A Dickinson College kickoff debate among GOP candidates for the Pa. governor’s office underscored the importance of Bucks County in the statewide races. Joseph Picozzi tallied all the local implications for Real Clear Politics.

Bucks County politics is a complex array of cross-county layers: rural north, professional midsection, and blue-collar south. But in general it was considered an amiably shade of “purple” (a blend of Republican red and Democrat blue).

That hue, however, is ebbing away on a macro level. Democrats’ statewide voter-registration advantage is at its lowest point since 2005.

And that shift has ramped up voter scrutiny of the GOP slate, particularly here.

Seasoned pols and casual watchers viewing the debate had varied reactions to the contenders, many of whom are political neophytes.

For example, Shawn Berger, a local restaurateur, projected a home-spun background that some found refreshing. At a nearby watch party, one viewer was interested enough to silence the chattering crowd with, “Shut up! He’s speaking.”

Another political operative was drawn to Dave White, a Delaware County businessman. “White, with his labor backing, could take the trade unions. Scott Martin is the frat guy you actually like,” he characterized.

U.S. Rep. Ryan Costello described the diverse array of hopefuls as a good thing. He referred to the newcomers joining the political process as advantageous representation of “normal people, folks that walk down the street, your neighbors.”

The one player from this field who connects with Bucks County voters will eventually challenge sole Democratic runner Josh Shapiro.

Further details on Bucks County’s role in choosing the GOP candidate in the Pa. governor race is at Real Clear Politics.