You'd think that the 2010 elections are so far off but in Pennsylvania, the Democratic Primary is only 8 months away. And with that, the Democratic Party of PA will be hosting a Straw Poll on August 28 during their All-American Picnic in Harrisburg.
So far the field to replace Gov. Ed Rendell is shaping up to be Philadelphia businessman Tom Knox, state Auditor General Jack Wagner, Allegheny County Executive Dan Onorato, Scranton Mayor Chris Doherty and even some rumblings from Montgomery County Commissioner Joe Hoeffel.
The Straw Poll will be open to anyone who wants to attend the picnic. This could be a significant sign as to which of these potential candidates, or even an insurgent unknown, has the strongest organization built for winning what is sure to be one of the most closely followed races in the nation next year.
I think it will be interesting to see how each of these candidates develops a strategy for coming out on top of this straw poll. If you have ideas for your favorite candidate I encourage you to contact them and get involved.
Not only will this be a clear example of the strength of the individual campaigns but it should lend itself nicely as a party building event. And again, anyone can attend. You don't have to be a member of the State Committee. You don't even have to be a registered Democrat. You just need to show up.