lawmakers wrote. “However, as the government reopens, our immediate focus should be on the growing health care affordability crisis and the impending expiration of enhanced premium tax credits under the Affordable Care Act (ACA). Millions of Americans are facing drastic premium increases due to short-sighted Democratic policymaking. While we did not create this crisis, we now have both the responsibility and the opportunity to address it.”

Intelligent lawmaking? The constituent parts of Bucks County, Lehigh Valley and NEPA would likely benefit from an extension of tax breaks. Wise policy? All three representatives are targeted by the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee because flipping the 1st, 7th and 8th districts, as well as PA-10, would shift control of the House from Republicans to Democrats.

While Fitzpatrick easily won another term in 2024, Mackenzie and Bresnahan defeated longtime Democrats by less than two percentage points, helped by President Donald Trump conquering the Keystone State.

In summary, this is probably not the time for this visit to urge voters to be prepared for additional health care harm.

5. A vote on maintaining the AP Supreme Court

The biggest race in the commonwealth on November 4 will be a vote to retain three Pennsylvania Supreme Court justices – Christina Donahue, Kevin DoughertyAND David Wecht.

If you’ve been living under a rock, you don’t realize that the trio faces another 10-year term on the state’s highest court. Pennsylvania voters are asked one straightforward question – “Should [name] be retained for an additional term as a justice of the Pennsylvania Supreme Court? Only answer: Yes or No.

Even though you are bombarded with ads calling for the retention of three judges, we hear that the “no” camp has withdrawn from television advertising, tacitly acknowledging that it may not be the best apply of money.

The question voters should ask themselves is whether there is any reason why any or all of the three options I don’t deserve it another decade on the bench. When elected, it should not be a matter of party affiliation.

A bit naive, don’t you think?

I think yes votes will win on all three.

Voter registration is closed in the Keystone State for 2025. And while Republicans celebrate their achievements and Democrats lick their wounds, the biggest story of 2026 is the rise of independence in Pennsylvania politics.

The gap between Democrats and Republicans continues to narrow, according to voter registration data provided by the State Department.

Of Pennsylvania’s 8.9 million registered voters, 42.8 percent indicated they were a member of the Democratic Party and 40.9 percent identified as Republican. That’s just over 170,000 voters.

The number of independent people is constantly growing – 12.7% selected the “no affiliation” option.

Since October of last year, Democrats have lost about 158,000 voters, while the GOP has only lost about 30,000 — a difference of 128,000. As a percentage, that’s a 3.97% loss for Democrats and a 1.84% decline in registered Republican voters.

Who is growing? Yes, independent.

The number of people who chose the “no affiliation” option increased by 134,000, or 3.11%. Of the 10 counties with the most independent voters, the largest increases were in Montgomery (+5.54%), Lancaster (+5.29%), and Berks (+5.27%), with Philadelphia, Bucks, Chester and York also increasing by more than 4.0%.

Of the 10 GOP counties, only two, Berks (+0.33%) and Westmoreland (+0.25%), have seen growth over the past 12 months, with Delaware (-3.44%) losing the most.

The numbers are worse for Democrats, as all 10 counties with the most registered voters lost 2.5% or more of their registered voters, and Allegheny, Lehigh, Berks and Northampton lost more than four percent.

Largest Democratic Counties

County	October 2024	July 2025	October 2025	Change/year
Philadelphia	796221	767574	768,569	-3.47%
Allegheny	522563	499 485	501247	-4.08%
Montgomery	310207	300 726	302253	-2.56%
Delaware	208246	199,972	201051	-3.46%
Dollars	199932	192,350	192 609	-3.66%
Chester	162840	157235	158551	-2.63%
Lancaster	114 199	110591	111,027	-2.76%
Lehigh	114929	109,643	109,872	-4.40%
Berki	108704	103744	103820	-4.49%
Northampton	98549	94,698	93,909	-4.71%
Total	3,971,607	3,806,544	3,813,866	-3.97%

Largest Republican Counties

County	October 2024	July 2025	October 2025	Change/year
Allegheny	270,952	264188	264 863	-2.25%
Montgomery	212 792	208 604	209 005	-1.78%
Dollars	203 901	202198	202815	-0.53%
Lancaster	185 018	183744	184158	-0.46%
York	170,667	167520	168210	-1.44%
Chester	156183	151,781	152194	-2.55%
Delaware	149923	145,024	144760	-3.44%
Philadelphia	131,600	130,925	131,498	-0.08%
Westmoreland	130 712	130,719	131,039	+0.25%
Berki	117 619	117 419	118,002	+0.33%
Total	3,673,873	3,631,635	3,643,258	-1.84%

Largest “unaffiliated” counties.
(does not include third parties)

County	October 2024	July 2025	October 2025	Change/year
Philadelphia	138,397	141596	144559	+4.45%
Allegheny	108834	107,108	109,627	+0.73%
Montgomery	75,906	77940	80 110	+5.54%
Dollars	64179	65565	67093	+4.54%
Chester	54078	55 100	56672	+4.80%
York	48910	49281	51060	+4.40%
Lancaster	46093	47135	48532	+5.29%
Delaware	45569	46243	47362	+3.93%
Lehigh	43363	43235	44025	+1.53%
Berki	36897	37721	38841	+5.27%
Total	1,096,427	1,103,810	1,130,562	+3.11%

Age groups

Range	Registered	Democrat	Republican	Other
18-24	793555	41.27%	34.76%	23.97%
25-34	1,447,939	45.03%	32.47%	22.50%
35-44	1,447,836	43.86%	35.45%	21.69%
45-54	1,283,357	40.27%	42.04%	17.67%
55-64	1,469,103	38.99%	48.35%	12.66%
65-74	1,398,151	44.42%	45.61%	9.97%
75 years and over	1,067,075	45.77%	46.54%	7.69%

(The Center Square) – Pennsylvania’s swing state status put the Commonwealth in the political spotlight in 2025, prompting multiple visits by the president and vice president as both sides worked to establish their positioning for the 2026 midterms.

But beyond the now-familiar red-versus-blue battle, alternative parties are gaining momentum, with a growing bloc of independent voters demanding a greater voice.

Trump and Vance visit

The year’s most high-profile political events touched on familiar themes – tariffs, tax cuts and economic messages – coupled with a clear message that Pennsylvania remains central to the nation’s agenda.

At the end of May President Donald Trump took a victory lap in West Mifflin to celebrate Pittsburgh Steel’s partnership with Japanese company Nippon Steel.

Speaking in a warehouse surrounded by steel workers, unions and state legislators and Congress, Trump called it the most crucial investment in the history of the American steel industry – a deal he made he had previously objected.

The president took the opportunity to emphasize how increasing tariffs on steel from 25% to 50% would protect the US steel industry.

Takahiro MoriNippon’s executive vice president and executive vice president, told the audience that the company would embark on massive investments that would reshape US Steel’s position on the world stage. “You have trusted us and we will work hard to earn that trust in the coming years,” he said.

