State Rep. Lou Schmitt (R-Blair) announced his candidacy for judge for Blair County’s Court of Common of Pleas on Friday.

Schmitt began his fourth term in Harrisburg last Tuesday, saying “the swearing-in ceremony today was a time to renew my commitment to making sure the people of Altoona, Tunnelhill and Logan and Alleghany townships are well represented in the House. They are the folks who sent me to Harrisburg, and for that, I am eternally grateful.”

Less than a week later, Schmitt said that many citizens of the county have asked him to come home in order to be their judge, according to a campaign news release.

“I want you to know I have heard your calls and I have listened,” Schmitt said. “I will be a candidate for Blair County Judge and I’m asking for your support as I come home to help all of Blair County.”

Former Blair County Sheriff Mitch Cooper offered a strong endorsement of Schmitt’s ‘law and order’ record.

“Once again, there are two Judge vacancies in Blair County. I can tell you that’s not good for ‘law and order’ here in our county. Lou Schmitt has been an outstanding State Representative and now we need Lou to come home to be our judge. It’s the right thing for Lou to do.”

Schmitt said he recognizes the difference between being a legislator and being a Judge.

“The legislature is the policy-making branch of government. The legislative branch makes the law. The judicial branch must follow the law.” As a judge, (I) will abide by the Constitution and follow the law as written by the legislature.”

A native of Blair County, Schmitt is a graduate of Saint Francis University and the University of New Hampshire School of Law.

Blair County is looking to replace two judges. Paula Aigner, a magisterial district judge in Hollidaysburg, and attorney Mike Routch, vice chair of the Blair County Republican committee, have also announced their candidacies for the position.