by Peter Wray, Political Chair

With the presidential races possibly settled before Pennsylvania
Primaries, April 22, several local races are likely to attract the
interest of the environmental community. In the 18th Congressional
District five Democrats are vying for a chance to face incumbent Tim
Murphy in November; Wayne Dunning (Robinson), Beth Hafer (Mt. Lebanon),
Steve O’Donnell (Monroeville), Erin Vecchio (Penn Hills and Brien Wall
(Upper St. Clair).

In the 5th Congressional District the retirement of John Peterson is
likely to cause a keen race in the Republican Primary. Although
stretching to State College and beyond, this District covers much of
Allegheny NF, and the local Congressman has a large say on what areas of
the forest may be included in the national Wilderness System.

Closer to home, State Senator Gerald LaValle (D, Beaver County) is
retiring, as are State Representatives Bob Bastian (R, Bedford/ Somerset),
Rep. Fred McIlhatten (R, Clarion/ Armstrong) Tom Tangretti (D,
Westmoreland), Jess Stairs (R, Fayette/ Westmoreland) Ed Wojnarski (D,
Cambria) and Tom Yewcic (D, Cambria).

Of special interest to Pittsburghers will be the Democratic Primary races
to replace retiring Representatives Lisa Bennington (D, Bloomfield) and
Tom Petrone (D, West End).