Scranton, a city in Pennsylvania known as the Electric City and President Joe Biden’s hometown, is expected to play a significant role in the upcoming 2024 election. Situated in Northeastern Pennsylvania, a crucial swing region in a key swing state, Scranton has already attracted attention from both major party candidates. However, the city is facing a pressing issue of rising violent crime.
In the first five months of 2024, Scranton has seen a spike in homicides, with five recorded so far, surpassing the total number of homicides in previous years. This surge in violent incidents has left residents shocked and concerned. Tragic events such as armed robberies, drug-related crimes, gang violence, and even a shooting at a lacrosse game have rattled the community. The rise in car thefts and a shooting involving a police detective further highlight the escalating crime wave in Scranton.
In response to the growing crime rates, county commissioners have approved the use of a section of the county jail to accommodate juvenile offenders due to overcrowding in juvenile detention facilities. The increase in criminal activities has been a wakeup call for many long-time residents who never experienced such levels of violence in the past.
The crime wave in Scranton raises questions about its potential impact on the upcoming elections. National polls indicate that voters often trust Republicans more on crime-related issues. Despite being a traditionally Democratic area, many Scranton Democrats have taken a tough stance on crime and law enforcement, which may influence voter decisions in the upcoming races.
Key political figures from Scranton, such as Democratic Senator Bob Casey and Representative Matt Cartwright, are facing tough reelection battles against Republican challengers. The outcome of these races could be crucial in determining the balance of power in Congress. The competitive nature of these races, combined with the concerns over rising crime rates, adds another layer of complexity to the political landscape in the region.
While some local newspapers dismiss public concerns about crime, claiming that overall crime rates have decreased, the reality on the ground tells a different story. As the November elections approach, the issue of crime in Scranton may prove to be a decisive factor in shaping the political future of the city and its surrounding areas. The verdict on how the community perceives and responds to the crime wave could have far-reaching implications beyond just Scranton, impacting the broader state of Pennsylvania.