Christopher Nicholas

State Rep. Eddie Day Pashinski, a Wilkes-Barre Democrat, announced last week he will step down after 20 years in the House. Political observers expect a battle royale between Democratic and Republican candidates and their allies to replace Pashinski.

Some political analysts say Scranton Mayor Paige Cognetti risks her political future by running for mayor and Congress at the same time. Others suggest she is being transparent by giving voters a clear view of her ambition.