Two LV Judges Ponder State Superior Court Races

Two Lehigh Valley jurists are currently pondering a run at the State Superior Court. They are Northampton County Judge Emil Giordano, who is serving his second ten-year term; and Lehigh County Judge Doug Reichley, first elected in 2011. Both are Republicans.

Between the two of them, Judge Giordano is by far the more experienced on the bench, while Reichley's ten terms as a State Rep. might give him better connections with State Committee members.

I know and like them both. But to me, this is a no-brainer. Judge Giordano, both of whose parents came here from Italy with little more than the shirts on their backs, is very much unlike your typical judge. Most of them tend to think they've become gods, but Judge Giordano has never assumed any of the airs you sometimes see in others. He has the courage to say he does not know the answer to everything. At the same time, as is the tradition in Northampton County, he shows great respect to all people who come before him, This is a trait he no doubt learned from his parents.

He shows this same respect out of the courtroom as well. His has been a life of service. He particularly excels at coaching. One of his players was my grandson, who adores him.

I have no desire to slam Reichley, whom I consider a man of conviction and courage. Either would be excellent. But I prefer the judge with a heart.

We already have Judge Jack Panella sitting on the Superior Court, but I'd like Lehigh Valley judges occupy all fifteen seats.