“America’s golden age has only just begun,” Trump said, “and together we will make America great again, greater than ever before.”

Vice President J.D. Vance then a visit to Lucerne County in July, where he addressed a group at a machine shop in West Pittston. He spoke about the recently passed One Big Beautiful Bill Act, which fits the administration’s efforts into a broader mission to create opportunities for the next generation.

Vance raised key issues, including: economy, energy policy and border security. He then outlined the economic benefits of the bill, including above-inflation wages for blue-collar workers, no tax on overtime and tips, cuts in government spending, tax breaks for companies investing in America, and tariffs on companies that choose to produce their goods abroad.

The optimism in the room contrasted with criticism of the budget resolution – particularly changes to the public safety net and the restoration of work requirements for able-bodied adults without dependents, which would have moved coverage to millions of people across the country.

Both Trump and Vance made another stop in Pennsylvania in December to boost support for lower-vote races ahead of the midterm elections.

Trump focused on fares and “no tip tax” during the Dec. 9 stop at Mount Airy Casino Resort in Monroe County.

He represents the swing district U.S. Representative Rob Bresnahan (R-08), a freshman Republican who spoke at the rally. Democrats have positioned it for a potential surge in 2026, criticizing higher prices that they blame on the administration’s tariffs.

“My favorite word is tariffs,” Trump said several times, describing how they would generate large foreign revenues that he said would lend a hand farmers, protect the steel industry and spur investment and manufacturing relocation.

However, according to the Voters Voice Poll conducted by Noble Predictive Insights, these same tariffs have created uncertainty among Americans.

The vote found that 15% of registered voters cited price increases and inflation as their top concerns, followed by government corruption (13%), the economy/labor (11%), health care (9%), illegal immigration (8%), and crime/violence (7%).

Inflation level better than expected initiated the third cut in the federal rate on December 10.

A week later, the vice president addressed the crowd in the Allentown area, highlighting their efforts to keep the state scales in the negative.

At a rally held at Uline Shipping Supplies in Alburtis, Vance touted Trump’s economic policies and highlighted several GOP candidates.

While the city of Allentown is a Democratic stronghold, the surrounding areas of the county — and the broader Lehigh Valley — include more conservative suburbs and rural areas, making the entire region a key swing area for both major parties.

Pennsylvania Treasurer Stacy Garrity praised the administration’s policies – such as no tip tax and an expanded child tax credit – before reaching for Governor Josh Shapiroclaiming he is more focused on his alleged presidential ambitions and portraying him as an adversary who is fighting the administration in court rather than working with it.

Garrity hopes to dethrone Shapiro next year, but he faces an uphill battle.

According to Quinnipiac University poll released in October, Shapiro’s 60% approval rating was a up-to-date high since he took office in 2023. A hypothetical matchup with Garrity gives him a 55-39% lead, and 7 in 10 respondents said they didn’t know enough about the treasurer to decide whether he would receive their vote.

Vance acknowledged that many Americans still have high prices and affordability issues, attributing them to the previous administration’s high deficits, energy costs and inflation. He cautioned that it would take time to set high prices, but added that progress was being made.

“We inherited a mess, but I think in 11 months we have made enormous progress in making our nation safer, more secure and more prosperous,” he said. “Let us work over the next three years to do even more great work for the American people and rebuild this country together.”

Alternative parties are making progress

Meanwhile, after the November 2024 elections, as Democrats and Republicans strategize their next moves, one alternative party believes its long-term strategy is starting to pay off.

The Forward Partyfounded by former 2020 Democratic presidential candidate Andrew Yangstepped into the gap created by a polarized America to give dissatisfied voters more choices.

in January Craig SnyderForward Pennsylvania political director. said The Center Square

that while they had hoped to meet Pennsylvania’s threshold for minor-party status in November, they had accomplished a lot.

If their two candidates for statewide office received 2% of the vote in the general election, it would open the door to official party status in the state. Eric SettleForward’s candidate for attorney general received 17,320 votes – or 0.3%. Chris Fostertheir candidate for treasurer obtained 0.4% with 25,512 votes.

Snyder said it was arduous to compete with the hundreds of millions of dollars thrown into political communications aimed at Pennsylvania, and the country didn’t have a boat large enough to ride the red tide.

However, he was encouraged by the infrastructure they built with the lend a hand of volunteers.

“This shows that if you can’t compete at the level of paid political communication, it’s grassroots people who make the difference in building infrastructure and gaining supporters,” he said.

In 2025, the party continued to build infrastructure, numbering a dozen or so approved candidates works for various local offices in the lower half of the state.

Message approved Judge Pat Dugan in the race for Philadelphia District Advocate against a two-term incumbent Larry Krasner. Dugan was defeated in the May primary by a 64% to 36% margin. He ran for the seat again in November as the Republican candidate Krasner winning 73.1% of the city’s votes to Dugan’s 23.6%.

According to the Forward update, they have endorsed 70 candidates for 26 wins nationwide, and now have access to ballots in Arizona, Colorado, Connecticut, Florida, South Carolina, Utah and Minnesota.

Pennsylvania, along with Maryland, Minnesota and Virginia, is cited as one of the Forward’s strongest “turbocharged” states – with sturdy leadership and organization.

They also supported a Democrat Danny Ceislerwho defeated the Republicans Fred Harran in the Bucks County Sheriff’s race after receiving more than 55% of the vote.

“Forward candidates and supporters have shown that Americans don’t want more chaos or culture wars, they want leaders who take governing seriously and are willing to work with anyone to get results,” Forward said.

Independent voters want more of a voice

As the number of independent voters grows in Pennsylvania, there is broad bipartisan support for allowing the state’s 1.4 million independent voters to participate in primary elections, survey finds vote by Unite America.

The poll of 800 voters from across the Commonwealth found that respondents were 43% registered Republicans, 45% Democrats and 12% Independents. When asked which party primary they would choose to vote in if allowed, 22% said Republican, 25% said Democrat, 17% said neither, and 36% were unsure. Additionally, 69% support up-to-date laws allowing more voters to participate in primaries – something lawmakers in Harrisburg are currently considering.

Pennsylvania is one of only eight states where it occurs closed primaries.

House Bill 280, introduced by Representative Jared Solomon (Philadelphia) calls for open primaries. It passed the House State Government Committee in May with a narrow 14-12 vote and awaits further action in that chamber.

Sense. Daniel Laughlin (R-Erie) i Lisa Boscola (D-Bethlehem) sponsored Senate Bill 400, which proposes a semi-open primary election. In April, it was referred to the Senate State Government Committee.

In semi-open primaryindependent voters can vote in either the Republican or Democratic primaries. People registered with a specific party can only vote in their party’s primary elections. This differs from completely open primaries, in which voters can choose candidates from any party, regardless of affiliation.

