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You’re invited! A free panel on Pa.’s 2023 Supreme Court, judicial candidates

Join Spotlight PA on Oct. 12 to learn more about the candidates running for state Supreme Court and more, and what these elections will mean for you. Spotlight PA is an independent, nonpartisan, and nonprofit newsroom producing investigative and public-service journalism that holds the powerful to account and drives positive change in Pennsylvania. Sign up for our …

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New bills would let Pennsylvania local governments hire firms as managers

Advocates say allowing Pennsylvania municipalities to outsource management could improve public services while saving taxpayers money. by Min Xian of Spotlight PA State College This story was produced by the State College regional bureau of Spotlight PA, an independent, nonpartisan newsroom dedicated to investigative and public-service journalism for Pennsylvania. Sign up for our regional newsletter, Talk of …

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Five takeaways from Spotlight PA’s event on holding local Pennsylvania officials accountable

Local government officials, whether elected or appointed, shape residents’ lives in a range of ways. Here’s how to become involved in your municipality and what to do when problems arise. by Min Xian of Spotlight PA State College This story was produced by the State College regional bureau of Spotlight PA, an independent, nonpartisan newsroom …

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Property tax and rent rebate program will soon serve more older Pennsylvanians

The rebate program had not seen a full update since 2006 despite repeated bipartisan efforts to stem enrollment declines. by Charlotte Keith of Spotlight PA The Pennsylvania Capitol building in Harrisburg. Commonwealth Media Services Spotlight PA is an independent, nonpartisan newsroom powered by The Philadelphia Inquirer in partnership with PennLive/The Patriot-News, TribLIVE/Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, and WITF Public …

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Why Trump’s ‘fake electors’ in Pennsylvania are likely to avoid prosecution

In seven states, Trump allies sent electoral votes for him to Congress despite his loss. Some are facing investigations and criminal charges, but the saga has a twist in the Keystone State. by Carter Walker of Votebeat This article is made possible through Spotlight PA’s collaboration with Votebeat, a nonpartisan news organization covering local election administration and …

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Pa. is competing for billions to build hydrogen hubs. Will they really be green?

The Biden administration wants states to invest in hydrogen production to fight climate change, but regulating the industry is an emerging conflict in PA. by Kate Huangpu of Spotlight PA The dome of the Pennsylvania Capitol in Harrisburg. Commonwealth Media Services Spotlight PA is an independent, nonpartisan newsroom powered by The Philadelphia Inquirer in partnership with …

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Dark money group puts pressure on Pa. lawmakers after Shapiro vows voucher veto

The group running the attack ads, Commonwealth Action, is not required to disclose its donors. Spotlight PA is an independent, nonpartisan newsroom powered by The Philadelphia Inquirer in partnership with PennLive/The Patriot-News, TribLIVE/Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, and WITF Public Media. Sign up for our free newsletters. A screenshot from an ad against state House Majority Leader Matt Bradford paid …

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What’s Pa.’s past budget impasses can tell us about the current standoff

Spotlight PA is an independent, nonpartisan newsroom powered by The Philadelphia Inquirer in partnership with PennLive/The Patriot-News, TribLIVE/Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, and WITF Public Media. Sign up for our free newsletters. In the past 20 years, PA has passed 13 late budgets, including four impasses that went over 100 days. The Pennsylvania Capitol building in Harrisburg. Commonwealth Media Services …

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Adams misses out on state “Whole-Home Repairs” program

man standing infront of miter saw

by Charlotte Keith of Spotlight PA This story first appeared in The Investigator, a weekly newsletter by Spotlight PA featuring the best investigative and accountability journalism from across Pennsylvania. Sign up for free here. HARRISBURG — As a new $125 million Pennsylvania grant program for home repairs gets underway, demand is expected to be overwhelming, and …

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Pa. budget 2023: Your guide to what’s on the table, what comes next, and how to follow along

The Pennsylvania legislature has a June 30 deadline to complete a multibillion-dollar budget. Here’s what you need to know. Stephen Caruso of Spotlight PA Spotlight PA is an independent, nonpartisan newsroom powered by The Philadelphia Inquirer in partnership with PennLive/The Patriot-News, TribLIVE/Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, and WITF Public Media. Sign up for our free newsletters. The Pennsylvania State Capitol …

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Shapiro won’t share daily calendar, a departure from previous Pa. governor’s transparency

The Democratic governor’s decision to withhold details about who he meets behind the scenes is legally sound, though experts said he could choose to reveal more. Katie Meyer of Spotlight PA Commonwealth Media Services Spotlight PA is an independent, nonpartisan newsroom powered by The Philadelphia Inquirer in partnership with PennLive/The Patriot-News, TribLIVE/Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, and WITF Public …

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Pa. is sitting on billions in unclaimed property. This bill would get some of it back to its owners.

