In a significant shift in local governance, Democrats took control of the Luzerne County Council, securing a majority position after Tuesday’s election. Additionally, the county controller’s position has been filled by a Democrat, indicating a broader trend in voter sentiment.
Meanwhile, a proposed amendment to the county’s home rule charter was rejected by the voters, reflecting a desire to maintain the current governance structure.
“I think, it’s almost like a referendum, if you ask me, on what’s going on nationally,” remarked Denise Williams, a Democrat who emerged with the highest votes in the council race.
Williams further commented, “The common denominator that I heard door-knocking across the board was people were very unhappy with what’s happening nationally.”
Luzerne County Council Race
Heading into the election, the council consisted of seven Republicans and four Democrats. After the election, Democrats managed to capture four of the five open seats in the at-large race. The results, though unofficial, reported from all 186 precincts, show the following:
- Williams (D) — 38,280
- John Lombardo (R) — 37,374
- Steven Coslett (D) — 36,053
- Chris Belles (D) — 35,986
- Dawn Simmons (D) — 34,478
Unfortunately for the Republicans, incumbents Brian Thornton and Greg Wolovich were unable to secure a second term, receiving 33,136 and 31,872 votes, respectively. Other Republicans, Jackie Scarcella and Stephen J. Urban, also failed to win seats.
Denise Williams expressed her happiness with the outcome, while John Lombardo, though grateful for his reelection, voiced his disappointment over the overall results for his party. “Many of my colleagues… are no longer going to be a part of Luzerne County Council,” Lombardo stated, adding concerns about “outside money” influencing the race.
Charter Changes Rejected
The proposal for a new home rule charter was turned down by voters, with 41,114 voting against and 26,512 in favor. The proposed changes included reducing council members from 11 to nine, raising salaries, modifying term limits, expanding the county Board of Elections, and increasing the Accountability, Conduct and Ethics Commission by two members.
McGinley Elected Controller
Republican Walter L. Griffith Jr. was defeated in his run for another term as county controller, receiving 36,511 votes against Democrat Tim McGinley’s 39,015.
Bufalino Elected Judge
In the race for a new common pleas court judge, Democrat Mark Bufalino won with 40,549 votes, surpassing Republican Tom Mosca’s 35,556 votes.
Other Key Contests
In Pittston, a proposal to transition the city treasurer from an elected to an appointed position was narrowly rejected, with 709 votes against and 707 in favor. More details can be found here.
