Democratic candidates for the 22nd District State Senate debate at the University of Scranton

Democratic incumbent Marty Flynn and challenger Jeffrey Lake recently faced off in a debate at the University of Scranton for Pennsylvania's 22nd State Senate seat, just over a week before the statewide primary elections. Data center development emerged as a significant topic, reflecting ongoing community battles in areas such as Archbald, Lackawanna County, against such projects. Both candidates voiced strong opposition to data centers in residential areas. Flynn stated he is "against 1000% data centers in neighborhoods," while Lake emphasized that "nobody wants data centers within a mile of their home, nobody wants data centers within a mile of schools or playgrounds." The candidates were also questioned about their support for a three-year moratorium on new data center development. Lake unequivocally supported the pause, stating, "It's been my stand that a three-year moratorium is necessary. I've been anti-data center since day one." Flynn, however, expressed skepticism about its practical impact, arguing that existing applications would still be approved, remarking, "A moratorium doesn't stop them." The debate also touched on recreational marijuana legalization and corporate tax rates.