State Treasurer Stacy Garrity has proposed legislation that would allow Pa. to automatically return some unclaimed money to people with no action required on their part. Charlotte Keith of Spotlight PA Spotlight PA is an independent, nonpartisan newsroom powered by The Philadelphia Inquirer in partnership with PennLive/The Patriot-News, TribLIVE/Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, and WITF Public Media. Sign up for …

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Pa. primary election 2023: When to expect results, how vote counting will work, and more

Stephen Caruso of Spotlight PA Spotlight PA is an independent, nonpartisan newsroom powered by The Philadelphia Inquirer in partnership with PennLive/The Patriot-News, TribLIVE/Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, and WITF Public Media. Sign up for our free newsletters. Mail ballots are sorted and counted in Allentown, Pennsylvania, on Election Day, November 2022.Matt Smith / For Spotlight PA HARRISBURG — In the …

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Party affiliation can be misleading in local Pa. elections. Here’s why.

Spotlight PA is an independent, nonpartisan newsroom powered by The Philadelphia Inquirer in partnership with PennLive/The Patriot-News, TribLIVE/Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, and WITF Public Media. Sign up for our free newsletters. For decades, Pa. school board candidates have been able to run in both parties. But as races get more partisan, some lawmakers want to change that. …

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The Pa. legislature appears to have met a tax break it doesn’t like: one for teachers, nurses, and cops

Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro has proposed a tax credit for new teachers, nurses, and cops. Republicans are skeptical. Stephen Caruso of Spotlight PA Tom Gralish / Philadelphia Inquirer Spotlight PA is an independent, nonpartisan newsroom powered by The Philadelphia Inquirer in partnership with PennLive/The Patriot-News, TribLIVE/Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, and WITF Public Media. Sign up for our …

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Pa. doesn’t fund public defense. Shapiro’s budget would change that.

Danielle Ohl of Spotlight PA Spotlight PA is an independent, nonpartisan newsroom powered by The Philadelphia Inquirer in partnership with PennLive/The Patriot-News, TribLIVE/Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, and WITF Public Media. Sign up for our free newsletters. The Defender Association budget of more than $50 million helps employ about 500 attorneys and other staffers to provide indigent defense …

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Affordability remains top issue for Pa.’s state-related universities during budget process

Wyatt Massey of Spotlight PA State College This story was produced by the State College regional bureau of Spotlight PA, an independent, nonpartisan newsroom dedicated to investigative and public-service journalism for Pennsylvania. Sign up for our regional newsletter, Talk of the Town. Despite a funding boost, Pennsylvania’s state-related universities may still raise what is already …

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Expecting more than $1 billion in opioid settlement money, Pa. grapples with policing versus treatment

Ed Mahon of Spotlight PA and Kate Giammarise of WESA Spotlight PA is an independent, nonpartisan newsroom powered by The Philadelphia Inquirer in partnership with PennLive/The Patriot-News, TribLIVE/Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, and WITF Public Media. Sign up for our free newsletters. Opioid overdoses kill thousands of people each year in Pennsylvania, and settlement money is meant to …

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Pa. Medicaid re-enrollment: What you need to know to keep your health insurance or find other options

Katie Meyer of Spotlight PA Spotlight PA is an independent, nonpartisan newsroom powered by The Philadelphia Inquirer in partnership with PennLive/The Patriot-News, TribLIVE/Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, and WITF Public Media. Sign up for our free newsletters. HARRISBURG — If you’re one of the nearly 3.7 million Pennsylvanians who use Medicaid for health insurance, you’ll need to requalify …

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Almost 40 elementary schools have closed in rural north-central Pa. in the past decade. Here’s why.

Ashad Hajela of Spotlight PA State College This story was produced by the State College regional bureau of Spotlight PA, an independent, nonpartisan newsroom dedicated to investigative and public-service journalism for Pennsylvania. Sign up for our regional newsletter, Talk of the Town. Nate Smallwood / For Spotlight PA STATE COLLEGE — At least 38 elementary …

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Pa. primary election 2023: A complete guide to the candidates for Commonwealth and Superior Courts

Stephen Caruso of Spotlight PA and Kate Huangpu of Spotlight PA Spotlight PA is an independent, nonpartisan newsroom powered by The Philadelphia Inquirer in partnership with PennLive/The Patriot-News, TribLIVE/Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, and WITF Public Media. Sign up for our free newsletters. HARRISBURG — In May, Democrats and Republicans will choose their parties’ candidates for three vacant …

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Pa. primary election 2023: A complete guide to the candidates for state Supreme Court

Kate Huangpu of Spotlight PA Spotlight PA is an independent, nonpartisan newsroom powered by The Philadelphia Inquirer in partnership with PennLive/The Patriot-News, TribLIVE/Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, and WITF Public Media. Sign up for our free newsletters. HARRISBURG — During Pennsylvania’s primary election in May, Democrats and Republicans will choose their parties’ nominees to fill a seat on …

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Key senator’s record on election policy has Democrats, voting advocates worried passing reform will be difficult

Carter Walker of Votebeat This article is made possible through Spotlight PA’s collaboration with Votebeat, a nonpartisan news organization covering local election administration and voting. This article is available for reprint under the terms of Votebeat’s republishing policy. As the legislature returns to work after a slow start to the session, progressive advocates and Democratic …

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Six years after hazing death, Penn State plans to drop the Greek life oversight it championed

