(WBRE/WYOU) — We are just hours away from voters casting ballots in the Commonwealth's primary, and while this vote doesn't have the big headlines of swing state presidential elections, it's still an important one.
Analyst Doctor David Sosar believes this election is the perfect opportunity for people to decide the fate of their communities. He feels a Lackawanna County mayoral race at the center of Tuesday's primary is a good example of why.
The Electric City is getting much of the spotlight in Tuesday's primary. Former Scranton Police Officer Bob Sheridan is challenging incumbent Mayor Paige Cognetti.
For the Republican ticket, it's Patricia Beynon and business owner Lynn Labrosky.
"It doesn't have the rock stars or the famous names of people you are going to be voting for in other states," Dr. Sosar said.
But Dr. Sosar says this election does have clout because those elected in November will have a direct impact on NEPA communities, from how much we pay in taxes to the strength of our police department.
Congetti seeks a second full term, promising increased transparency, public safety, and economic progress.
Officials remind PA primary voters where to find election information
Sheridan is in search of blight removal, public safety, and a budget for Scranton, which he believes could be better managed.
Accounting executive Patricia Beynon is pushing for lower tax rates, while Labrosky is focused on high crime and homelessness.
"Scranton has a lot of issues," Dr. Sosar added.
Dr. Sosar says it's a chance for Scranton voters to have a say on everything from tax rates to crime rates.
"This is an election that really matters because these are the people that are closest to you that do the work. They plow your streets, they collect your garbage, they are in charge of police forces that protect you," Dr. Sosar stated.
The primary, he believes, is more about voting for the person, not so much the party.
"It's up to the local communities to do that, and that's why local elections make sure a difference," Dr. Sosar said.
The winners of that primary and any third-party candidates will face each other in the November General Election.
