Rep. Tim Holden is new to NEPA; the 20-year Congressman acquired Scranton and Wilkes-Barre in the latest round of redistricting. And since his challenger, attorney Matt Cartwright, hails from Moosic, those areas will be a key bellwether in the race. This week Holden picked up three local endorsements.

Democratic committees in the Lackawanna County boroughs of Archbald, Jessup and Olyphant, north of Scranton, voted to back Holden. The first, Archibald, is significant because it’s the home base of the Munleys, Cartwright’s in-laws and law partners.

“Northeastern Pennsylvania needs an experienced fighter in Washington D.C. who isn’t afraid to do what is right to protect our seniors, children, veterans and working people,” Holden said in a statement. “I am committed to fight against Republicans in Congress whose interests are not in line with this district.”

Lackawanna County Democratic Chairman Harry McGrath said this Saturday’s St. Patrick’s Day parade in Scranton is the typical kickoff to the primary campaign season. The County Democratic Committee plans to hold its endorsement meeting on March 18. McGrath said he couldn’t venture a guess at the outcome.

Cartwright’s campaign dismissed the endorsements, and pointed to his support from the American Association for Justice – formerly the Association of Trial Lawyers of America.

“Matt Cartwright is running for Congress because Northeast Pennsylvania needs more jobs and he believes every American has a right to quality, affordable health care. We expect the rank and file establishment to fall in line with the assumed incumbent,” said campaign manager Shane Seaver. “Mr. Holden and the rank and file are the problem, not the solution.”