Several Democratic candidates in the state primary might be counting on an angry and frustrated electorate to bring them victory.

Talking up their political campaigns at a Centre County Democratic Committee dinner at the Elks Country Club in Boalsburg, the candidates targeted the Republican contribution to the nation's ailing economy.

"Jobs need to be the number one concern among people in this election season," said state Rep. Ruth Rudy. "We need action that will get us out of this recession that Bush has caused."

Rudy, who is running against Republican Mark E. Milliron for the 171st district, said investing in people, health care and higher education would stimulate the economy.

State Rep. Camille "Bud" George said the nation must elect people who believe in honesty and issues.

"In this election, I'm reminded somewhat that words are an important part of this game we play in," George said.

Because this is a year of anger in politics, George said he has made honesty and the revitalization of the economy two priorities.

George is running against Republicans Peggy Dunlap Fravel and Jack H. Alexander for the 74th district.

Two candidates, each hoping to unseat state Rep. Lynn Herman for the 77th district, said their goal is not to win but to have a Democratic representative.

"We need a Democrat," said Bill Patton, one of the candidates. "There has been too much talk and too little action -- we need a leader who will fight for the people."

Mike Radis, who is vying for the 77th district Democratic nomination, said he would concentrate on higher education.

"I will be working to see that Penn State gets an equal share of state funding," Radis said, adding that the University is the largest state institution but gets the least money.

State Rep. Roy Afflerbach, D-Lehigh, who is running for state auditor general, said only an "activist approach" would end the recession.

Representatives spoke on behalf of Democratic candidates Catherine Baker Knoll, running for state treasurer, Lt. Gov. Mark Singel and Lynn Yeakel, both running for U.S. Senate, and California Gov. Jerry Brown and Arkansas Gov. Bill Clinton, both running for U.S. president.