Roger MacLean, Allentown's ex-police chief, running for Lehigh County executive
Roger MacLean, Allentown’s former chief of police and city council president, has become the third Republican to announce plans to run for Lehigh County executive.
“Serving Allentown has provided me with a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities within our county,” MacLean’s Tuesday announcement said. “As Lehigh County executive, I will leverage this experience to ensure effective governance and uphold the values that make our community strong.”
MacLean joins Justin Simmons, a former state representative, and Mike Welsh, a former Allentown School Board member, in seeking the GOP nomination for the four-year post in the May 20 primary.
Democrat Josh Siegel, a state representative for the 22nd House District and former Allentown City Council member, is the only Democratic candidate thus far.
The executive seat is open because incumbent Democrat Phil Armstrong is prevented under the county’s Home Rule Charter from seeking a third term.
Candidates must submit valid nomination papers before being placed on the ballot. Petition circulation begins on Feb. 18 and ends March 11.
MacClean said he fought to protect taxpayers while on council, voting against a 26% tax hike and the establishment of a stormwater fee. He supports farmland preservation and opposes the proliferation of unnecessary warehouses.
“Lehigh County is at a pivotal moment,” MacLean said. “We must balance growth with preserving our community’s character and values. I’ve done that throughout my career, and I’ll continue that mission as county executive.”
MacLean served 39 years with the Allentown Police Department, where he rose through the ranks from cadet to chief, managing a staff of over 200 officers and a $30 million budget.
Following his 2013 retirement, he worked for 10 years for the District Attorney’s office.
He was elected to city council in 2015, serving two years as council president. He resigned to become acting mayor in 2018 when then-Mayor Ed Pawlowski was convicted in a pay-to-play scheme.
MacLean holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees in criminal justice from DeSales University.
“I am seeking the Republican nomination because I believe in time-tested conservative principles: responsible stewardship of taxpayer dollars, personal accountability and common-sense solutions that foster growth while preserving our community’s unique character,” MacLean said.