“Registering as a Democrat or Republican should not be a prerequisite to exercising full voting rights here in Pennsylvania,” Boscola said. “It’s time to fix this. Allowing independents to vote in primaries is not only fair – it gives all Pennsylvanians the freedom to choose the leaders who represent them.”

Whether there will be progress on open primary legislation in 2026 remains an open question, but the debate itself reflects a shift in the electorate.

Lauren Jessop is a freelance writer and contributor to The Center Square

With the curtain drawn on 2025, attention turns to 2026 and the midterm elections.

Once again, the Keystone State will play a major role in determining control of the U.S. House of Representatives, as well as whether it wants to retain Governor Josh Shapiro for another term.

Let’s not forget that the Commonwealth will also decide whether it wants Democrats to retain control of the House of Representatives, where they have a 102-101 majority, and whether Republicans should maintain control of the state Senate, where they have a 27-23 majority.

So it seems like a good time to take a look at the voter rolls as the fresh year begins, and at first glance it appears to be good news for Republicans in the state’s 67 counties.

The Republican Party has closed the registration gap with Democrats to just over 50,000 energetic voters, and if inactive voters are included, the gap increases to about 172,000.

Of Pennsylvania’s 8.9 million registered voters, Democrats have 3.815 million in their tent, while Republicans have 3.643 million in the GOP.

However, the largest escalate was recorded in the independent camp – 1.142 million people avoiding any political party.

There have been over 50,000 departures from Democratic or Republican identification in calendar year 2025. Republicans took 37,256 voters away from Democrats, while Democrats took 22,041 voters away from the GOP.

Largest Democratic Counties

County	October 2024	July 2025	October 2025	January 2026	Change
Philadelphia	796221	767574	768,569	769286	-3.38%
Allegheny	522563	499 485	501247	501 071	-4.11%
Montgomery	310207	300 726	302253	302554	-2.47%
Delaware	208246	199,972	201051	201 412	-3.28%
Dollars	199932	192,350	192 609	192,683	-3.63%
Chester	162840	157235	158551	158,479	-2.68%
Lancaster	114 199	110591	111,027	111242	-2.59%
Lehigh	114929	109,643	109,872	110 166	-4.14%
Berki	108704	103744	103820	103,969	-4.36%
York	99238	94227	94,893	95 189	-4.08%
Total	3,971,607	3,806,544	3,813,866	3,815,575	-3.93%

Largest Republican Counties

County	October 2024	July 2025	October 2025	January 2026	Change
Allegheny	270,952	264188	264 863	264568	-2.36%
Montgomery	212 792	208 604	209 005	208,900	-1.83%
Dollars	203 901	202198	202815	202807	-0.57%
Lancaster	185 018	183744	184158	184166	-0.46%
York	170,667	167520	168210	168,449	-1.30%
Chester	156183	151,781	152194	152,083	-2.63%
Delaware	149923	145,024	144760	144,470	-3.64%
Philadelphia	131,600	130,925	131,498	131,484	-0.09%
Westmoreland	130 712	130,719	131,039	130,935	+0.17%
Berki	117 619	117 419	118,002	118116	+0.42%
Total	3,673,873	3,631,635	3,643,258	3,643,898	-0.08%

Largest “unaffiliated” counties.
(does not include third parties)

County	October 2024	July 2025	October 2025	January 2026	Change
Philadelphia	138,397	141596	144559	145,926	+5.42%
Allegheny	108834	107,108	109,627	110,928	+1.92%
Montgomery	75,906	77940	80 110	81117	+6.87%
Dollars	64179	65565	67093	67941	+5.86%
Chester	54078	55 100	56672	56672	+4.80%
York	48910	49281	51060	51781	+5.87%
Lancaster	46093	47135	48532	49335	+7.03%
Delaware	45569	46243	47362	47819	+4.94%
Lehigh	43363	43235	44025	44,449	+2.50%
Berki	36897	37721	38841	39,395	+6.77%
Total	1,096,427	1,103,810	1,130,562	1,142,244	+4.18%

Age groups

Range	Registered	Democrat	Republican	Other
18-24	779.350	41.21%	34.62%	24.17%
25-34	1,451,246	44.98%	32.43%	22.59%
35-44	1,454,012	43.85%	35.33%	20.82%
45-54	1,282,412	40.29%	41.85%	17.86%
55-64	1,468,437	38.90%	48.31%	12.79%
65-74	1,405,903	44.28%	45.68%	10.04%
75 years and over	1,078,959	45.77%	46.47%	7.76%

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Wow. Where did February go?

It’s the middle of the month… too cool for my taste… but the news never ends, right?

Glad we’re not all (New England) patriots and grateful that pitchers and catchers reported to Clearwater and Bradenton.

Here are five things that I think are concerning the political scene in Pennsylvania.

1. The Pennsylvania budget will be signed, sealed and delivered by June 30.

Yes, this is a bold statement, considering that last year’s budget was only signed on November 12. This statement could even be considered outstanding, considering that the IFO estimates the deficit at $6.7 billion, while the Commonwealth of Nations is staring down the barrel of a structural deficit in its budget.

Yes, but it is an even year. Why does this matter?

There are 203 state representatives and 25 state senators running in the November election. Add to that a gubernatorial race between the incumbent governor and state treasurer.

It is in the best interest of state legislators to complete this so that all remaining time can be devoted to the fall campaign. Will it be possible to do it by the end of June? I will say that early negotiations are a sign of progress that will happen sooner or later. One can only hope that my guesses are correct.

2. Who impressed me at the PA-03 congress forum?

PoliticsPA, together with the City Center Residents Association, organized a forum for candidates looking to replace Representative Dwight Evans in the 3rd Congressional District on Monday evening. Five Democratic candidates ran in the country’s bluest district – the state Senator Sharif Street, Representative Morgan Cephas, Dr. Unfortunately, Stanford, Dr. Dave OxmanAND Pablo McConnie-Saad – along with the supported Republican candidate Alex Quick.

The 90-minute forum was respectful and informative, showing that yes, current issues can be discussed without profanity.

I felt like two candidates made the most of this moment by introducing themselves to a statewide PCN audience that may not have known much about them – Oxman and McConnie-Saad. Street, who had won the endorsement of the 9th District Democrats earlier in the day, seemed untroubled by the news, while Stanford talked about her personal story to connect with the audience.

We know one thing for sure… a Democrat will win the seat – again.

3. Making the numbers sing and dance

It was Mark Twain who popularized the phrase “Lies, damned lies and statistics.”

Since the beginning of time, numbers have been used to emphasize or discredit this point. It is said that politicians, especially, can make numbers “sing and dance.”

An example would be Republicans who support the Safeguard American Voter Eligibility Act, or SAVE point to polls showing that 83 percent say respondents support requiring all voters to show government-issued photo identification when voting.

