Ben Stemrich – Journalist, Entrepreneur and
Community Advocate
Ben Stemrich knows firsthand what it means to work hard and fight for something better. Born and raised in Allentown, he grew up watching his parents—working class entrepreneurs who ran multiple businesses from home—hustle to provide a good life for their family. After their divorce, his mother transitioned into senior care while his father continued in sales. Seeing their resilience, and the sacrifices of so many families like his, shaped Ben’s lifelong dedication to standing up for his community.
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Like many in Allentown, Ben has worn a lot of hats. He’s worked in pizzerias, spent nearly a decade as a local journalist covering the Lehigh Valley and Poconos, and—though he’s never held public office—he has spent years attending city council, supervisor, and commissioner other small government meetings, moderating debates, and holding leaders accountable. He believes the government should work for the people, not against them, and that trust in leadership is something earned, not assumed.
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Ben knows that real change starts with listening. Whether you want to talk about the Parking Authority, housing and tenant rights, or the local economy, he’s here to hear you out—and fight alongside you for an Allentown that works for everyone.
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And he’s not doing it alone. His running mate, Potato, the three-legged dog, is always by his side—reminding us all that resilience, loyalty, and a little bit of scrappiness can go a long way.
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If you’re ready for leadership that listens, shows up, and fights for you, Ben Stemrich is ready to get to work.
Experience
2014-2023
News Reporter/ Videographer/Anchor
For nearly a decade with Blue Ridge News 13, PBS39 & Lehigh Valley NPR. This has means Ben has sat for hundreds, if not thousands of hours in borough, commissioner, supervisor and every other type of small government meeting.
5/22 - 11/22
The Follow Up Question
Ben is the writer, producer, host of "The Follow Up Question" where he broke down what happened at Allentown City Council Meetings to make it more understandable and less time consuming. Each episode included a meeting breakdown and interview pertaining to one or more agenda item.
Volunteering
Volunteering has always been an important part of Ben Stemrich’s life. From his early years helping at Luther Crest Retirement Community to more recent efforts like calling bingo at the St. Francis Festival and organizing complimentary family portraits for residents of Allentown shelters, Ben has remained dedicated to giving back. He also donates blood several times a year, recognizing the vital role it plays in saving lives. His deep-rooted commitment to service reflects his belief that a strong community is built through compassion, connection, and collective action.
