State Democratic Party Intervenes in Lackawanna County Reorganization
In a decisive move, the Pennsylvania Democratic Party has temporarily taken control of its Lackawanna County affiliate following a lapse in local leadership. This intervention aims to address grievances from local Democrats and ensure a fair election of new county party officers.
During a Zoom meeting, the state party unanimously concluded that Chris Patrick’s tenure as county Democratic chairman had expired. This decision came after numerous complaints were raised about Patrick’s leadership. “We had written complaints and phone calls,” stated a state party official on the condition of anonymity.
The state party’s ruling allows 76 newly elected local committee members to assume their roles and vote for new officers. A spokesperson for the state Democratic Party explained, “In response to the county party’s failure to complete its reorganization, the state party is stepping in to facilitate the reorganization process, in which all duly elected members will have the ability to participate.”
Chris Patrick expressed disappointment with the state’s intervention, noting that he had consulted state chairman Eugene DePasquale before deeming the 76 members ineligible. Patrick remarked, “While I respect the decision of the state committee and will accept it, I fundamentally disagree with it.”
Contentious Vote Blocked
Patrick’s scheduled reorganization vote for July 7 faced a setback when a county court judge intervened, blocking the vote until further judicial review. This legal action coincided with the state party’s determination that Patrick’s term had ended on June 24, as stipulated by the county party’s bylaws.
Patrick had declared the 76 committee members ineligible, citing violations of bylaws for supporting non-Democrats in previous elections. However, this decision was met with significant backlash. Scranton city councilman Patrick Flynn criticized Patrick’s actions, stating, “It’s just beyond my comprehension that this is the way to leave the party behind.”
Legal Proceedings and Appeals
Thirteen committee members, represented by attorney P. Timothy Kelly, sought judicial intervention, leading to the postponement of the July vote. Meanwhile, Patrick had scheduled appeal hearings for 42 of the ineligible members, including Lexie Kelly, a leader of the faction Lackawanna United Democrats. Kelly praised the state party’s intervention, describing it as “a turning point” for county Democrats.
Previous Tensions and Achievements
The state party’s involvement may prevent a prolonged legal battle similar to past disputes, such as the contentious process of filling a commissioner vacancy last year. As Patrick steps down, he defends his 12-year tenure, highlighting achievements like reclaiming the district attorney’s office for the Democrats. “Democratic registration has dropped everywhere,” Patrick said, emphasizing the party’s continued success in elections despite challenges.