The drumbeat comes from social media drones reminding us that we need an ID card to perform everyday tasks like opening a bank account, checking job eligibility, picking up prescriptions and signing documents.

The same survey found that 4 out of 5 respondents want to make early, in-person voting available to voters at least two weeks before Election Day. You don’t hear much about it, do you?

Or maybe a 3v4 that was supposed to make Election Day a national holiday?

Or maybe the 59% who want to automatically register all citizens to vote?

While we all (except political writers) enjoy polls, we’re reminded that polls 1) are a snapshot in time and 2) are selected to support the “cause of the day.”

Please take them with the necessary pinch of salt.

4. Could Pennsylvania alone gain control of the U.S. House of Representatives??

This is certainly within the realm of possibility.

House Minority Leader HAKEEM JEFFRIES went further than usual in predicting a Democratic victory in 2026. He said there were 44 seats at stake and Democrats needed to win 3 seats.

“It’s happening. It’s likely we’ll win more.”

— Jake Sherman (@JakeSherman) February 12, 2026

There are at least four seats in play in the Community, including two The Cook Policy Report calls for undermining.

The Lehigh Valley race in PA-07 and the Capitol District race in PA-10 are two draws. The PA-08 seat in NEPA is likely to be Republican, while the Bucks County seat in PA-01 is likely to be Republican.

Could Pennsylvania Democrats flip seats and remove Ryan Mackenzie reps, Rob Bresnahan AND Scott Perry? Will be Representative Brian Fitzpatrick will fend off another challenge to his seat, or will the PA Dems make it a neat victory?

It says here that at least two places will change hands and the third one will be completed. Would a re-election victory be for Governor Josh Shapiro along Dems to ride his coat to the finish line? Will low-interest GOP voters turn out when Trump is off the ballot?

The ruling party – read GOP in 2026 – always loses seats in Congress. While the Senate appears to still be in Republican hands, the House may go murky for now ahead of the 120th Congress.

Once again, prepare for a long, long election season in the Commonwealth.

5. Some thoughts on ICE

While I believe most people want our immigration laws to be followed, I think we have to agree that Immigration and Customs Enforcement officials have gone too far.

Even though ICE officers are law enforcement, I don’t think our local and state law enforcement officers are wearing face masks. Or failure to produce warrants. Or ensuring due process?

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) continues to bless ICE’s actions, and the impact is far-reaching. But even President Donald Trump he seems to realize that a line has been crossed in the event of death Renee Good AND Alex Pretti. The president sent a “border czar” Tomek Homan lower temperatures in Minneapolis, but American cities remain in a tough situation and Pennsylvania is making preparations if the administration targets the Keystone State next.

Earlier Thursday, Senate Democrats voted to block a House-passed DHS funding bill, putting Washington on the brink of a partial government shutdown that will affect more than 260,000 federal workers. By the way, Senator John Fettermanwho has long voted against a government shutdown, was the only Democrat to vote in favor of it.

As a result, funding for key agencies such as the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), and the Coast Guard will expire on Saturday without further action from Congress. However, the agencies that are the main targets of Democrats’ fury, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Customs and Border Protection (CBP), will be able to continue operations without major disruption.

Is this what we want? Is this what you voted for?

This isn’t about “having Libs”. This is about who we are as a country. As the First Lady said, “Be better.”

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???? Headlines. Perry ranks No. 1 on Pennsylvania Congress’s vulnerability rankings. Administrator Shapiro’s challenge to recent ICE detention facilities could take years to resolve. Cash flow to race for Congress in Bucks County. PA teacher honored with State Award.

???? Your morning, pick me up. Badlands. Bruce Springsteen

Weather in Pennsylvania
Jeannette | Showers, 72
???? Millerstown | Increasingly sunlit, 70
Hallstead | Mostly gloomy, 59

Sports PA
Phillies (8-15) | Young 4-7 | Wednesday at the Chicago Cubs
Pirates (13-10) | Texas 1-5 | Wednesday in Texas
???? Sixers (1-1) | Boston 111-97 | Friday vs. Boston
???? Flyers (2-0) | Wednesday in Philadelphia
???? Penguins (0-2) | Wednesday – Philadelphia
Union (1-1-6) | Wednesday vs. Toronto

???? What’s happening today. The AP Senate meets at 10 a.m.

???? What we hear. “An adult may tell you that they see something in you that maybe you didn’t see in yourself,” he said. “I love doing this for students. When I see ambition, when I see talent, I let them know that so hopefully they can pursue that goal and achieve their dreams.” – Leon Smith

???? Tips. PoliticsPA is Pennsylvania’s leading source of unbiased political news and analysis. Tips and press releases can be submitted [email protected].

???? PoliticsPA Guide was developed by Steve Ulrich. To read in your browser click here.

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The most vital story

1. Perry tops Pennsylvania’s congressional vulnerability rankings

“Nine months have passed since we released our initial PoliticsPA Congressional Vulnerability Rankings to the House of Representatives for Pennsylvania’s delegation. Our rankings look largely the same, but in that time the political environment of the four incumbent Republicans has deteriorated.”

As nine months ago, four places are in the “Vulnerable” category, which is the second place in the ranking, and remain in the same order. The most vulnerable on our list is the four-term Republican Rep. Scott Perryfollowed in descending order by another Republican Ryan Mackenzie reps, Rob Bresnahan AND Brian Fitzpatrick” | PoliticsPA

Elsewhere

PA-03: U.S. Representatives Madeleine Dean and Chrissy Houlahan endorse Dr. Al Stanford. “Members of Congress representing parts of southeastern Pennsylvania have joined Dwight Evans in supporting his potential successor.” | City and state

PA-07: Democrats running for Congress in Lehigh Valley Talks on tariffs, economy. “Affordability and rising costs have emerged as a major issue in U.S. elections for several years now. This could prove to be a key issue again this midterm, when national polls have shown that Americans disapprove of President Donald Trump’s handling of the cost of living. ” | LehighValley News

Dr. Mehmet Oz Announces 50-State Audit of Medicaid Oversight. “The Trump administration will require all 50 states to explain their plans to re-recognize some Medicaid providers as part of a national escalation of anti-fraud efforts that have so far largely focused on specific states, Dr. Mehmet Oz said Tuesday.” | AP

What was the 2015 Iran nuclear deal? “President Trump ridiculed President Barack Obama and the agreement he withdrew from during his first term. His critics say he could have avoided the war if he had left it.” | New York Times

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Country

2. Shapiro Admin’s extraordinary challenge to recent ICE detention centers could take years to resolve

“The administrative process that temporarily blocked ICE from further opening two detention facilities in Pennsylvania could take years to complete.

