Pennsylvania's primary is normally in May, moving up to April in presidential election years. The April date has not resulted in a nationally significant contest since former Vice President Walter Mondale won the state against former Sen. Gary Hart in 1984.

Gov. Ed Rendell, an advocate of moving up the state's primary to have more impact, said earlier this month that it was not a priority this year. Many legislators have objected to the impact an earlier date would have in moving up their campaign schedules.

Mr. Rendell ruled out a separate presidential primary because of the cost to the state. Rep. Ron Buxton, D-Harrisburg, recently proposed to move the state's primary to the first week of March. The House has yet to take action on his proposal.