Wyatt Massey of Spotlight PA State College This story was produced by the State College regional bureau of Spotlight PA, an independent, nonpartisan newsroom dedicated to investigative and public-service journalism for Pennsylvania. Sign up for our regional newsletter, Talk of the Town. STATE COLLEGE — Penn State is quietly planning to roll back its oversight …

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Joanna McClinton elected first female speaker of the Pa. House as Mark Rozzi steps down

by Stephen Caruso of Spotlight PA | Feb. 28, 2023 Spotlight PA is an independent, nonpartisan newsroom powered by The Philadelphia Inquirer in partnership with PennLive/The Patriot-News, TribLIVE/Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, and WITF Public Media. Sign up for our free newsletters. Democrat Joanna McClinton was elected the first female speaker of the Pennsylvania House on Tuesday after …

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Mark Rozzi says he will step down as speaker of the Pennsylvania House

By Stephen Caruso of Spotlight PA Spotlight PA is an independent, nonpartisan newsroom powered by The Philadelphia Inquirer in partnership with PennLive/The Patriot-News, TribLIVE/Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, and WITF Public Media. Sign up for our free newsletters. HARRISBURG — Democrat Mark Rozzi plans to step down as speaker of the Pennsylvania House after two tumultuous months presiding …

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Shapiro admin contends taking Super Bowl tickets from group that gets state money didn’t violate governor’s own gift ban

Kate Huangpu of Spotlight PA and Stephen Caruso of Spotlight PA Spotlight PA is an independent, nonpartisan newsroom powered by The Philadelphia Inquirer in partnership with PennLive/The Patriot-News, TribLIVE/Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, and WITF Public Media. Sign up for our free newsletters. HARRISBURG — The Shapiro administration insists the governor did not violate his own gift ban …

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What the public can and can’t know about Four Diamonds, beneficiary of Penn State THON’s fundraising

Wyatt Massey of Spotlight PA This story was produced by the State College regional bureau of Spotlight PA, an independent, nonpartisan newsroom dedicated to investigative and public-service journalism for Pennsylvania. Sign up for our regional newsletter, Talk of the Town. STATE COLLEGE — For years, thousands of Penn State students have participated in a grueling …

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5 ways Pa.’s marijuana laws could change in 2023

green plants on white metal frame

by Ed Mahon of Spotlight PA Spotlight PA is an independent, nonpartisan newsroom powered by The Philadelphia Inquirer in partnership with PennLive/The Patriot-News, TribLIVE/Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, and WITF Public Media. Sign up for our free newsletters. HARRISBURG — As the legislative session picks up, Pennsylvania lawmakers are considering a host of changes to the state’s cannabis …

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Tracking Josh Shapiro’s biggest campaign promises

Kate Huangpu of Spotlight PA Spotlight PA is an independent, nonpartisan newsroom powered by The Philadelphia Inquirer in partnership with PennLive/The Patriot-News, TribLIVE/Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, and WITF Public Media. Sign up for our free newsletters. Tom Gralish / Philadelphia Inquirer HARRISBURG — Gov. Josh Shapiro made a lot of promises on the campaign trail. Now, he …

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Democrats sweep special elections, affirming first Pa. House majority in 12 years

Stephen Caruso of Spotlight PA Spotlight PA is an independent, nonpartisan newsroom powered by The Philadelphia Inquirer in partnership with PennLive/The Patriot-News, TribLIVE/Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, and WITF Public Media. Sign up for our free newsletters. HARRISBURG — Democrats have swept three Allegheny County special elections, cementing their one-vote majority in the Pennsylvania state House and ending …

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Hopes of bipartisan cooperation give way to complete deadlock in the Pa. House

Stephen Caruso of Spotlight PA Spotlight PA is an independent, nonpartisan newsroom powered by The Philadelphia Inquirer in partnership with PennLive/The Patriot-News, TribLIVE/Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, and WITF Public Media. Sign up for our free newsletters. HARRISBURG — The Pennsylvania House officially adjourned Tuesday until late February, almost certainly ending any chance of voters seeing constitutional amendments …

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How communities in north-central Pa. are attempting to preserve a scarce resource: darkness

Ashad Hajela of Spotlight PA State College This story was produced by the State College regional bureau of Spotlight PA, an independent, nonpartisan newsroom dedicated to investigative and public-service journalism for Pennsylvania. Sign up for our regional newsletter, Talk of the Town. Communities in north-central Pennsylvania are taking action to limit outdoor artificial lighting that …

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Josh Shapiro sworn in as governor

Kate Huangpu of Spotlight PA and Katie Meyer of Spotlight PA Spotlight PA is an independent, nonpartisan newsroom powered by The Philadelphia Inquirer in partnership with PennLive/The Patriot-News, TribLIVE/Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, and WITF Public Media. Sign up for our free newsletters. HARRISBURG — In his first moments as Pennsylvania’s 48th governor, Democrat Josh Shapiro touted his …

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No significant changes found in hand recount of 2020 presidential election in Pa.’s Lycoming County

By Carter Walker of Votebeat This article is made possible through Spotlight PA’s collaboration with Votebeat, a nonpartisan news organization covering local election administration and voting. This article is available for reprint under the terms of Votebeat’s republishing policy. A recount of the 2020 presidential race conducted this week in a Pennsylvania county did not …

