Scranton, PA — In a political season bustling with key judicial and administrative races, Scranton Mayor Paige Gebhardt Cognetti has announced her intention to run for re-election. This year, the mayoral office is just one of several significant posts voters will decide on, including a contested race for a Lackawanna County judgeship recently vacated by former District Attorney Mark Powell, who ascended to the bench.
Powell’s transition to the judiciary follows the state Senate’s approval of his appointment to the Lackawanna County Court of Common Pleas, filling a role left vacant when Judge Julia Munley moved to the federal bench. After his resignation as district attorney, Powell was sworn in, leaving his previous position to his First Assistant, Brian Gallagher, who also assumed his new role per state laws governing such successions.
As the forthcoming elections approach, both Powell and Gallagher are gearing up to secure their spots for longer terms — Powell aiming for a full 10-year judicial term and Gallagher for a four-year term as district attorney. Their campaigns will be closely watched, as they bring significant prior experience to their respective offices.
Mayor Cognetti, who became Scranton’s first female mayor following a special election in 2019 prompted by the resignation of the former mayor amid corruption charges, confirmed her candidacy for another term. Her administration has highlighted several ongoing initiatives, including combating utility rate hikes, boosting the redevelopment of neighborhoods, and improving local infrastructure. Cognetti also continues to champion the restoration of passenger rail service between Scranton and New York City, a long-awaited project that could greatly benefit the region.
In her re-election bid, Cognetti remains focused on propelling Scranton forward, emphasizing the need to listen to residents’ aspirations and requirements for the city’s future development.
Additionally, the city council will see potential changes with three seats up for grabs this election cycle. Veterans Gerald Smurl and Tom Schuster have announced plans to run again, whereas Bill King will step down, creating an opening for new leadership within the city’s legislative body.
Meanwhile, on the county level, voters will also decide on several “row offices” including sheriff, register of wills, and recorder of deeds. The incumbents, Sheriff Mark McAndrew, Register of Wills Fran Kovaleski, and Recorder of Deeds Evie Rafalko McNulty, all seasoned Democratic officeholders, are each seeking re-election.
As election day draws near, the political landscape is poised for shifts, with nominations opening on February 18. The impending municipal primary is scheduled for May 20, setting the stage for the general elections on November 4.
As this dynamic political season unfolds, outcomes remain uncertain, with challenges and campaigns that are sure to shape the future of Lackawanna County and Scranton for years to come.
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