Pennsylvania Democrats are in striking distance of taking control of the state House, Spotlight PA reports with The Philadelphia Inquirer.

Buoyed by President Donald Trump's unpopularity in the suburbs, strategists in both parties see a path for Democrats to pick up a net gain of nine seats to win the majority. The nonpartisan Cook Political Report recently moved the 203-seat chamber from Lean Republican to Toss Up.

The Senate, however, will be a tougher battle. Democrats there need to gain four seats, but Republicans are slightly favored. Still, experts aren't ruling out a total Democratic takeover.

The Context: The GOP took over the state House in 2010 and built up significant advantages there and in the Senate during President Barack Obama's presidency. But, thanks in large part to Trump, Democrats are eyeing a return to majority power in 2020.

A lot is on the line. The legislature will face some unique challenges in the coming year, including continued budget shortfalls, how to address the coronavirus, and redrawing congressional districts. 

It's also the last chance for Gov. Tom Wolf to have total party control, allowing him the votes he needs to execute his progressive agenda during his last two years in office. That's likely a big motivating factor for Republicans. With no more straight-ticket voting, there is a contingent of voters who might abandon Trump for Biden but not also support state Democratic candidates.

Wolf is fighting for control with some serious cash. A new Spotlight PA analysis of campaign finance reports shows the Democratic governor's political committee has spent $2.8 million on state House and Senate races this year. Republican-leaning groups are countering with cash of their own.

Just four committees, including Wolf's, have alone spent more than $16.9 million in 2020. While some went to other races, such as for attorney general, the figure gives a window into the high-stakes legislative contest.

If ever you were doubting it, your vote means a lot this year. Today at 5 p.m. is the deadline to request a mail-in ballot. If you already have one, officials are uring you to mail it immediately. With ongoing court challenges, there is no guarantee mail-in ballots will be counted if they arrive after Nov. 3.

“I read in the Bible, my Kingdom is not of this world. As followers of Jesus, we don’t believe in political power.” 

TWO YEARS AGO: Today marks the second anniversary of the Tree of Life synagogue shooting, which left 11 people dead. The city of Pittsburgh is asking people to observe a moment of silence at 9:54 a.m., while there will be a virtual remembrance at 7 p.m.

SAVED YOU 40 CLICKS: Obviously, you're not the type of person who gives out apples or — gasp! — toothbrushes on Halloween. No, you wanna give the kids what they really want. And according to a really long slideshow of the most popular candy in each state, that's Hershey's mini bars in Pennsylvania. 

LITTLE HELPERS: Stuck at home but trying to make the best of it? Teach your little ones some simple cooking skills. No kids at home? Honestly, this mac and cheese recipe still sounds pretty good.

TOASTED: Restaurants across the state are looking to get creative as the chilly weather sets in but indoor dining is still restricted. The ideas are as simple as providing blankets and as unique as building greenhouses. 

SEE YOU NEVER? A corn maze in Lancaster County was just named one of the toughest in the nation. Good luck getting out!