Luzerne County 2019 Election Guide

 

On November 5th in Luzerne County, six seats on Luzerne County council are on the ballot in addition to the Superior Court judges to be elected statewide.

Winning the countywide seats could transform the county for years to come! The leaders we elect will play key roles in determining environmental policy and the direction of economic growth in Luzerne County.

Every election matters, and we’re urging the Democrats of Luzerne not only to vote, but to support our Democratic candidates every day until Election Day. Here’s who you’ll see on the ballot this November and how to help them win.


Who’s on the Ballot

Pennsylvania Superior Court

Thousands rely on Pennsylvania courts for a fair shot in the era of mass incarceration, anti-union litigation, and GOP gerrymandering. We must ensure the Superior Court—our state’s second highest circuit—consists of judges who work for the people!

Amanda Green-Hawkins

Amanda Green-Hawkins grew up in a working-class union family. When she began her law career, she had the option to take a job at a high-powered law firm, but she chose to fight for workers instead.

For nearly twenty years, Amanda has defended workers’ rights in court as counsel for United Steelworkers. Now, she wants to fight for women and workers from the other side of the bench.

Dan McCaffery

Judge Dan McCaffery grew up in working-class Philadelphia and has spent all his adult life serving the people.

Currently, Judge McCaffery serves on the Philadelphia Court of Common Pleas in one of the country’s busiest trial divisions. His record is one of sterling integrity and fairness, and he’s the only candidate, in any party, Highly Recommended by the PA Bar Association.

 

For Retention: Judge Anne Lazarus

A third Superior Court candidate, Judge Anne Lazarus, is eligible for retention on the circuit this November. Democrats should vote “Yes” on Judge Lazarus’ retention vote.

 

County Council

The Luzerne County Council consists of eleven officials, each elected to four year terms, and six Democrats are on the ballot in 2019.

Wins for all of our slate will give Democrats serious influence over Luzerne County’s economic development, infrastructure investments, and environmental policies.

Timothy McGinley

Timothy is the current chair of Luzerne County Council, having been appointed to the position in 2018.

He’s running for re-election to continue his lifelong fight for integrity and transparency within local government. 

Joe Sebastianelli

Born and raised in the county, Joe is running for county council to eliminate wasteful spending and strengthen the economy by supporting small businesses and voting against tax breaks for major corporations.

Fixing and expanding roads, bridges and airports and eliminating blight would also be part of his plan to help the local economy.

Jane Walsh-Waitkus

Jane is seeking re-election to County Council in order to continue advocating for infrastructure improvements, protect the environment, and pay down county debt.

Patrick Bilbow

As Principal of Pittston Area Middle School, Patrick is ready to help make big decisions that improve the lives of county residents, especially public school families!

He’s confident in his ability to work with other council members and represent the Greater Pittston area with clarity, integrity, and fresh ideas. 

Robert Schnee

Robert sees the need for councilmembers who work just as hard as the people of Luzerne County do.

He’s seeking re-election to continue voicing the desires of county residents as he always has. 

Anup Patel

Anup is an industrial engineer and business owner who wants to reinvigorate Luzerne County’s infrastructure.

He’s running to bring more diversity to county government, and he believes his impressive career background perfectly aligns with the needs of his county!


Making a Plan to Vote

Election Day 2019 is Tuesday, November 5th, and polls will be open from 7:00 AM to 8:00 PM. Make note of these key deadlines so your voice can be heard.

Voter Registration
October 7, 2019
REGISTER TO VOTE

Absentee Ballot Request
October 29, 2019
REQUEST BALLOT

Absentee Ballot Submittal
November 1, 2019 | 5:00 PM
WHERE TO SUBMIT

 

For any other voting questions or support, please visit the PA Dems Voting Center!


How to Help Dems Win

The PA Democratic Party and the Luzerne County Democratic Committee are organizing voters across the region in support of Luzerne Democratic candidates. Your support is invaluable to that mission.

Volunteers are needed to knock doors, make phone calls, and help register voters! We also welcome donations to power our volunteer-led field campaign.

VOLUNTEER  CONTRIBUTE