The real race for Scranton City Council, “Democrats”

The most fascinating race in NEPA this primary season, has easily been Scranton City council. With three seats open—one incumbent retiring—one withdrew for petition problems. It’s clear a minimum of two newcomers will get nominated. 

However there has been an endless supply of drama in this race as well. Most notably with one candidate being heavily funded by a Republican relator—and former city council member—that I share a last name with. (We are not directly related). Another candidate who has a dodgy (to put it politely) past with sexual misconduct allegations in Luzerne County (that were later dropped by the accuser). Who also has made homophobia and transphobia the centerpiece agenda of his campaign.  

I suspect neither of those two will win. Although one might get a great deal of West Side support. I suspect Tom Schuster, will get a nomination to defend his incumbency in the fall. Between name recognition, and being a known critic of the mayor (Which will get the very small Sheridan fringe to support him), It’s possible he will be the highest vote earner. 

Let’s look at the other contenders for the final two spots. Just know I will NOT even acknowledge one candidate by name moving forward. (I think we all know why). 

Todd Pousley—who works as the director of Community Development at NeighborWorks Northeast PA. He is the ONLY current candidate endorsed by retiring council member, William King. Sitting council member, Dr. Jessica Rothchild. Current mayor, Paige Cognetti. And former US Senator—and Scranton’s favorite Irish son—Bob Casey Jr. 

His support is second to none. His campaign is the MOST visible yard sign wise. And honestly, he is a phenomenal candidate. Who proved his strength when a sleaze bag attempt—used a Luzerne County attorney, with some obvious connections to another candidate—to imply a conflict of interest would prevent him from sitting on council. I can testify as an elected official myself. Every board and council will have votes where members must abstain. It’s as common as a cold, blue skies, and the constant misuse of the word “anymore” in NEPA. That letter was at best, a dishonest attempt to change the narrative by a highly insecure opponent. 

Next comes a candidate who I truly think would be a GREAT addition to council. 

Frankie Malacaria—He might be unconventional, and very much leans hard to the left. However, in light of issues he talks about things like the cost of housing. Which people like, Pat Rogan—who are trying to drive up higher—because Rogan makes money in real estate sales. As well as being involved in numerous rental investments and flipping properties. Rogan didn’t spend $4,000 just out of the goodness of his heart, to a childhood friend. He wants to make an insane amount of money driving up the market and pricing out the working class, blue collar population of Scranton. 

This is a major issue that Frankie has been addressing. Seeking to expand affordable housing in the city. That would work from taking over abandoned and neglected houses. To turn into housing that lower income residents could afford. As well as working to bring better paying jobs that don’t sacrifice the quality of life in the city. Supporting the city’s union employees. Protecting seniors ability to remain in their homes. And making sure Scranton remains a LGBTQ+ friendly city. 

Patrick Flynn—the first candidate who addressed a homeless crisis for this city when he announced his entry into the race. The cousin of, State Senator Marty Flynn. Patrick, has long been seen in the background for many races in Lackawanna County during recent years. Including his cousin’s race for State Senate (among other Democratic races). Patrick has been working to move from the shadow of his cousin to be seen as a candidate of his own person. Certainly on social media, Patrick has been lumped in with his cousin’s recent controversies (County Commissioner’s vacancy, SB9, etc). Which might be unfair, as Patrick is a separate person from his cousin. Lord knows I am VERY different politically than most of my cousins—just saying. 

Flynn has more endorsements from Democrats elected to county offices, than city offices. However Patrick does have the intelligence, experience, and ability to make a good city council member. 

Sean McAndrew—the current Scranton School board member, and nephew of current city council member, Mark McAndrew. Speaking of candidates with elected family members. 

Sean is also the candidate who received $4,000 from, Pat Rogan. Again, I swear we are NOT related (I hope we are not,

Sean was a VIP guest with that other Rogan, to a Trump rally. Nothing screams NOT a Scranton Democrat more, than being a VIP to see the DICK-tator-tot in chief. This has generated a great deal of attention recently from, Chris Kelly—Times-Tribune opinion columnist (HE WRITES HIS OPINON REPUBLICANS!!!! GOOGLE THE WORD OPINION!!!). As well as being chummy with the current Republican county commissioner, and election drop box surveillance camera peeping tom—Chris Chermak. 

I would be SHOCKED, if Sean could crack the top three with that sort of red baggage. 

Now I have my picks for where I think they will finish. As well as the three candidates I would vote for if I were a city resident. 

My personal favorites:

Frankie Malacaria

Todd Pousley

Patrick Flynn`

Finish Prognostication:

1. Todd Pousley
2. Tom Schuster
3. Patrick Flynn