Lehigh County executive candidates Josh Siegel and Roger MacLean engaged in a lively debate at Lehigh Carbon Community College, focusing on critical issues such as immigration enforcement, election security, crime response, and county finances. The debate highlighted significant ideological differences between the two candidates. A particularly contentious moment arose when Siegel criticized Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s recent military-style raid in Chicago, where agents rappelled onto a building and used zip ties on residents, including children. The reaction from the audience, with some laughing, prompted Siegel to denounce the action as a "serious constitutional violation." MacLean, a former Allentown police chief, defended the agents’ use of masks, citing threats and harassment they face.
The discussion then shifted to police responses to mental health crises. Siegel advocated for a model pairing officers with social workers and mental health professionals, aiming to prevent potentially lethal encounters. MacLean, drawing on his experience, argued against adding civilians to volatile situations, emphasizing the need for early intervention with individuals at risk. Housing affordability emerged as a key concern for Siegel, who proposed expanding voting access through ballot drop boxes and voting-on-demand centers. MacLean countered, advocating for fewer drop boxes and increased monitoring to prevent fraudulent ballots. Both candidates agreed on the importance of bolstering the county’s $25 million stabilization fund, intended to mitigate the impact of federal spending cuts and the Harrisburg budget impasse.
The debate intensified when Siegel questioned MacLean’s ownership of properties through a city-owned home for which he paid no property taxes, alleging he leveraged the tax advantage. MacLean defended his actions, stating he earned his properties through hard work and two jobs, and raised six children. Moderator Brad Osborne attempted to conclude the debate on a positive note, prompting the candidates to offer compliments. Siegel commended MacLean for being a dedicated father, whose children have pursued various careers including law enforcement and the military. MacLean recalled meeting Siegel during his mayoral campaign, noting his potential. Despite their differing political paths, the candidates acknowledged the competitive nature of the race, with MacLean ultimately asserting his belief in being the better choice for Lehigh County.
