Scranton, Pennsylvania, the birthplace of President Joe Biden, is no longer just a nostalgic backdrop for his political narrative. It’s emerged as a critical battleground in the 2024 presidential election, a microcosm of the national political landscape where voters grapple with concerns about the economy, inflation, abortion, and national security.
While Lackawanna County, where Scranton sits, has historically leaned Democratic in state and federal elections, voters on the streets of the old coal mining region express a nuanced reality. They describe the area as “purple,” indicating a growing divide and a contest that promises to be close. The sense of apprehension is palpable, with residents feeling hesitant to openly express their political views for fear of potential backlash, a sentiment deeply rooted in the region’s history.
The county’s recent economic turnaround, a contrast to its industrial past, has not quelled concerns about the state of the nation. While Scranton’s economic fortunes may be on the rise, residents are grappling with the national economic anxieties that have become a defining feature of the 2024 campaign. The rising cost of living, particularly inflation, is a primary concern for voters, with many reminiscing about the days when a $20 bill could fill up a gas tank.
The issue of abortion has become a focal point of the campaign, particularly for women voters. The recent overturning of Roe v. Wade has ignited a national debate, and in Scranton, it is no different. Women like Adrianna, a local mother who supports Vice President Kamala Harris, express a deep sense of urgency around ensuring access to abortion services. For her, this issue takes precedence over economic concerns, highlighting the deeply personal nature of the abortion debate.
Meanwhile, Trump supporters emphasize economic and national security concerns. They cite the economic prosperity of the Trump era, arguing that their wallets felt the impact of the policies implemented during his presidency. The ongoing wars in Ukraine and Israel are also fueling anxieties about national security, with some voters questioning Vice President Harris’s ability to handle international affairs.
Larry West, a Scranton resident, voices concerns about the security implications of the open border, citing the increase in fentanyl trafficking as a significant threat to his community. He sees Trump as the candidate who best understands these issues and would prioritize national security.
Trump and Harris campaign volunteers are actively mobilizing voters in Lackawanna County, engaging in door-to-door canvassing and registering new voters. The intensity of their efforts reflects the importance of this region in the larger electoral landscape. Susanne Green, a former Democratic voter who has become a Trump supporter, speaks to the changing political landscape, arguing that the Democratic Party has veered away from its traditional values. She emphasizes the need for a return to patriotism and a sense of national pride.
Andrew Cutillo, a Harris campaign volunteer, highlights the appeal of Harris to voters who are concerned about the future of democracy. He believes that Harris’s middle-class upbringing allows her to connect with Scranton residents and understand their daily struggles.
The race in Pennsylvania remains incredibly tight. The state’s history as a key battleground, coupled with the intense focus of both campaigns, makes this election cycle a nail-biter. Voters in Scranton are bombarded with campaign messages, reflecting the national conversation about the direction of the country. They are left to navigate a complex web of issues, weighing their personal experiences with the promises of the candidates, ultimately deciding who will lead the nation in the next chapter of its history.
