LEHIGH COUNTY, Pa. (WFMZ) — Two candidates who could not be more different are vying for a four-year term as Lehigh County Executive.<\/p>\n
Democratic state representative Josh Siegel says he’s running to bring a new generation of leadership. The 31-year-old currently represents Pennsylvania’s 22nd district which contains parts of Allentown and Salisbury Township.<\/p>\n
“I think the biggest issue facing Lehigh County residents is the cost-of-living crisis and housing affordability crisis. We need an executive to make sure we build enough housing in the Lehigh Valley to bring down the cost of housing, that’s critical,” Siegel told WFMZ.<\/p>\n
Siegel also says he believes in investing in resources for mental health and substance abuse.<\/p>\n
Meanwhile, Republican Roger MacLean says he’s running to ensure Siegel has a challenger that’s focused on balancing growth while preserving values. The 73-year-old previously served as Allentown’s chief of police and acting mayor. Staying true to his roots in law enforcement, MacLean’s biggest priority is safety.<\/p>\n
“Safety I think is number one anywhere. Whether you’re going to downtown Allentown or whether you’re out in a rural area of the county. I’m not going in looking to cut. I’m going in to look and see what is running efficiently. Are we getting our value for the dollar that we’re paying? People don’t want to pay more taxes,” MacLean said.<\/p>\n
MacLean has spent just over $46,000 toward his campaign. Siegel has spent about $286,000, not including an additional $161,000 from the Pa. Democratic Party and a bipartisan PAC.<\/p>\n
Democratic incumbent Phil Armstrong is term-limited so he can’t run again.<\/p>\n