Election 'buzz' expected to lead to high turnout Tues.
Despite the absence of strictly local races on

next Tuesday's general election ballot, local political observers are expecting a good turnout.

Intense media scrutiny of many of the political advertisements endorsing candidates have created a buzz around Tuesday's general elections. In addition, polls suggest that Democrats may win back control of Congress, something Republicans are working hard to ensure won't happen.

One of the biggest battles for a U.S. Senate seat is taking place right here in Pennsylvania, where Republican Rick Santorum, has been fighting to close the gap against Democratic nominee Bob Casey Jr..

Things don't appear to be nearly as close in the election for the 10th District seat in the U.S. House of Representatives. Leaders from both parties forecast that incumbent John Peterson, a Republican, has a big edge over Democratic nominee Don Hilliard.

An accountant, Hilliard declined special interest donations and financed his own low-budget campaign with the simple slogan, "Had enough?"

A healthy battle for governor has also attracted local interest. Polls show the Republican candidate, who is likely to score well in Potter, Cameron and McKean counties, is trailing down the stretch.

Governor Ed Rendell, a Democrat, seeks a second four-year term. Republican nominee is Lynn Swann.

State Assemblyman Martin Causer (R, McKean Co.) is unopposed for another two-year term.

Tuesday's ballot also contains a referendum on benefits for

military veterans

who cserved during the 1990-91 Persian Gulf War.

Pennsylvania voters are being asked to decide whether the state should borrow up to $20 million to compensate about 33,000 veterans. They would receive bonuses of as much as $525 if the $20 million bond issue is approved.

The measure calls for payments of $75 for each month served. Survivors of the 27 Pennsylvanians who died in the war would be eligible for $5,000, as would prisoners of war.