All eyes turn to Pennsylvania -- and Delco

Brace yourself.

Pennsylvania is about to become the center of the political universe. At least for Democrats.

And that includes Delaware County.

This all comes courtesy of the latest chapter in the “Comeback Clinton” saga.

Battered by upstart Illinois Sen. Barack Obama in 11 straight primaries, Sen. Hillary Clinton had her back to the wall in yesterday’s crucial primaries in Texas and Ohio.

She’s still standing.

Clinton took big wins in both states, and tossed in a victory in Rhode Island just for good measure. Obama posted a solo win in Vermont.

There is a contest next week in Mississippi, but the truth is Pennsylvania is about to be invaded – by both the Clinton and Obama camps.

The Pennsylvania Primary, not that long ago ridiculed as being too late and not offering voters here a meaningful voice in the election, now could very well crown the Democratic nominee.

That means for the next seven weeks all eyes will be on Pennsylvania.

And to think that at one time there was actually a push to move the state primary up. Maybe joining the crowd on Super Tuesday.

Now we will have the stage to ourselves.

Here in Delaware County, the party has splintered, with distinct factions lining up with Obama, while others have thrown their support for Clinton.

U.S. Rep. Joe Sestak, D-7, of Edgmont, one of the prized super-delegates, has been solidly behind Hillary. After all, he did serve in her husband’s administration. He’s joined by the party vice chairman Mary Ellen Balchunis.

But it’s not a united stance. County party boss Cliff Wilson is leading the cheers for Obama. Joining him is first vice chair Tony Campisi, leader of Marple Democrats, as well as state Reps. Bryan Lentz, D-161, of Swarthmore, and Thaddeus Kirkland, D-159, of Chester.

It will be interesting to see how widespread the dueling Democratic lawn signs become here in still solidly Republican Delco.

The GOP? They’ll be on the sidelines, content now that John McCain has wrapped up the nomination and Mike Huckabee indicated he will get out.

They will watch as the Democrats go toe to toe in a battle royal.

May the best man – or woman – win.

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