The Shapiro administration’s approach to the agency’s plans to convert warehouses into immigration detention centers differs from that of several other states that have filed lawsuits. And that also differs from the way the Department of Environmental Protection has applied such orders in the past, according to one expert.” | PA reflector

Elsewhere

Voices of reason: A look at the pursuit of the Democratic nomination in PA-07. “The latest episode of the PoliticsPA podcast, Voices of Reason, takes a look at one of the hottest congressional races in the country – the 7th Congressional District in the Lehigh Valley.” | PoliticsPA

AP Senate Democrats Advocate for Affordability, Say GOP Too Focused on ‘Culture War’ Issues. “About 10 Democratic senators gathered in the Capitol rotunda to promote policies they believe will ease the financial burden on families, including a minimum wage increase and universal free school meals.” | LNP

Sexual harassment persists in state governments and legislatures, including PA findings. “A new report finds that sexual harassment remains a pervasive problem in state governments and legislatures, including Pennsylvania, with more than 160 elected officials accused of misconduct since 2013.” | PennLive

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Around the Republic of Poland

3. PA-01: Bucks County Congressional Race Cash Flow. Who finances it

“All three candidates for Pennsylvania’s 1st Congressional District — are incumbents U.S. Representative Brian Fitzpatrick, Bob Harvie AND Lucia Simonelli — criticized Citizens United, the Supreme Court decision that allowed virtually unlimited independent political campaign spending through super PACs.

However, candidates in the upcoming Republican and Democratic primary elections to represent Bucks County and parts of eastern Montgomery County have different policies on accepting money from corporate PACs and groups aligned with the interests of foreign governments.” | Bucks County Courier Times

Elsewhere

What happens when a county in Pennsylvania waits 20 years for a reassessment? “More than one-third of Pennsylvania’s 67 counties have not conducted a full property reassessment since 2000, putting nearly 40% of the state in the position of the 2010 Adams County situation that rocked communities, ended political careers and sucked out more money than government officials were willing to spend on a single issue.” | USA Today Network

Botification: How artificial intelligence is (and isn’t) being used by Center County politicians and 2026 campaigns. “There seemed to be something wrong with Michelle Schellberg’s campaign portrait. The GOP House candidate’s long silver earrings looked mismatched and caught in her hair. She had bangs, which she had not been photographed with in recent years. The stars on the American flag behind her were unevenly spaced.” | Daily Times Center

City officials across Pennsylvania are calling on colleagues to adopt data center zoning. “City officials, who are required to be impartial and evaluate proposed developments in accordance with the law, often find themselves caught between angry voters and litigating businesses. Covington County Supervisor Marshall Peirce estimated that 500 people attended the meeting at which the board approved the zoning and described it as ‘truly terrible’.” | Penn Capital Star

More Pennsylvanians dissatisfied with health care and stressed by politics, Muhlenberg survey finds. “16 percent of respondents rated the state’s health care quality as poor, which exceeded the 13 percent that rated it as excellent for the first time since Muhlenberg began asking the question.” | Morning talk in Allentown

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Editorial

4. What do you think about it?

• When silence becomes the rule in the Philadelphia Inquirer | Terry Tracy
• Why the PA constitution remains relevant after 250 years | Brent Landau
• Republicans may lose the midterm elections but win in the future | Matt K. Lewis
• Pennsylvania’s energy future depends on affordability and reliability | Eugene DePasquale
• Increasing affordable access to higher education for all Pennsylvania students | Donald Lyons
• Fetterman’s puzzle | Lowman Henry
• Will AP’s plans to raise housing include Philadelphia? | Jon Geeting
• House Bill Aims to Protect Pennsylvania Communities from Data Center Impacts | Tim Hayes

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1 item

5. Pennsylvania high school history instructor named national Teacher of the Year

“A Pennsylvania high school history teacher who helps students look inward to find their strengths and outward to find community inside and outside the classroom has been named the 2026 National Teacher of the Year.

Leon Smith(46) has spent his entire 25-year career at Haverford High School, where he teaches Advanced Placement classes in U.S. history and African-American studies. He describes himself as a “warm demander,” someone who sets high expectations while surrounding students with love and support. That often means recognizing hidden talents and bringing them to the fore, he said in an interview on Monday AP

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I appreciate you starting your day with us.
We are at the halfway point. See you tomorrow.

We round the bend and head towards November. Daylight saving time is coming to an end and holiday advertising is becoming ubiquitous.

The world of Pennsylvania politics never stops, though an occasional admonishment from a parliamentarian not to wear Halloween costumes in the chamber may leisurely things down a bit.

Here are five things I think.

1. Josh Shapiro has “officially” announced that he will run for president.

Yes, the first-term governor still has to win re-election to the position next year, but the only reason politicians write books is to prepare for the next step. In Shapiro’s case, it’s a flight to the White House. Take a look at politicians’ recent efforts:

• Courage of hope, His. Barack Obama
• United, Senator Cory Booker
• Off the sideline Senator Kirsten Gillibrand
• The truths we confess His. Scary Harris
• This is our fight Senator Elizabeth Warren
• The senator next door His. Amy Klobuchar
• American dreams Senator Marco Rubio
• The courage to be free Governor Ron DeSantis
• God, weapons, groats and sauce, Mike Huckabee
• One Nation, Ben Carson

What is the benefit of Shapiro writing his “memoir” at the ripe ancient age of 52? Expect him to spend several weeks in February promoting his memoirs, and the free media that will accompany the tour will undoubtedly share his version of his album.

2. Will we have a ready state budget for 2026 by November 2026?

OK, maybe that’s a bit tongue-in-cheek. But here we are on day 115 of the budget impasse, and we are no closer to a resolution than we were on June 30… or February 4, when Governor Shapiro presented his budget proposal to the General Assembly.

The Republican-controlled state Senate passed a $47.9 million spending bill on Wednesday. The Democrat-controlled state House said it was “dead on arrival,” saying its latest $50.3 million spending bill would allow the commonwealth to “meet its obligations.”

As we approach the four-month deadline, you’d think the compromise would be to split the difference – perhaps agreeing on a figure of $49.6 million. However, it’s still not good enough because Senate Majority Leader Joe Pittman (R-Indiana) he told WHTM-TV that it’s not about dollars, it’s about politics.

Republicans hope that Shapiro’s inability to bring the faction to a resolution will stick with the governor during the 2026 campaign. Democrats, who have not controlled the General Assembly chamber for 12 years, are flexing their newfound muscles to maintain their position.

Conclusion. It’s time to do it. The optics are bad. Pennsylvanians are injured. Elected officials continue to be paid. Will voters remember next year?

3. Self-inflicted wounds

Example A: Rep. Scott Perry (R-10). The congressman from central Pennsylvania retired from lively duty in the U.S. Army in 2019 as a brigadier general. His credentials during his 40 years of service are impeccable. However, I’m not sure that gives him the right to criticize members of the other party who served in the military before entering public service.

Emerging Chris Stigall showPerry criticized these Democrats, saying: “It’s just a mandate they get when they want to run for office. They join the military, they serve a little bit, they get a mandate, and then they run for office, wear a uniform and say, ‘Look at me – I support America.’ But let’s face it, all their voices say they don’t support America.”

