• Next up? Republicans in the 30th Senate District are jockeying to see who will replace the late Sen. Don East, who passed away recently but still appears on the ballot.
• Brass in pocket. Two state House races in Mecklenburg County have attracted loads out of campaign funding from outside groups.
• Last-minute stumping. Vice President Joe Biden’s wife Jill will make another visit to North Carolina Friday.
• Late deciders. State Appeals Court Judge Jimmy Ervin has a 39-35 lead over incumbent Justice Paul Newby in a new Public Policy Polling survey. More than a fourth of voters remain undecided.