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This Pa. county is about to start a hand recount of its 2020 presidential election results

This article is made possible through Spotlight PA’s collaboration with Votebeat, a nonpartisan news organization covering local election administration and voting. This article is available for reprint under the terms of Votebeat’s republishing policy. More than two years after the last ballot was cast in the 2020 election, Lycoming County plans to recount all presidential …

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What Mark Rozzi’s record can tell us about what kind of Pa. House speaker he’ll be

Spotlight PA is an independent, nonpartisan newsroom powered by The Philadelphia Inquirer in partnership with PennLive/The Patriot-News, TribLIVE/Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, and WITF Public Media. Sign up for our free newsletters. HARRISBURG — In the Pennsylvania Capitol, no other issue defines the legislative career of newly minted state House Speaker Mark Rozzi more than helping survivors of …

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Who will lead the Pennsylvania House? Lawmakers will soon decide as power struggle continues

Katie Meyer of Spotlight PA Spotlight PA is an independent, nonpartisan newsroom powered by The Philadelphia Inquirer in partnership with PennLive/The Patriot-News, TribLIVE/Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, and WITF Public Media. Sign up for our free newsletters. HARRISBURG — Lawmakers in Pennsylvania’s state House are scheduled to elect a new speaker Tuesday. But unlike in most legislative sessions, …

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3 key takeaways from Spotlight PA’s investigation of how a local government nearly collapsed after hiring Tamir Rice’s killer

By Min Xian of Spotlight PA State College This story was produced by the State College regional bureau of Spotlight PA, an independent, nonpartisan newsroom dedicated to investigative and public-service journalism for Pennsylvania. Sign up for our regional newsletter, Talk of the Town. A five-month investigation by Spotlight PA detailed how the government of Tioga, …

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Pa. Republicans fight to prolong House majority and pass far-reaching constitutional amendments

Stephen Caruso of Spotlight PA Spotlight PA is an independent, nonpartisan newsroom powered by The Philadelphia Inquirer in partnership with PennLive/The Patriot-News, TribLIVE/Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, and WITF Public Media. Sign up for our free newsletters. HARRISBURG — Republicans in Pennsylvania’s state House could hold a functional majority until at least mid-February thanks to Democratic vacancies — …

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Wolf backs regulatory change that would formalize discrimination protections for LGBTQ Pennsylvanians

Stephen Caruso of Spotlight PA Spotlight PA is an independent, nonpartisan newsroom powered by The Philadelphia Inquirer in partnership with PennLive/The Patriot-News, TribLIVE/Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, and WITF Public Media. Sign up for our free newsletters. HARRISBURG — In the closing days of his final term in office, Gov. Tom Wolf is backing a regulatory change that …

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In tussle for Pennsylvania House leadership, parties clash over math and precedent

Stephen Caruso of Spotlight PA Spotlight PA is an independent, nonpartisan newsroom powered by The Philadelphia Inquirer in partnership with PennLive/The Patriot-News, TribLIVE/Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, and WITF Public Media. Sign up for our free newsletters. HARRISBURG — Calculating which party controls a legislative chamber normally requires simple math. But less than a month after the critical …

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Rejecting undated mail ballots disproportionately impacts communities of color in Pa., data shows

This article is made possible through Spotlight PA’s collaboration with Votebeat, a nonpartisan news organization covering local election administration and voting. This article is available for reprint under the terms of Votebeat’s republishing policy. Pennsylvania’s policy of rejecting undated and incorrectly dated absentee and mail ballots is more likely to impact voters from communities with …

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Nonpartisan journalism is vital to the future of Pa. Here’s how you can keep it going.

Christopher Baxter of Spotlight PA Spotlight PA is an independent, nonpartisan newsroom powered by The Philadelphia Inquirer in partnership with PennLive/The Patriot-News, TribLIVE/Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, and WITF Public Media. Sign up for our free newsletters. Huge stories will shape Pennsylvania’s future next year. With a new administration in the governor’s office and a shift in power …

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The post-election review designed to give Pa. voters more confidence in the results, explained

This article is made possible through Spotlight PA’s collaboration with Votebeat, a nonpartisan news organization covering local election administration and voting. This article is available for reprint under the terms of Votebeat’s republishing policy. A person approaches the table and picks up a 10-sided die. She rolls. Four. The next roller in line takes her …

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The Democratic takeover of the Pa. House will be a little messy to start. Here’s why.

Stephen Caruso of Spotlight PA Spotlight PA is an independent, nonpartisan newsroom powered by The Philadelphia Inquirer in partnership with PennLive/The Patriot-News, TribLIVE/Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, and WITF Public Media. Sign up for our free newsletters. HARRISBURG — The Democrats have won control of the Pennsylvania House, but the party will need to rely on Republican support …

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Democrats win control of Pennsylvania state House after picking up 12 seats

Stephen Caruso of Spotlight PA and Katie Meyer of Spotlight PA Spotlight PA is an independent, nonpartisan newsroom powered by The Philadelphia Inquirer in partnership with PennLive/The Patriot-News, TribLIVE/Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, and WITF Public Media. Sign up for our free newsletters. HARRISBURG — Democrats have won control of the Pennsylvania state House for the first time …

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Have Democrats flipped the Pa. House? The latest on the deciding races.

