Ms. Ford's opponent challenged the election outcome, saying there had been voting irregularities.

He added that, despite Democratic charges that there may have been voting irregularities, "I think tomorrow morning when she gets up, she should look in the mirror.

An ABC News release about its coverage promised a team of reporters, "led by Dan Harris, who will monitor states for voting discrepancies and irregularities."

In March 2005, Hitchens supported further investigation into voting irregularities in Ohio during the 2004 presidential election.

Democrats say the counties were selected because there were complaints about voting irregularities and anomalies.

Even Wednesday morning might not bring certainty because of the close races, possible recounts, runoffs and new vigilance toward voting irregularities after the wild 2000 contest.

The statement, issued Friday night by Mr. Feeney and Senate President John McKay, said the committee was charged with looking at "voting irregularities."

Mr. Flood, who is expected to remain acting mayor until the court battle is resolved, contends that there have been voting irregularities and is seeking a new vote.

Narcotics dealing was a relatively new development in Mingo County, but not voting irregularities.

Analysts expressed regret at voting "irregularities" and at Tudjman's autocratic nationalism, but consoled themselves with reports that he is dying of cancer.