Frederick "Rik" Little

Despite knowing she plans to run for Congress next year, Scranton voters handed Mayor Paige Cognetti a huge victory in her bid for another term as mayor.

Scranton’s mayoral candidates offered contrasting views of the city during a debate at the University of Scranton Thursday night. And, SNAP food assistance payments have been frozen as the federal government shutdown continues.

Candidates for Scranton mayor debated Thursday night at the University of Scranton ahead of November’s election.

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.

Former Scranton Councilman Gene Barrett and Rik Little filed to run as third-party candidates against Democratic incumbent Paige Cognetti and Republican Trish Beynon in Lackawanna County's largest municipality.