Paige Cognetti's Double Duty: A Closer Look at Her Political Moves
Mayor's Decision to Run for Congress While in Office Raises Questions
Paige Cognetti, the mayor of Scranton, has ignited a firestorm of debate with her decision to run for Congress while still in office. Critics argue that her move calls into question her commitment to her current role, suggesting she may be prioritizing her political ambitions over the needs of her community.
Narrow Election Victory Fuels Speculation
Cognetti's recent mayoral election victory was narrower than in previous elections, leading some to believe her support is on the decline. Independent candidate Gene Barrett and former Democratic rival Bob Sheridan have both criticized her decision, stating that it's unfair to the voters who elected her to serve as mayor.
Personnel Decisions Under Scrutiny
The mayor's personnel choices have come under intense scrutiny. She appointed Michael Villa to the city's Human Relations Commission despite his ongoing DUI case. Villa's subsequent arrests, including a recent incident that led to a school lockdown, have raised serious concerns. Critics argue that Cognetti should have removed him sooner, calling her delay a significant oversight.
Healthcare Expansion Blocked
Another contentious issue is Cognetti's role in blocking the expansion of Scranton's Geisinger Community Medical Center. Initially, she supported the project to alleviate overcrowding in the emergency room. However, she later signed a zoning ordinance that limited the height of new hospital structures, effectively canceling the expansion. This decision has strained the local healthcare system.
Personal and Political Missteps
Cognetti's recent personal and political missteps have also drawn attention. A video of her using her phone during a Veterans Day ceremony went viral, drawing comparisons to President Biden's controversial behavior at a military funeral. A resurfaced photo of her in University of Oregon attire has been used to portray her as out of touch with Pennsylvania values. Reports of her breaking a no-tax-hike pledge and her ties to out-of-state progressive operatives have further fueled the criticism.