Not willing to stop there, Perry doubled down, saying “they don’t care about the Constitution or defending the nation.”

I find it strenuous to believe Representatives Chrissy Houlahan (D-06) or Chris Deluzio (D-17) had DC in mind when they made the decision to serve our country. Houlahan earned an engineering degree from Stanford University on an ROTC scholarship, which led to her service in the United States Air Force and the United States Air Force Reserves. Deluzio is a graduate of the United States Naval Academy, was commissioned as an lively surface warfare officer and deployed three times, including a stint with the U.S. Army Civil Affairs Division in Iraq.

Perry’s comments were ill-advised and gave more fodder to the Democratic challenger Janelle Stelson who lost to Perry in 2024 by 1.25 points. percent and plans another run in the chair.

4. Smart lawmaking or sharp politics?

Two things can be true at the same time. Brian Fitzpatrick reps (R-01), Ryan Mackenzie (R-07) ​​i Rob Bresnahan (R-08) put their “John Hancock” in the letter to House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.), demanding that Johnson “proposed a solution to the impending expiration of enhanced premium tax credits under the ACA after the government opens.”

“The government funding debate is neither the time nor the place to raise health care issues. Using business shutdowns as leverage to force this debate only prolongs the damage and distracts from the immediate task of reopening the government,” the lawmakers wrote. “However, as the government reopens, our immediate focus should be on the growing health care affordability crisis and the impending expiration of enhanced premium tax credits under the Affordable Care Act (ACA). Millions of Americans are facing drastic premium increases due to Democrats’ short-sighted policymaking. While we didn’t create this crisis, we now have both responsibility and opportunity to solve this problem. “

Intelligent lawmaking? The constituent parts of Bucks County, Lehigh Valley and NEPA would likely benefit from an extension of tax breaks. Wise policy? All three representatives are targeted by the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee because flipping the 1st, 7th and 8th districts, as well as PA-10, would shift control of the House from Republicans to Democrats.

While Fitzpatrick easily won another term in 2024, Mackenzie and Bresnahan defeated longtime Democrats by less than two percentage points, helped by President Donald Trump conquering the Keystone State.

In summary, this is probably not the time for this visit to urge voters to be prepared for additional health care harm.

5. A vote on maintaining the AP Supreme Court

The biggest race in the commonwealth on November 4 will be a vote to retain three Pennsylvania Supreme Court justices – Christina Donahue, Kevin DoughertyAND David Wecht.

If you’ve been living under a rock, you don’t realize that the trio faces another 10-year term on the state’s highest court. Pennsylvania voters are asked one plain question – “Should [name] be retained for an additional term as a justice of the Pennsylvania Supreme Court? Only answer: Yes or No.

Even though you are bombarded with ads calling for the retention of three judges, we hear that the “no” camp has withdrawn from television advertising, tacitly acknowledging that it may not be the best exploit of money.

The question voters should ask themselves is whether there is any reason why any or all of the three options I don’t deserve it another decade on the bench. When elected, it should not be a matter of party affiliation.

A bit naive, don’t you think?

I think yes votes will win on all three.

Berwood Yost, Pennsylvania Capital-Star
March 21, 2025

In the lightweight of the success, which in 2024, republican candidates in 2024. Some analysts indicate that Pennsylvania is guided by Florida, a one -time assassination state, which became reliably republican.

The democratic advantage of registration of partisan voters has dropped from 1.2 million to about 340,000 over the past decade and existed Geographical, demographic and social changes occurring in each side. But did Trump really make these changes? And do they represent constant equalization in a country that recommends Republicans, making them a dominant party of the state?

The adaptation of changes in the registration of voters to the president’s term is the most logical way to understand the impact of presidential personality and politics on state policy. One largest period of partisan change in this century took place during the second term of Bush administration, when democratic registration increased and republican registration decreased. Voters in the second term of Bush administration were extremely negative towards Bush’s results and drastically changed the partisan balance of the state, giving democrats a registration advantage of 1.2 million voters until the end of his term.

The largest decline in the democratic partisan registration from 2000 took place during the Biden term, which again corresponds to the period of relatively destitute presidential assessments, even among Biden partisans.

The largest raise in republican registration in this century took place during the first term of Trump, but the greatest relative development was among the registrains of the third pages.

In fact, the raise in unrelated registration and registration of third parties overtook the growth of the main parties during each administration in this century, except for the second bush term. While both main parties had an raise in registration from 2000, the most relative growth increased, rising from less than 800,000 voters in 2000 to 1.4 million in 2024.

From a historical point of view, Trump’s lump is more a bend than a reflection. Partisan registration actions could coincide a bit faster after 2016, but there is no clear jump in registration, as it appeared at other periods in the history of the state. The most sudden change in the registration of state voters took place in 1932–1936 Franklin Roosevelt First date. The candidacy and the presidency of Roosevelt deeply changed the state’s policy, eventually enabling democrats to compete in the state.

Other presidential eras also caused noticeable breaks with past trends. The most clear changes took place in 1956–1960, 1972–1976 and 2004–2008, but none was similar to changes in the lead, such as the recent FDR offer. Partisan movements related to the Trump’s era are approaching the normal indicators of changes noticeable in the latest history than the greatest disturbances of previous eras, perhaps because Trump did not have objectively obvious obvious economic tail winds. Many people reported that it is worse economically in 2024 than in the previous year, but objective Mias of GDP did not show recession. The sharpest swings in the registration of voters usually coincided with considerable recessions.

Identifying critical choices that signal a break from past politics is complex to do in real time. Sometimes critical choices cause a sudden remarkable change, which disappears gradually, as was the case in the era of recent order. In other circumstances, the initial changes are diminutive, but waves outside and grow over time. Some scholars believe that this happened in the mid -1960s and played the appearance in the 1990s of a balanced majority of republican chambers of the United States. History evidence suggests that the Trump’s era, although significant for many reasons, was not beyond the norms of historical partisan switching. History also suggests that the effects of electoral waving can take place for some time.

Changes in registration occurring over the past decade have been mostly created by President Trump, using changes already taking place within the state of the state, including departure from both main parties. The transfer of registration based on Trump does not yet give Republicans a lasting advantage. Electoral implications for partisan changes point to the near future, which remains highly competitive due to the lower registration advantage for Democrats and the growing part of unfiled voters.

Democrats had the opportunity in 2008 to introduce changes in status quo, which could strengthen their guerrilla advantages, but failed. A similar opportunity now belongs to Republicans who like not only Trump’s presence in the White House, but also a two -member majority in the Chamber and Senate and the sympathetic Supreme Court.

Will the Republicans succeed than Democrats from Obama’s time in creating a recent political coalition from the electorate longing for changes? Their policy will be more significant than the President’s personal popularity, if they hope for the construction of a sustainable and lasting advantage in future elections.

