David T. George, a retired Schuylkill Haven police officer, Marine Corps veteran and Norwegian Township supervisor, has announced his candidacy for magisterial district judge for Magisterial District Court 21-3-01 in Schuylkill County.
The position was previously held by Magisterial District Judge David Plachko in Port Carbon.
George, a lifelong county resident and Republican, said his campaign will emphasize law and order, constitutional values, community safety and the integrity of the local court system.
“I have spent my life serving and protecting the people of this county,” George said in his announcement. “As Magisterial District Judge, I will continue that service with fairness, integrity, and respect for the law.”
According to his campaign announcement, George passed the Pennsylvania Magisterial District Judge certification examination in June 2026.
Military and Law Enforcement Background
Born in Pottsville in 1972, George attended St. Vincent School in Minersville and graduated from Pottsville Area High School in 1990. He enlisted in the United States Marine Corps after graduation, attained the rank of sergeant and was honorably discharged in 1998.
George graduated from the Reading Police Academy in 2000 and worked in law enforcement for more than two decades before retiring from the Schuylkill Haven Borough Police Department in 2022.
His campaign cited his experience in criminal investigations, traffic enforcement and community policing as preparation for the judicial position.
“My experiences as a Marine, police officer, public servant, and community member have prepared me to serve as Magisterial District Judge with a steady hand and sound judgment,” George said. “I understand the responsibility of this role and the importance of upholding the law while treating every person who enters the courtroom with dignity and respect.”
Norwegian Township and Community Involvement
George is in his second term as a Norwegian Township supervisor and serves as chairman of the township’s Board of Supervisors. He currently works as a driver/laborer for Michael F. Ronca & Sons, Inc., in Bethlehem.
His community involvement includes life membership in the MarLin Citizens Fire Company, membership in the Seltzer Fire Company and service as president of the Seltzer Gun Club. He also belongs to the St. Clair and Phoenix Park Fish and Game organizations and the Frackville Elks, along with social memberships in other local organizations.
George has four children, David, Hannah, Max and Ethen, and his partner is Kelly Houtz.
November 18 Kickoff
The campaign will hold a kickoff fundraiser on , from 6 to 8 p.m. at Palermo’s Restaurant in Minersville.
According to the announcement, attendees will have an opportunity to meet George and hear about his candidacy and priorities.