Katie Meyer of Spotlight PA Spotlight PA is an independent, nonpartisan newsroom powered by The Philadelphia Inquirer in partnership with PennLive/The Patriot-News, TribLIVE/Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, and WITF Public Media. Sign up for our free newsletters. HARRISBURG — With control of the Pennsylvania state House on the line, attorneys for Democratic and Republican candidates in two close, …

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After losing by a landslide, Mastriano won’t concede to Shapiro

Stephen Caruso of Spotlight PA, Angela Couloumbis of Spotlight PA, Kate Huangpu of Spotlight PA and Katie Meyer of Spotlight PA Spotlight PA is an independent, nonpartisan newsroom powered by The Philadelphia Inquirer in partnership with PennLive/The Patriot-News, TribLIVE/Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, and WITF Public Media. Sign up for our free newsletters. Republican Doug Mastriano had yet …

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Democrats believe they will take control of the Pennsylvania House for the first time in more than a decade

Stephen Caruso of Spotlight PA and Kate Huangpu of Spotlight PA Spotlight PA is an independent, nonpartisan newsroom powered by The Philadelphia Inquirer in partnership with PennLive/The Patriot-News, TribLIVE/Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, and WITF Public Media. Sign up for our free newsletters. HARRISBURG — Pennsylvania Democrats believe they will win enough state House seats after Tuesday’s midterm …

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Democrat Josh Shapiro elected governor of Pennsylvania, defeating Republican Doug Mastriano

Katie Meyer of Spotlight PA Spotlight PA is an independent, nonpartisan newsroom powered by The Philadelphia Inquirer in partnership with PennLive/The Patriot-News, TribLIVE/Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, and WITF Public Media. Sign up for our free newsletters. HARRISBURG — Democrat Josh Shapiro has won the election to be Pennsylvania’s 48th governor, cruising to a decisive victory over far-right …

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2022 Pa. election: A last-minute guide to everything you need to know to vote Nov. 8

By Kate Huangpu of Spotlight PA Spotlight PA is an independent, nonpartisan newsroom powered by The Philadelphia Inquirer in partnership with PennLive/The Patriot-News, TribLIVE/Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, and WITF Public Media. Sign up for our free newsletters. HARRISBURG — Election Day 2022 is approaching and Spotlight PA wants to make sure you’re equipped with the knowledge you’ll …

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Why are undated mail ballots such a big deal in Pennsylvania?

Katie Meyer of Spotlight PA Spotlight PA is an independent, nonpartisan newsroom powered by The Philadelphia Inquirer in partnership with PennLive/The Patriot-News, TribLIVE/Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, and WITF Public Media. Sign up for our free newsletters. HARRISBURG — Pennsylvania’s Supreme Court is expected to soon rule on a case that could decide whether undated mail ballots can …

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Pa. election 2022: Where governor candidates Mastriano and Shapiro stand on mail ballots, election security, and voting rights

Katie Meyer of Spotlight PA Spotlight PA is an independent, nonpartisan newsroom powered by The Philadelphia Inquirer in partnership with PennLive/The Patriot-News, TribLIVE/Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, and WITF Public Media. Sign up for our free newsletters. HARRISBURG — Pennsylvania’s next governor will have a lot of power over the way elections are run, and the two major …

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Pa. election 2022: How redistricting could alter control of the legislature and other changes to watch Nov. 8

Kate Huangpu of Spotlight PA and Stephen Caruso of Spotlight PA Spotlight PA is an independent, nonpartisan newsroom powered by The Philadelphia Inquirer in partnership with PennLive/The Patriot-News, TribLIVE/Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, and WITF Public Media. Sign up for our free newsletters. HARRISBURG — It’s showtime for Pennsylvania’s brand-new legislative districts. The revamped state House and Senate …

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Wolf administration insists undated mail ballots will be valid this November as counties proceed with caution

Katie Meyer of Spotlight PA Spotlight PA is an independent, nonpartisan newsroom powered by The Philadelphia Inquirer in partnership with PennLive/The Patriot-News, TribLIVE/Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, and WITF Public Media. Sign up for our free newsletters. HARRISBURG — Pennsylvania’s top election official is doubling down on guidance that directs county officials to count undated mail ballots during …

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How well a death in Pennsylvania will be investigated depends largely on where someone dies

Ashad Hajela of Spotlight PA State College This story was produced by the State College regional bureau of Spotlight PA, an independent, nonpartisan newsroom dedicated to investigative and public-service journalism for Pennsylvania. Sign up for our regional newsletter, Talk of the Town. STATE COLLEGE — In one Pennsylvania county, the coroner’s office relies on an …

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Pa. election 2022: Where governor candidates Mastriano, Shapiro stand on rural health care, broadband, and agriculture

Ashad Hajela and Min Xian of Spotlight PA State College Spotlight PA is an independent, nonpartisan newsroom powered by The Philadelphia Inquirer in partnership with PennLive/The Patriot-News, TribLIVE/Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, and WITF Public Media. Sign up for our free newsletters. HARRISBURG — People who live in rural Pennsylvania face unique barriers to health care, broadband, and …