Berwood Yost is the director of the Franklin & Marshall College survey

Pennsylvania Capital-Star It is part of StatesRoom, non -profit of the information network supported by subsidies and a coalition of donors as 501C (3) of a charity organization. Pennsylvania Capital-Star maintains editorial independence. Contact the editor Tim Lambert to obtain questions: info@penncapital-star.com.

Morning on Good Friday, seekers.

If there is one political truism, the choices cost money. And massive choices cost a lot of money. And elections to benches throughout the state and district in Pennsylvania are no exception. Everything is said 18 states, including PennsylvaniaChoose judges in the partisan elections, in accordance with Balotpedia.

As we noticed earlier, this system requires judges to exit, campaign and collect funds, like any other political candidate. However, because the judges do not speak in their minds in most problems (because they can ultimately be called to govern), this means that the average voter has no idea who these candidates are or what they mean. And this in turn means that high -power interests are able to infiltrate these breeds and spend a huge amount of money to choose judges. And this is generally bad for democracy.

Now, Thanks to the novel Brennan Center for Justice reportWe have a clearer idea about money that play in court elections, not only in Pennsylvania, but throughout the country. The following data are based on obtaining funds 2017-2018.

To sum up, voters throughout the country cast card cards up to 66 places on their highest courts.

This is equivalent to one of the five seats of the Supreme Court throughout the country, in accordance with Brennan Center’s analysis. The fact that Tally covers 20 retention elections in which the sedant judges were closer, and voters decided whether they deserve further serving, in accordance with Brennan Center’s analysis.

In 2017, justice of the Supreme Court in Pennsylvania Sallies of the unitIN which was originally elected as a Republican, defeated Judge of Allegheny Dwayne WoodruffDemocrat in challenged partisan elections. Uniform He was appointed to court in 2016 and ran for a full, 10-year term, According to Balotpedia.

Meanwhile, Main Judge Thomas SaylorChosen as a republican and Justice Debra ToddChosen as a democrat, they both stood retention and won.

In total, candidates and those who try to influence the court competitions spent $ 39.7 million at races in 21 states, Brennan Center’s An analysis was found.

Here’s how it broke:

• “USD 28.3 million contributions for court candidates (including public financing)
• USD 522,000 for political party expenses (without any contributions by the parties of candidates or groups)
• USD 10.8 million expenditure by special interest groups (not including any contributions of interest groups for candidates or pages).
• Twelve judges were selected in races for a million dollars during the 2017–18 cycle, which accounted for 75 percent of all expenses ”, Brennan Center Found.

If there is an raise, then “the price of $ 39.7 million was less than three of the four latest intra -fifteenth cycles, which reached an average of $ 45 million of expenses. Similarly, 12 judges chosen in elections in millions of dollars have been the least since 2006; There was 17 in the previous intracereit cycle, ” Brennan Center’s An analysis was found.

This was about at least two factors: the number of unquestioned breeds and expenses in the middle of the term in 2018, when the residences of Congress and governors were focused throughout the country. Pennsylvania, who chooses its judges in strange years, was not part of this phenomenon.

“At the same time, some states saw expenses for record books”, Brennan Center’s An analysis was found. “Arkansas had the most expensive elections in its history, in the amount of $ 3.4 million for one place in the Supreme Court. Wisconsin elections in 2018 brought $ 5.3 million expenses, almost corresponding to record elections in 2011 (in 2019 Wisconsin broke the 2011 record with a competition of $ 8 million. “

Our things.
Maybe you noticed that Higher Education Aid Agency in Pennsylvania Recently there has been domestic headlines for all the wrong reasons, Elizabeth Hardison He runs our morning relationship, explaining what this unclear agency is doing and why it became the target of control in legislation.

On the 7th anniversary of Sandy Hook, Editor -in -chief of Cassie Miller On Thursday evening it brings you monuments and the sounds of a rally related to limiting violence using weapons in a state capitol.

With the US House rushing towards voting for impeachment, Representative of the American Conor Lamb, D-17th DistrictHe explains why he is “yes”.

Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick, R-1st districtI broke up from GOP to vote with House Demes to approve the groundbreaking bill for prescription drugs. Washington reporter Allison Stevens Has history.

From our partners in Philadelphia Tribune: During the last voting session in the decade, the City Council approved dramatic changes in the city tax limiting program, introducing a novel era for the city’s development community.

US Rep. Susan Wild, D-7th DistrictSlow Secretary of Education Betsy Devos During a test interrogation at home, Head of the office in Washington Robin Blavender Reports.

On our website, the previous ones Aarp-Pa Director of the spokes Radius Landsome Says PA. It is not ready for a gray tidal wave that is heading for our path. And having so much on the black line, John N. Mitchell from Trib He wonders why Philly Urban League He honored the company (spoiler: Comcast) This contributed to diversity and inclusion.

Elsewhere.
Inquirer He takes readers to a tiny town of weeds The fact that outside people say “stink like 20 skunks” and gives his neighbors.
Stal us will be Spend $ 8.5 million on the resolution of a collective claim at Clairton Works, Post-gazette Reports.
. Pa. State police Pennsylvania “skill games” from several bars of PennsylvaniaIN Pennlive Reports.
Parents of the charter school in Bethlehem I sent a letter to the school district demanding that his curator apologize for the racial remarks he presented, Morning conversation Reports.

Here is your instagram #pennsylvania:

https://www.instagram.com/p/b58y12vp3me/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

The plastic prohibition of Philly is plastic “Finally happens” Why FM reports.
They blaming human errors and sensitive touch screens to the election at night in Northampton, PA Post Reports.
AND The third democrat jumped on the basic year 2020 challenge GOP Rep. Mike Kelly, R-16th Districtin 2020, PoliticSpa Reports.
. Judicial Committee will be Vote today in Impeachment articlesAfter a very long Thursday, Connection Reports.

What’s going on.
. Democratic Policy Committee House He meets at 10 am in the Upper Providence Township building in Montgomery to conduct a public interrogation on rainwater management.

Wolfwatch.
Tom Wolf GovernorIN US Senator Bob Casey, D-Pa.AND Pa. Insurance Commissioner Jessica Altman Go to Pittsburgh for the event at 10:30 in East Liberty Family Health Center remind people to sign up Act on inexpensive care reception. The open registration period ends on December 15.

What is happening (naked political edition).
Helping to plan a Saturday, Rep. Valerie Gaydos organizes a party with a tailgate at 11 am Rep. Stephen Kinsey He calls during the next journey after the sun with a party at 19.00. Go to both events and give it to the max, and in this weekend you don’t have only $ 2,000.

Severe rotation.
Here is an ancient favorite Sugar To start the weekend … well … raucous: from 1992 “Copper blue“LP, this”If I can’t change your opinion. “

Friday unjustified hockey link.
“Canes dropped the decision 1-0 to Canucks On Thursday evening. Carolina Outsh Vancouver 43-28 in three periods. But amazing 43 saves through Vancouver GOAL Jacob Markstrom He kept the game.

