As the presidential primaries come close to Pennsylvania, local Democratic leaders say Arkansas Gov. Bill Clinton's charismatic personality could lead him to the party's nomination.

Although neither the College Democrats nor the Centre County Democrats will endorse a candidate, leaders of both groups said Clinton has the most potential among the candidates.

Todd Lippincott, president of the College Democrats, said all the Democratic nominees have positive points, but if a Democratic candidate were to win the election over President Bush, it would be Clinton.

"Mr. Clinton has charisma, he is not too liberal, he has big support in the South, and he has a good plan called the New Covenant," Lippincott said.

Lynn DuBois, chairwoman of the Centre County Democrats, agreed that Clinton has the power to beat Bush.

"Clinton has charisma, shows leadership and trust, and has confidence that will win the support of the voters," DuBois said.

Except for Clinton and former Massachusetts Sen. Paul Tsongas, the Democratic candidates do not have the potential or the financial backing to win the primaries, DuBois added.

Lippincott and DuBois agreed that whoever wins the Democratic nod will beat Bush in November.

The College Democrats have started preparing for the upcoming primaries.

The group is starting voter registration and door-to-door canvassing in the area, Lippincott said. They also have been sending students to different states to campaign for different Democratic candidates.

The College Democrats have also invited all the candidates to speak at the University, but have not yet received a reply from the candidates.

"The Centre County Democrats don't take action in the primaries," DuBois said. "Most of our involvement comes after the primaries."