Politics in Pennsylvania is characterized by a mix of urban and rural influences, leading to a diverse political landscape. The state has historically been a battleground for both the Democratic and Republican parties, with major cities like Philadelphia and Pittsburgh leaning Democratic, while many rural areas tend to support Republicans. The state government consists of an elected governor, a bicameral legislature, and a judiciary. Pennsylvania holds significant importance in national elections, often playing a pivotal role in determining the outcome of presidential races due to its large number of electoral votes.