State Rep. Eric Weaknecht has announced he will seek a second term in office.
Weaknecht, a Lower Heidelberg Township Republican, will seek to keep his seat representing the 5th Legislative District. He was first elected in 2024.
“Serving the people of this district has been one of the greatest honors, and I will continue to deliver results rooted in integrity, accountability and a strong commitment to public service,” he said in a release announcing his candidacy.
Weaknecht, who served for 15 years as Berks County Sheriff before running for a seat in the state House, said he has prioritized what matters most to his community during his first term in office.
He listed strengthening public safety, increasing transparency in government and ensuring taxpayer dollars are used responsibly among his accomplishments. He said he has focused on communication, relied on data to make decisions and collaborated with local partners.
Weaknecht said he has done all this while supporting law enforcement, standing up for victims and advancing commonsense policies to keep neighborhoods safe and government accountable.
State Rep. Eric Weaknecht
“As a resident of Berks County, I value the concerns of the families who call this region home,” the 61-year-old said. “My experience in office has strengthened my fight for safer communities, efficient government and leadership to prioritize people first — not politics.”
Weaknecht said the residents of his district deserve a representative who shows up, listens and delivers results.
His district stretches across western Berks County. Its geographic footprint in Berks is the largest of any state House district, encompassing 20 municipalities in their entirety and part of Spring Township.
“I’m seeking reelection to build a stronger foundation and work with community members and local leaders to advance practical, results-oriented solutions that move our district forward,” he said.
Meet the candidate
Candidate: Eric Weaknecht, 61, Lower Heidelberg Township.
Position sought: State representative for the 5th District, which stretches across western Berks County encompassing 20 municipalities in their entirety and part of Spring Township.
Current salary for position: $113,591.
Background: Weaknecht was elected in 2024 to represent the 5th Legislative District. Prior to that election, he served as Berks County sheriff since 2008. He started his career in the sheriff’s office in 1984 as a deputy.