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Pollwatchers, Official and Unofficial, Prepare For Pennsylvania Primary In Philadelphia

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) - Low turnout is expected in tomorrow's primary election in Philadelphia, but both official and unofficial watchdogs will be out to make sure things go smoothly.

Despite the mayor's race and many vacated or contested City Council seats, the election group "Committee of 70" expects a turnout of only 13 to 14 percent.

But with a low vote comes high leverage for those who do show up, so the Committee plans to have 300 to 400 volunteer pollwatchers all over town.

DA Seth Williams will also muster the troops.

"This district attorney's office will be using many of our own resources: approximately 70 assistant district attorneys and county detectives will be out in mobile units, responding to any problem," he told reporters today.

Williams say two common problems are voters showing up without proper ID or going to the wrong polling place after a move.
Here are some numbers to call if you have a problem or question on Election Day within the City of Philadelphia:

Acting City Commissioners:  215-686-3462
Committee of Seventy: 866-687-8683
Voter Registration/Eligibility: 215-686-1590
Voting Machine Malfunction: 215-686-7000
Election Board: 215-686-3469
District Attorney's Complaint Line: 215-686-9641, -9643, -9644, -9884            
Main City Hall Number: 215-686-1776    

Reported by  John Ostapkovich, KYW Newsradio 1060

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