Violence continued to escalate in Iraq as the election draws closer. Insurgents mounted attacks throughout the Sunni triangle today, killing at least one U.S. Marine and 15 Iraqis.

Much of the violence was centered on buildings designated as polling places in Sunday's election. At least six polling stations were bombed including a school administration building located in Samarra. One soldier and two bystanders were killed in the explosion.

A car bomb also exploded near a U.S. military base in Ramadi. As of yet, there is no official word on casualties.

The insurgents goal of disrupting and delegitimizing the elections is clear. Today, on an Islamist web site often used by the insurgents, the jihadist Army of Ansar al-Sunna issued what it described as a 'final warning' to Iraqis to stay away from the polls on Sunday.

'Those who don't pay heed will have only themselves to blame,' the statement said. Threats were made against those who vote both during the election and afterwards.

President Bush yesterday urged Iraqis to 'defy the terrorists' and vote. It remains to be seen what Sunday's official turnout and actual turnout will be.