Voters in Lackawanna County, Pennsylvania, express their concerns and preferences ahead of the upcoming election, revealing a close battle between candidates amid a "purple" political landscape.
Lackawanna County, Pennsylvania, once a Democratic stronghold, has emerged as a key battleground county in this election cycle, with voters expressing a mix of concerns and loyalties that could swing the county's vote come November.
Nestled in northeastern Pennsylvania, Lackawanna County encompasses a blend of urban landscapes, dotted with suburbs, expansive farms, and relics of its industrial past. Despite historically voting blue in state and national elections, the county has witnessed a shift towards the right in recent years.
Pennsylvania's 'Purple' County Heats Up as Lackawanna Battles for Votes
The economy has become a major topic of discussion among Lackawanna County voters. Some, like Trump supporter John Soentgerath, cite rising prices, particularly in gas and groceries, as their primary concerns. Others, such as Democratic supporter Adrianna, express worry over inflation and the struggles of finding affordable childcare.
Abortion remains a polarizing issue in the county. Adrianna, a mother of a young boy, believes that women should have the right to make decisions about their own bodies and emphasizes the importance of reproductive freedom. On the other side, Trump supporter Larry West expresses concern over Kamala Harris' stance on foreign affairs, stating that she appears "weak" on the global stage.
Pennsylvania's 'Purple' County Heats Up as Lackawanna Battles for Votes
National security and immigration also feature prominently in voters' minds. West emphasizes the importance of a strong national security platform to combat threats from Russia and China. Others, such as Andrew Cutillo, a Harris campaign volunteer, stress the need for a president who "understands what it's like to grow up or live in Northeast Pennsylvania" and focuses on supporting families.
Independent voters like David Kveragas, who voted for Trump in 2020, cite his approval of Trump's record in office, particularly his handling of the economy and immigration. He notes that he "lost 40%" of his retirement savings under Biden and expresses concerns over fentanyl's prevalence.
Pennsylvania's 'Purple' County Heats Up as Lackawanna Battles for Votes
The upcoming election has sparked a flurry of campaign activity in Lackawanna County. Both Trump's and Harris' campaigns have dedicated significant attention to the area, with candidates and their supporters engaging in door-knocking, voter registration drives, and rallies.
Voters in Lackawanna County acknowledge the high-stakes nature of this election and the potential for the county to sway the outcome of the race in Pennsylvania. They emphasize the need for candidates to address their concerns and demonstrate a commitment to governing for all Americans, regardless of political affiliation.
Pennsylvania's 'Purple' County Heats Up as Lackawanna Battles for Votes
As the election draws near, Lackawanna County remains a prime example of Pennsylvania's "purple" political landscape, with a mix of voters whose concerns and loyalties will likely determine the fate of the state's electoral votes.
