THE primary election in Pennsylvania…

isn’t being fought out by nationally recognizable candidates.

It’s going on in “small town” (wink) Central Pennsylvania, where the Republican primary for the 5th congressional district boasts nine (9) candidates (there are an additional 3 vying for the nomination on the Democrat side). The field includes a mayor, former and active county officials, businessmen and a coroner/funeral director.

Putting the national campaign finances into a little perspective, the Federal Election Commission reports that, real estate developer, Matt Shaner leads (by far) in contributions with $1.25 million, having loaned some $1.2 million to the campaign from his own funds. Shaner has spent $900,000 as of April 2nd, mostly on TV ads. Glenn Thompson, Centre County GOP leader, who recently received incumbent, John Peterson’s endorsement, has raised $9,500 (including a $1,000 loan), spent $9,200 and has about $300 in the bank. Financial planner, Derek Walker has raised the most in individual contributions, $135,000 (and loaned himself an additional $265,000).