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Pa. Election Day 2022: A complete guide to the Nov. 8 election, including how to vote, find your polling place, understand mail ballots, and more

Kate Huangpu of Spotlight PA Spotlight PA is an independent, nonpartisan newsroom powered by The Philadelphia Inquirer in partnership with PennLive/The Patriot-News, TribLIVE/Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, and WITF Public Media. Sign up for our free newsletters. HARRISBURG — On Nov. 8, Pennsylvanians will make their way to polling places to decide the governor’s race and U.S. Senate …

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Pa. election 2022: Where governor candidates Mastriano, Shapiro stand on the opioid epidemic, medical marijuana, and other health issues

By Ed Mahon of Spotlight PA Spotlight PA is an independent, nonpartisan newsroom powered by The Philadelphia Inquirer in partnership with PennLive/The Patriot-News, TribLIVE/Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, and WITF Public Media. Sign up for our free newsletters. HARRISBURG — As a freshman state senator, Doug Mastriano (R., Franklin) rose to prominence by vocally opposing the Wolf administration’s …

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Elecciones de Pa. 2022: Una guía básica para investigar a los candidatos al Senado, a gobernador y a otros cargos

Spotlight PA is an independent, nonpartisan newsroom powered by The Philadelphia Inquirer in partnership with PennLive/The Patriot-News, TribLIVE/Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, and WITF Public Media. Sign up for our free newsletters. Ethan Edward Coston of Spotlight PA Traducido por Nikola Johnson y editado por Ana Graciela Méndez. HARRISBURG — Todas las miradas estarán puestas en Pensylvania en …

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Unresolved gray areas in Pa. mail voting law likely to spur fresh confusion, legal challenges

Stephen Caruso of Spotlight PA and Katie Meyer of Spotlight PA Spotlight PA is an independent, nonpartisan newsroom powered by The Philadelphia Inquirer in partnership with PennLive/The Patriot-News, TribLIVE/Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, and WITF Public Media. Sign up for our free newsletters. HARRISBURG — As millions of Pennsylvanians once again go to the polls this November, some …

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Pa. election 2022: Where governor candidates Mastriano, Shapiro stand on energy and the environment

Kate Huangpu of Spotlight PA Spotlight PA is an independent, nonpartisan newsroom powered by The Philadelphia Inquirer in partnership with PennLive/The Patriot-News, TribLIVE/Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, and WITF Public Media. Sign up for our free newsletters. In Pennsylvania, it’s usually not a question of whether a statewide candidate is supportive of the oil and gas industry but …

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Gettysburg resident Lefty Biser among Pa. voters who haven’t missed a single November election for at least 50 years

By Colin Deppen of Spotlight PA This story first appeared in Spotlight PA’s PA Local newsletter, a fresh, positive look at the incredible people, beautiful places, and delicious food Pennsylvania has to offer. Sign up for free. HARRISBURG — Gareth Biser of Gettysburg hasn’t missed a November election since he cast his first vote for …

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Pa. election 2022: There will be no constitutional amendments on the Nov. 8 ballot, but big ones are looming

Angela Couloumbis of Spotlight PA Spotlight PA is an independent, nonpartisan newsroom powered by The Philadelphia Inquirer in partnership with PennLive/The Patriot-News, TribLIVE/Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, and WITF Public Media. Sign up for our free newsletters. HARRISBURG — Pennsylvania voters will not see any proposed constitutional amendments on this year’s November ballot, but that is almost certain …

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Pa. election 2022: How to serve as a poll worker on Nov. 8

Kate Huangpu of Spotlight PA Spotlight PA is an independent, nonpartisan newsroom powered by The Philadelphia Inquirer in partnership with PennLive/The Patriot-News, TribLIVE/Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, and WITF Public Media. Sign up for our free newsletters. HARRISBURG — When Pennsylvania holds its 2022 general election in November, thousands of poll workers will ensure that voting runs smoothly. …

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Skill games company woos Pa. lawmakers with trips to wild Wyoming rodeo

Angela Couloumbis of Spotlight PA Spotlight PA is an independent, nonpartisan newsroom powered by The Philadelphia Inquirer in partnership with PennLive/The Patriot-News, TribLIVE/Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, and WITF Public Media. Sign up for our free newsletters. HARRISBURG — “It’s the sounds, the lights, the competition or the experience of a lifetime. Everyone comes for a different reason …

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Regular private meetings among top Penn State trustees may be violating Pa.’s transparency law

Wyatt Massey of Spotlight PA State College This story was produced by the State College regional bureau of Spotlight PA, an independent, nonpartisan newsroom dedicated to investigative and public-service journalism for Pennsylvania. Sign up for our regional newsletter, Talk of the Town. STATE COLLEGE — For more than a decade, some of the most powerful …

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Pa. election 2022: Your complete guide to the candidates for governor

Stephen Caruso of Spotlight PA, Ethan Edward Coston of Spotlight PA and Angela Couloumbis of Spotlight PA Spotlight PA is an independent, nonpartisan newsroom powered by The Philadelphia Inquirer in partnership with PennLive/The Patriot-News, TribLIVE/Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, and WITF Public Media. Sign up for our free newsletters. HARRISBURG — The 2022 election for Pennsylvania governor is …

