WILKES-BARRE -- Democrat Tony George is claiming victory in the race for mayor of Wilkes-Barre.
George, a councilman and former police chief, defeated three other candidates in the primary in May.
George ran on his law and order background, promising to help cut crime in the city.
"I pledge to leave the city better than I found it. I pledge to make the city safer and be responsible to the taxpayers," said George in his victory speech. "My friends, I assure you that we will take Wilkes-Barre back. We will restore law and order."
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George was opposed by Republican Frank Sorick. Sorick is a realtor and head of the Wilkes-Barre taxpayers association. His platform includes a crackdown on crime, plus an end to what he believes is corruption in the city.
"I surely hope that Tony George keeps his campaign promise not to give the city away to the people who paid for his campaign," said Sorick after conceding the election to George.
Current mayor Tom Leighton was not seeking a fourth term, but may pick up votes. There are social media sites encouraging people to write in the name of the outgoing mayor. Leighton said last week he is not "formally conducting" a write-in campaign.
