Welcome to the Morning Buzz, PRRI’s morning dose of religion-related news with a shot of data – because what doesn’t liven up a morning round-up like some public opinion numbers? However much Americans dislike Congress, at least we don’t have a cat serving in the House of Representatives. Yet.

Students are relying less heavily on their parents to pay for college, according to a new study from Sallie Mae. Instead, they’re increasing their own borrowing and out-of-pocket contributions. Approximately two-thirds (66%) of Americans say government should do more to help students pay for college and pay off student loan debt.

According to Gallup, fewer than half (46%) of Catholics have faith in organized religion, compared to 56% of Protestants.

Mormons are lashing out against a Bloomberg Businessweek cover, saying that the image is “bigoted” and “out of bounds.” Joanna Brooks writes that while the article is, for the most part, fair and balanced, the cover illustration is “juvenile.” Considering that only 17% of Americans say they know a lot about the religious beliefs and practices of Mormons, it’s understandable that Mormons would be upset by unflattering depictions of their faith in the media.

Paul Begala argues that – believe it or not – less than a million voters in Virginia, Florida, Ohio, Iowa, New Mexico, and Colorado will decide the election.

Uh-oh: according to Nate Silver, there could be another recount in Florida following this November’s vote.

Did Henry David Thoreau invent raisin bread? I guess we’ll never know…

Want to receive the Morning Buzz as a daily email? Sign up here. For updates and coverage throughout the day, follow us on Facebook or Twitter.