And now you are up to date.

TGIF. Our long, frigid week is coming to an end. Make it a great weekend.

PoliticSPA guide is compiled by Steve Ulrich. Read in browser, Click here. Has this email been forwarded? Subscribe for free.

Bye weather
Aliquippa | Mostly overcast, 22
Shermans Dale | Partly shining, 29
Trevose | Sunny, 31

PA Sports
Eagles (16-3) | Sun vs. Washington
Penguins (20-22-8) | Anaheim 1-5 | SAT vs. Seattle
Flyers (22-21-6) | The Rangers 1-6 | Fri. Vs. Islanders
Sixers (15-27) | Fri vs. Cleveland | SAT vs. Chicago

What we hear. “Frankly, the way Cleveland-Cliffs’ CEO talked about the Japanese was offensive to so many people that I can’t imagine why anyone would want to work for that type of person or company.” – Letter from American workers to President Trump

Social media. PoliticSPA has multiple social media outlets to get the latest political news from across the Commonwealth: Twitter |. Blues |. Facebook |. LinkedIn

The best story

1. Steel Workers Are Trying to Trump to Save Our Steel Deal

“American permanent workers have a new deal to win President Donald Trumpand now they are doing their thing.

Avoiding the slow, falling momentum that didn’t finish President Joe BidenSteelworkers drafted an open letter to Trump this week, explaining they don’t want the iconic Pittsburgh company to sell to its competitor in Cleveland.

In a letter to Trump, employees argued that Cleveland-Cliffs “does not have the money or know-how to get us back on track or make the investments that Nippon has made.” ”(Pittsburgh Post-Gazette)

Elsewhere

Pennsylvania to receive $212 million in settlement from Sacklers, Purdue Pharma. “Attorney General Dave Sunday announced that a bipartisan coalition of states and other parties has reached a $7.4 billion in-principle settlement with members of the Sackler family and their company Purdue Pharma, Inc. for their role in fueling the opioid crisis.” (PoliticSpa)

PA leaders are not involved in Trump’s citizen mandate. “Legal challenges to President Donald Trump’s executive orders are already working their way through the system, most notably the attempt to end birthright citizenship.” (PennLive)

The Senate Bill would require schools to support students file Title VI complaints, including anti-Jewish hate complaints. “‘The threats and attacks against Jewish students since October 7 have been despicable,’ said Senator Bill Cassidy, who introduced the bill with Senator John Fetterman.” (Jewish News Syndicate)

Country

2. Shapiro says he “got things done” in his first two years. His biggest challenges are yet to come

“Governor Josh ShapiroThe Abington Township Democrat, who is already halfway through her first term carrying the nation’s fifth most important state, has spent her first two years taking on long-standing problems in Pennsylvania, such as an unconstitutional public financing system, stagnant higher education institutions, stagnant higher education institutions, stagnant higher education . and a long-sought increase in the state’s senior property tax and rent rebate program.

But his time as the swing state’s top governor – and with rumored national ambitions – last year catapulted him into the national spotlight as a leader Vice President Kamala Harris’ Leading a partner before the presidential elections. And his first two years leading at Pennsylvania came with challenges.

And just two years later, Shapiro’s biggest tests as a trader are yet to come. ”(Philadelphia Inquirer)

Elsewhere

PA lawmakers are eyeing a “skills games” tax to make up for lack of funding for public transportation. “In state politics, the path to solving big problems often seems to run through Philadelphia. That’s certainly true when it comes to mass transit, as Harrisburg grapples with how to run its public transit systems in the month after Gov. Josh Shapiro diverted federal highway funding as a toehold for Philly’s struggling transit agency. ”(Wes’s politics)

Trump’s order rejecting “gender ideology” denies PA rules for schools. “Pennsylvania’s laws define gender identity as a protected class—despite Trump’s order stating otherwise—and specify that discrimination based on gender identity is a form of prohibited sex-based discrimination.” (Philadelphia Inquirer)

You can now follow how PA’s richest billionaire uses his power and influence. “Jeffrey Yass’ net worth has almost doubled in 2024 and is worth almost $50 billion, thanks to his investments in parent company Tiktok. The recent website aims to track his political influence and spending. ”(Keystone)

Around the Commonwealth of Nations

3. Budget Game or Shell Game? $7.6M Delaware County Mystery

“Delaware County says it has no documents — not a single email, note, spreadsheet, text or voicemail — that could shed light on how $7.6 million magically appeared in the county’s second budget bill 2025, thereby giving the county more breathing room with the massive tax increase proposed for the coming year.

This $7.6 million infusion in one spending line is important because it represents most of the difference between the county’s first budget bill proposing a 28 percent tax increase and a later bill that lowered the proposed tax increase to 23 percent. In other words, the tax drop between the two versions couldn’t have happened without an additional $7.6 million. ”(Broad + Liberty)

Elsewhere

Former police officer Tony Moreno to run for mayor of Pittsburgh. “Retired Pittsburgh Police Officer Tony Moreno announced Thursday that he is running for mayor again as a Republican. He announced his campaign with a message to voters: “I told you so,” he wrote in his announcement. (Pittsburgh Post-Gazette)

Philly Dems decide not to endorse district attorney race. “Democratic chapter leaders in Philadelphia voted not to endorse a candidate in this year’s district attorney contest, turning away from incumbent Larry Krasner.” (PoliticSpa)

Tom Giovanni announces campaign for Northampton County Executive. “Giovanni, a retired Plainfield Township businessman, said in a news release that he is seeking to end the dysfunction and incompetence of Lamont McClure’s executive administration.” (lehighvalleynews.com)

Immigration changes, misinformation make NEPA communities fearful. “The message went viral on social media. An anonymous poster in a Facebook group was looking for volunteers to help distribute hundreds of posters in South Scranton. “Report illegal aliens,” the poster shouted in vast black letters with a phone number and website. “There is nowhere to hide,” he added. ”(WVIA)

Editorial

4. What do you think

1 item

5. Punxsutawney Phil Fans Line Up to Meet “God” at Phil-a-Palooza

“Before the scheduled performance at Wigle Whiskey, Punxsutawney Phil And his inner circle pushed through the flora of fans at the Omni William Penn Hotel, his lodging of choice when he visits Pittsburgh.

Ahead of the big day on February 2, Phil’s role is less of a deity and more of an international pop star. To help keep Groundhog Day a free event, Phil leaves his zoo’s dock at Gobbler’s Knob – hampered this year after becoming a dad – for a series of promotions and fundraisers. This year, Groundhog went on a mini-tour, visiting the Pennsylvania Farm Show and meeting state representatives, hosting a talent show, promoting ACE equipment, and making an annual stop in Pittsburgh. ”(Pittsburgh City Party)

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