WASHINGTON, June 3 (UPI) -- Anti-incumbent fervor this year has inspired more U.S. voters to seek political office, USA Today says.
In a story published Thursday, the newspaper said its analysis of the primary field in 33 states shows the number of candidates is up 35 percent from 2008. Many of those running are political newcomers.
The political season has already claimed some major victims. In Pennsylvania, U.S. Sen. Arlen Specter, a Republican who turned Democrat to avoid a stiff primary challenge, lost this month's Democratic primary to a two-term congressman running without backing from party leaders. Sen. Bob Bennett, R-Utah, lost in the Republican primary to a Tea Party candidate.
Rep. Howard Coble, R-N.C., had a contested primary for the first time in almost three decades. This year, he beat back five opponents.
"The anger is universal, border to border," he said.
David Rohde, a political science professor at Duke University, told USA Today the newcomers may face disappointment if they actually win. He said congressional rules favor senior members.
"They want huge changes, and this system is not designed to produce huge changes," he said.
