John Deatrich has announced his candidacy for Pennsylvania State Representative in the 123rd Legislative District.
Deatrich, a lifelong resident of the district, confirmed his campaign on February 2, saying he plans to bring his experience in education, organized labor, and local government to Harrisburg. He said his decision to run is rooted in his personal background and long-standing involvement in the communities that make up the district.
Background and Community Ties
Deatrich lives in Palo Alto with his wife, Danielle, a nurse at Penn State Hershey Medical Center. The couple has six children. One is currently serving overseas with the United States Air Force, four are enrolled in colleges and universities, and one is a senior at Pottsville Area High School who attends Schuylkill Technology Center and plans to pursue criminal justice studies after graduation.
A graduate of Pottsville Area High School and Schuylkill Technology Center, Deatrich later earned his teaching credentials from Temple University. He initially worked in the family automotive business before transitioning into education in 2002.
He has taught career and technical education at Schuylkill Technology Center and currently teaches at Berks Career and Technology Center.
Professional and Union Experience
In addition to his work as an educator, Deatrich has been involved in organized labor. He has served as chief negotiator and president of his local Pennsylvania State Education Association union and represented the region as a delegate. He also served as a labor representative during the formation of the Berks County School Employees Health Consortium.
Deatrich has described education as his primary professional focus throughout his career.
Service in Local Government
Deatrich has held elected office in Palo Alto Borough for approximately two decades. His roles have included finance committee chair, borough council president, and, most recently, mayor.
During that time, he has been involved in negotiating intermunicipal police agreements that expanded police coverage to 24 hours a day. He has also participated in borough efforts aimed at addressing blight, strengthening housing and quality-of-life ordinances, and developing partnerships with local businesses.
Policy Priorities
If elected, Deatrich said his priorities would include addressing the impact of data centers, advocating for infrastructure funding that reflects increased commercial traffic in the district, and pursuing child care reforms aimed at supporting working families who earn above the poverty line but still face financial strain.
He said those efforts would focus on being proactive rather than reactive to emerging challenges facing the region.
About the 123rd Legislative District
The 123rd Legislative District includes portions of Pottsville, Girardville, Palo Alto, Port Carbon, New Philadelphia, Schuylkill Haven, St. Clair, New Castle Township, North Manheim Township, Norwegian Township, Wayne Township, and West Mahanoy Township.