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How Harrisburg Works: The rules for Pa. lawmaker per diems, speaker v. leader, and other Q&As

Stephen Caruso of Spotlight PA Spotlight PA is an independent, nonpartisan newsroom powered by The Philadelphia Inquirer in partnership with PennLive/The Patriot-News, TribLIVE/Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, and WITF Public Media. Sign up for our free newsletters. HARRISBURG — The Pennsylvania Capitol is a convoluted place. Spotlight PA’s Stephen Caruso wants to help you understand how the sausage …

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Pa. lawmakers spent at least $3 million on private lawyers, experts during redistricting battle, invoices show

Kate Huangpu of Spotlight PA Spotlight PA is an independent, nonpartisan newsroom powered by The Philadelphia Inquirer in partnership with PennLive/The Patriot-News, TribLIVE/Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, and WITF Public Media. Sign up for our free newsletters. HARRISBURG — Pennsylvania state lawmakers spent at least $3 million in taxpayer money on outside law firms and experts as they …

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The business of volunteer fire companies has become harder to sustain. Can collaboration help?

Min Xian of Spotlight PA State College This story was produced by the State College regional bureau of Spotlight PA, an independent, nonpartisan newsroom dedicated to investigative and public-service journalism for Pennsylvania. Sign up for our regional newsletter, Talk of the Town. BENNER TOWNSHIP — Volunteer fire companies face many common stressors in funding and staffing. Is …

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Your license plate frame is enough for police in Pa. to pull you over, court rules

Angela Couloumbis of Spotlight PA Spotlight PA is an independent, nonpartisan newsroom powered by The Philadelphia Inquirer in partnership with PennLive/The Patriot-News, TribLIVE/Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, and WITF Public Media. Sign up for our free newsletters. HARRISBURG — Thousands of drivers in Pennsylvania could now be at greater risk of getting pulled over by police — all …

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Pa. lawmakers weigh bill that would allow independents to vote on primary candidates

Spotlight PA is an independent, nonpartisan newsroom powered by The Philadelphia Inquirer in partnership with PennLive/The Patriot-News, TribLIVE/Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, and WITF Public Media. Sign up for our free newsletters. Kate Huangpu of Spotlight PA HARRISBURG — Former elected officials and government experts told a panel of state lawmakers that Pennsylvania’s primary system should be opened …

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Pa. Supreme Court upholds no-excuse mail voting ahead of midterms

Stephen Caruso of Spotlight PA and Angela Couloumbis of Spotlight PA Spotlight PA is an independent, nonpartisan newsroom powered by The Philadelphia Inquirer in partnership with PennLive/The Patriot-News, TribLIVE/Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, and WITF Public Media. Sign up for our free newsletters. HARRISBURG — The state Supreme Court has upheld Pennsylvania’s mail ballot law, preserving for the …

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New Pa. budget injects $125M into private school tax credit program that lacks basic accountability

Spotlight PA is an independent, nonpartisan newsroom powered by The Philadelphia Inquirer in partnership with PennLive/The Patriot-News, TribLIVE/Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, and WITF Public Media. Sign up for our free newsletters. HARRISBURG — When Gov. Tom Wolf and the Republican-led legislature hammered out the $45.2 billion budget deal in early July, they delivered a historic windfall to …

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Pennsylvania has a new child care tax credit. Here’s what you need to know.

By Kate Huangpu of Spotlight PA Spotlight PA is an independent, nonpartisan newsroom powered by The Philadelphia Inquirer in partnership with PennLive/The Patriot-News, TribLIVE/Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, and WITF Public Media. Sign up for our free newsletters. HARRISBURG — Gov. Tom Wolf has approved a new, permanent child care tax credit that will allow families to claim …

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School districts get big boost in new PA budget

Stephen Caruso of Spotlight PA and Kate Huangpu of Spotlight PA Spotlight PA is an independent, nonpartisan newsroom powered by The Philadelphia Inquirer in partnership with PennLive/The Patriot-News, TribLIVE/Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, and WITF Public Media. Sign up for our free newsletters. HARRISBURG — Pennsylvania lawmakers have sent Democratic Gov. Tom Wolf a $45.2 billion spending plan …

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Pa. House Republicans want to block state funding for the University of Pittsburgh over fetal tissue research

By Stephen Caruso of Spotlight PA Spotlight PA is an independent, nonpartisan newsroom powered by The Philadelphia Inquirer in partnership with PennLive/The Patriot-News, TribLIVE/Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, and WITF Public Media. Sign up for our free newsletters. HARRISBURG — A proxy fight over abortion led by state House Republicans jeopardizes hundreds of millions of dollars in tuition assistance …

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Top Pa. lawmakers have tentative deal to ban private money, increase funding for county election offices

By Stephen Caruso of Spotlight PA Spotlight PA is an independent, nonpartisan newsroom powered by The Philadelphia Inquirer in partnership with PennLive/The Patriot-News, TribLIVE/Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, and WITF Public Media. Sign up for our free newsletters. HARRISBURG — Top Pennsylvania lawmakers have struck a tentative deal to get private money out of election administration. The exact …

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Facing pressure from Democrats, Pa. panel avoids considering gun bills in wake of mass shootings

Stephen Caruso of Spotlight PA Spotlight PA is an independent, nonpartisan newsroom powered by The Philadelphia Inquirer in partnership with PennLive/The Patriot-News, TribLIVE/Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, and WITF Public Media. Sign up for our free newsletters. HARRISBURG — A state House panel punted on considering a slate of gun bills Monday, instead sending them to another committee …

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Candidates of color say they need more party support, financial backing to be successful in Pa.

