Election Day 2023: What to watch for in Pennsylvania, New Jersey and more
Voters across the country headed to the polls Tuesday to cast their ballots for a slew of local races, which could provide early implications for the 2024 election.
While off-year state and local elections don’t receive the same attention as presidential contests, here’s a quick guide on what you need to know about key races impacting the country.
Open Supreme Court seat in Pennsylvania
With Pennsylvania anticipated to be one of several swing states that could determine the winner of 2024’s presidential election, many voters are watching a race involving an open seat on the state's Supreme Court. Republican Carolyn Carluccio is challenging Democrat Daniel McCaffery in hopes of bringing Republicans a step closer to winning a court majority.
Pennsylvania Democrats currently hold a 4-2 majority on their state’s Supreme Court, after President Biden won the swing state by a narrow margin in 2020. The general election in Pennsylvania is being held Tuesday. Polls close at 8 p.m. ET.
Republicans vying to control New Jersey's legislature
All 120 New Jersey legislative seats are on the ballot, as voters wrap up casting ballots in Tuesday's general election. Democrats hold a 25-15 seat advantage in the Senate and have a 46-34 majority in the Assembly.
Republicans are fighting for control over either chamber, which has been controlled by Democrats for more than two decades. The New Jersey Legislature is made up of two Houses: an 80-member General Assembly and a 40-member Senate. Polls close in New Jersey on Tuesday at 8 p.m. ET.
Marijuana and abortion results in Ohio
In Ohio, voters are being asked about two state-wide issues: whether to guarantee abortion access and legalize the recreational use of marijuana. After the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade last year, the state is considering a proposed constitutional amendment that would establish abortion protections in "Issue 1" of the ballot.
On "Issue 2" on the statewide ballot, it would allow adults 21 and over to buy and possess up to 2.5 ounces of cannabis and to grow plants at home. In addition, a 10% tax would be imposed on purchases. Ohio would become the 24th state to allow adults to use cannabis if it passes.
The general election in Ohio will be held Tuesday. Polls close at 7:30 p.m. ET.
Mississippi governor’s race
In Mississippi, there is a tight race for governor on Tuesday, as Democratic candidate Brandon Presley is making a strong run at the incumbent Republican governor, Tate Reeves. Historically, the state votes for the Republican candidate in a presidential election.
Presley, who is the second cousin of rock-and-roll legend Elvis Presley, was just one point behind of Reeves in a recent poll. Mississippi is holding its general election on Tuesday, with polls closing statewide at 8 p.m. ET.
Virginia General Assembly
Control for Virginia's state Legislature is up for grabs, with all 140 seats in the Virginia General Assembly up for reelection. Republicans currently hold a narrow majority in the state House and Democrats are leading the state Senate.
In the Senate, Democrats hold a 22-18 edge, and in the House of Delegates, Republicans hold a 52-48 edge. Control of both chambers would clear the way for Republican Gov. Glenn Youngkin to implement a ban on abortions after 15 weeks of pregnancy with some exceptions.
Polls close at 7 p.m. on Tuesday in Virginia.
More: This Delaware 2024 political race just got even more competitive: The Press Room
Contact reporter Cameron Goodnight at cgoodnight@delawareonline.com or by calling or texting 302-324-2208. Follow him on Twitter at @CamGoodnight.
This article originally appeared on Delaware News Journal: Election Day 2023: What to watch for in PA, NJ and more
