Pine Grove Township resident and Bern Township Police Officer Christian Lengel has officially announced his candidacy for the district judge seat in western Schuylkill County.
Lengel is running in the Republican primary this May, seeking to succeed retiring District Judge David Rossi of Tremont.
“This seems like a natural progression to my current experience as a police officer, fire marshal, and school resource officer,” Lengel said. “More importantly, it’s an opportunity to serve the community in which I was born and raised.”
Lengel’s background in public service includes roles as a volunteer firefighter, Deputy Schuylkill County Sheriff, and part-time Hegins Township Police Officer. He believes these experiences have given him a unique perspective and the skills necessary to effectively serve the people of Schuylkill County.
A graduate of Pine Grove Area High School, Lengel earned his bachelor's degree in criminal justice from Alvernia University in Reading. During his time in college, he completed training at the Reading Municipal Police Academy and later attended the Pennsylvania Sheriff and Deputy Sheriff Training Academy.
Lengel emphasized that his decision to appear solely on the Republican ballot reflects his commitment to authenticity and personal values. “Most candidates cross-file to appear on both the Republican and Democratic tickets; however, I wanted my campaign to represent who I am and be authentic to my values, and those values are Republican,” he explained.
If elected, Lengel aims to continue his lifelong dedication to public safety and community service. “I see the district judge role as an extension of my desire to make our community a safe place to live and work,” he said. “I also believe the person who holds this position must treat everyone who enters the courtroom with dignity and respect.”
Lengel’s journey in public service began as a junior firefighter with the North End Fire Company in Pine Grove, eventually rising to the rank of Captain. He says this early experience instilled in him a strong sense of duty and admiration for community service, which has carried through his career in law enforcement.
“I have a deep appreciation for the 18 western Schuylkill County municipalities in the district and pledge to represent all these municipalities and their citizens equally with integrity and trustworthiness,” Lengel said. “My local law enforcement background, my knowledge of civil processes, my understanding of how our local government works, and knowing the needs of our municipalities have left me well-positioned to be an asset in this role.”
The Republican primary election is scheduled for Tuesday, May 20.
Lengel resides in Pine Grove Township with his wife, Karen, and their five children: Alexa, Demi, Trey, Tanner, and Jaxson. He is an active member of the NRA, Pine Grove Fish & Game, and Rock Fish & Game. In his free time, he enjoys hunting, fishing, and coaching his children in various sports, including baseball and soccer.