Voters Decide Primary Races BUFFALO (wned) - The polls are open in Erie County and across New York on this primary day with several interesting races to be decided by voters.

Erie County Democratic Committee Chairman Leonard Lenihan says primaries typically attract 20-percent of the electorate. Lenihan says even though there's several highly contested races, turnout could be even lower today. He says lots of negative advertising can turn voters off.

"It's almost insulting to the voters of this community," Lenighan said.

Erie County Republican Chairman Jim Domogalski says he too is turned off by negative ads, but he says character issues can be important to voters.

"If your talking about somebody's record, whether it's their legislative record or official conduct in office...things like that are factual, relevent issues," Domogalski said.

Among the more competitive races, State Assemblyman Sam Hoyt is facing a strong challenge in the 144th District by former Buffalo Common Council member Barbara Kavanaugh.

Other highly contested Democratic races include the 3-way-battle between Jack Davis, Jon Powers and Alice Kryzan in the 26th Congressional District. The winner will face Republica Chris Lee in November.

The Democratic primary race for Erie County District Attorney features Frank Sedita III, Ken Case and Diane LaVallee.

Local Republican primaries being closely watched include the 4-way fight between Assemblyman Mike Cole, Jane Corwin, Leonard Roberto and Jeffrey Bono and the challenge between long-time incumbent State Senator Dale Volker and former East Aurora Mayor David DiPietro.

The polls are open until 9 tonight. © Copyright 2009, wned