Here's a recap of the Trib's endorsements for Tuesday's Pennsylvania primary election:
FOR U.S. SENATE:
• Nominate Democrat Joe Sestak.
The retired Navy rear admiral has served his 7th Congressional District with distinction in Washington. And he better represents the interests of all Pennsylvania Democrats than has incumbent Sen. Arlen Specter, who flatly admits he returned to the Democrat fold last year for one reason -- to assure his election to a sixth term. Democrats deserve more than a personal opportunist for their nominee.
• Nominate Republican Pat Toomey.
The former Pennsylvania congressman was one of the most astute practitioners of sound economics during his House days. And his voice of economic reason continued as head of the Club for Growth. Republicans should find great comfort that they have such a dedicated conservative to make their nominee.
FOR GOVERNOR:
• Nominate Republican Tom Corbett .
He has a long and distinguished record of public service to the nation and the commonwealth. And the state attorney general's continuing investigation into alleged corruption in the state Legislature involving Democrats and Republicans is a testament to his prosecutory integrity. And integrity is what it's all about.
• Nominate Democrat Jack Wagner .
He, too, has a long and distinguished record of public service. And the state auditor general has been rewarded at the polls with some of the largest statewide vote totals in commonwealth history. He's a proven watchdog of public dollars, a consensus-builder and knows how to assemble a good team. His chief opponent, Dan Onorato, would be a dangerous choice.
FOR U.S. HOUSE:
• Elect Republican Tim Burns in the 12th Congressional District special election.
The death of longtime Congressman Jack Murtha left a large void in the 12th. But in the special election to elect someone to serve out the remaining seven months of Mr. Murtha's unexpired term, Mr. Burns, a Johnstown businessman, stands head and shoulders above challenger Mark Critz, the Democrat who served as Murtha's economic development director.
But there's also a primary election on Tuesday to nominate candidates who will vie for election to Murtha's seat for the new term beginning in January. Thus, Republicans must remember to vote twice for Tim Burns on Tuesday, for he deserves a full two-year term as well.
• 4th Congressional District: Nominate Keith Rothfus.
Incumbent Democrat Congressman Jason Altmire faces no primary opposition. Mr. Rothfus, an Edgeworth attorney, faces former U.S. Attorney Mary Beth Buchanan for the Republican nomination. Mrs. Buchanan's poor prosecutory judgment should not be rewarded with a promotion to the U.S. House. Rothfus, a better-rounded conservative, is the better choice for the GOP.
