Democrats have held on to a one-seat majority in the Pennsylvania House but that majority is in play depending on the outcome of a special election in Delaware County, writes the Associated Press, as reported by KYW Newsradio.

The special election in the 163rd District to fill the seat vacated by Democrat Mike Zabel could also impact a proposed constitutional amendment on abortion rights that Republican legislators want to place in front of voters in a referendum.

Zabel resigned in March after a lobbyist accused him of sexual harassment.

The 163rd District covers Aldan, Clifton Heights, Collingdale, and parts of Upper Darby.

Running to fill his seat is Republican Katie Ford and Democrat Heather Boyd.

A win by Ford would give the House GOP a 102-101 majority, with the power to control the legislative agenda and the House voting calendar.

In a recent debate between both candidates, Ford voiced opposition to having voters decide on a GOP proposal that the Pennsylvania Constitution does not guarantee any rights relating to abortion.

She has stated that she would not change existing state abortion laws.

Boyd’s campaign is working to tie Ford to a longtime Republican effort to ban or restrict abortion across Pennsylvania.  

Read more about this critical special election KYW Newsradio.

Pennsylvania House members form new Black-Jewish caucus.