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Deitrick may run for Phillips' seat
Published: February 9, 2010
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share thisSUNBURY - Former Northumberland County commissioner Samuel Deitrick stepped back into politics last year through a successful bid for jury commissioner.
Now it appears he has larger ambitions.
Deitrick, a Republican, wouldn't confirm it Monday, but a formal announcement is expected by the Sunbury resident today or Wednesday that he'll seek the Republican nomination this spring for the state legislative seat now held by Merle Phillips.
Phillips, who began his career in the House of Representatives in 1981, announced last month that he won't seek re-election when his term expires at year's end.
Contact Monday, Deitrick would not officially confirm his candidacy, saying only that "something will be coming out" today or Wednesday.
Just a month ago, Deitrick returned to public office when he was sworn in as the Republican representative for jury commissioner. That is essentially a part-time position.
He spent 12 years as a Northumberland County Commissioner, serving from 1992 to 1995 and from 2000 to 2007. It was in 2007 that he lost a bid for re-election to the current board of commissioners, Vinny Clausi, Kurt Masser and Chairman Frank Sawicki.
Shortly after the election, Deitrick told the media that he would not rule out the possibility of running for public office in the future.
Deitrick would be the second candidate to declare his intentions for Phillips' seat in the legislature. Northumberland County Controller Chuck Erdman, also a Republican, announced his candidacy Feb. 3.
Trevorton attorney Anthony Michetti is reportedly considering a run for the Democratic nomination. He unsuccessfully challenged Phillips twice in the past.
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