By Kate Huangpu of Spotlight PA Spotlight PA is an independent, nonpartisan newsroom powered by The Philadelphia Inquirer in partnership with PennLive/The Patriot-News, TribLIVE/Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, and WITF Public Media. Sign up for our free newsletters. HARRISBURG — Neither Omy Maldonado nor Yamelisa Taveras had run for office before May of this year. Maldonado is a …

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An obscure state law could blunt the impact of up to $1 billion in federal funding for Pennsylvania’s broadband expansion

By Charlotte Keith of Spotlight PA Spotlight PA is an independent, nonpartisan newsroom powered by The Philadelphia Inquirer in partnership with PennLive/The Patriot-News, TribLIVE/Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, and WITF Public Media. Sign up for our free newsletters. An obscure provision tucked into Pennsylvania law nearly two decades ago could complicate the state’s access to a massive influx …

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How a mail ballot ruling in Pa. could affect 2022 primary election results

By Stephen Caruso of Spotlight PA Spotlight PA is an independent, nonpartisan newsroom powered by The Philadelphia Inquirer in partnership with PennLive/The Patriot-News, TribLIVE/Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, and WITF Public Media. Sign up for our free newsletters. HARRISBURG — A federal appeals court ruled Friday that election officials in one Pennsylvania county must count legally cast mail …

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How Doug Mastriano built a grassroots movement in Pa. on election denial, Christianity, and Facebook

Stephen Caruso of Spotlight PA and Ethan Edward Coston of Spotlight PA Spotlight PA is an independent, nonpartisan newsroom powered by The Philadelphia Inquirer in partnership with PennLive/The Patriot-News, TribLIVE/Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, and WITF Public Media. Sign up for our free newsletters. HARRISBURG — Two years ago, one Republican operative responded to the thought of a …

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Pa. primary 2022: Doug Mastriano wins GOP nomination for governor, will face Democrat Josh Shapiro

Amanda Berg / For Spotlight PA Spotlight PA is an independent, nonpartisan newsroom powered by The Philadelphia Inquirer in partnership with PennLive/The Patriot-News, TribLIVE/Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, and WITF Public Media. Sign up for our free newsletters. HARRISBURG — Doug Mastriano is the projected winner of Pennsylvania’s Republican primary for governor, defeating a crowded field in a …

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Despite high vaccination rates among Pa. prisoners, some COVID restrictions remain in place

Danielle Ohl of Spotlight PA Spotlight PA is an independent, nonpartisan newsroom powered by The Philadelphia Inquirer in partnership with PennLive/The Patriot-News, TribLIVE/Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, and WITF Public Media. Sign up for our free newsletters. HARRISBURG — More than two years after the first coronavirus cases were reported in Pennsylvania state prisons, some of the mitigation …

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Pa. primary 2022: A last-minute guide to everything you need to know to vote May 17

Kate Huangpu of Spotlight PA Spotlight PA is an independent, nonpartisan newsroom powered by The Philadelphia Inquirer in partnership with PennLive/The Patriot-News, TribLIVE/Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, and WITF Public Media. Sign up for our free newsletters. HARRISBURG — On May 17, Democrats and Republicans in Pennsylvania will vote for candidates running in local and statewide races. The …

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Pa. Election Day 2022: A complete guide to the May 17 primary, including how to vote, find your polling place, understand mail-in ballots, and more

By Kate Huangpu of Spotlight PA Spotlight PA is an independent, nonpartisan newsroom powered by The Philadelphia Inquirer in partnership with PennLive/The Patriot-News, TribLIVE/Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, and WITF Public Media. Sign up for our free newsletters. HARRISBURG — More than a few things have changed since Pennsylvanians last went to the polls. Your congressional and legislative …

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Pa. primary election 2022: 5 takeaways from Spotlight PA’s Republican gubernatorial debate

By Ethan Edward Coston of Spotlight PA and Kate Huangpu of Spotlight PA Spotlight PA is an independent, nonpartisan newsroom powered by The Philadelphia Inquirer in partnership with PennLive/The Patriot-News, TribLIVE/Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, and WITF Public Media. Sign up for our free newsletters. HARRISBURG — Five of the nine Republican candidates running to be Pennsylvania’s next …

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Pa. primary election 2022: Your guide to the Democratic and GOP candidates for governor

By Kate Huangpu of Spotlight PA and Ethan Edward Coston of Spotlight PA Spotlight PA is an independent, nonpartisan newsroom powered by The Philadelphia Inquirer in partnership with PennLive/The Patriot-News, TribLIVE/Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, and WITF Public Media. Sign up for our free newsletters. HARRISBURG — When Democrats head to the polls on May 17 for Pennsylvania’s …

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