Unexpected Shift in Lackawanna County Board of Commissioners Leadership
In a move that left many stunned, the Lackawanna County Board of Commissioners witnessed an unexpected twist in its leadership selection process. During a routine reorganization meeting, Democratic Commissioner Thom Welby chose to support Republican Chris Chermak as vice chairman, rather than his fellow Democrat, Bill Gaughan, who had nominated him for chairman.
The decision by Welby to nominate Chermak, forcing Chermak to second his own nomination, sparked tension and accusations of betrayal from Gaughan. Gaughan expressed his discontent, asserting that Welby’s actions disregarded the voters’ 2023 mandate for a Democratic majority.
“Just like the last reorganization, I want to congratulate the new Republican majority of Lackawanna County,” Gaughan remarked with evident dissatisfaction.
The backdrop for this drama involves Welby’s recent victory in a special election, which concluded a period of uncertainty following former Commissioner Matt McGloin’s departure. Voters had selected Welby to succeed interim commissioner Brenda Sacco, who had briefly held the position before Welby assumed office.
Gaughan reminded Welby of the Democratic majority established with his and McGloin’s 2023 election, emphasizing that it was meant to be a governing majority with the responsibility of reflecting the values that secured their election.
“It wasn’t a symbolic majority,” Gaughan stated. “It wasn’t a temporary one. It was a governing majority entrusted with setting direction, establishing leadership and reflecting the values that earned their trust. And that mandate is unfortunately being ignored once again.”
He accused Welby of creating “distortion” by elevating Chermak, a known MAGA Republican, over his Democratic colleague. Gaughan criticized Chermak’s political stance, stating it was deeply rooted in a movement that undermines democratic norms.
Gaughan argued that Chermak’s previous actions, including his vote against certifying the 2020 presidential election and abstaining from approving a special election for commissioner, were evidence of his unsuitability for leadership.
Chermak and Welby Defend Their Positions
Responding to the criticism, Chermak highlighted his six-year tenure and commitment to serving all county residents, regardless of political affiliation. “This county is a mix of Republicans, Democrats, independents and people that don’t even bother to vote,” Chermak explained. “So, since I came here six years ago, my main concern was to do what was right for the county, for everybody that is part of this county.”
Welby also responded, pointing out Gaughan’s past support for an independent candidate over the Democratic nominee during the special election. He reiterated his campaign promise to act independently and focus on what is best for the county, stating, “We’re not working for Republicans, we’re not working for Democrats. We’re working as a democracy, working together.”
Gaughan, however, was not convinced by their explanations, expressing his frustration bluntly: “They’re both full of (expletive),” he said.
