Full Breakdown
Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro Endorses Bob Brooks in 7th Congressional District Race
12/16/2025, 12:10:17 AM
Endorsement Announcement and Candidate Background
Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro officially endorsed Bob Brooks, president of the Pennsylvania Professional Fire Fighters Association, in the Democratic primary for the 7th Congressional District. This endorsement, announced on a Sunday evening, positions Brooks as a significant contender among five candidates vying for the nomination. Shapiro's support is particularly impactful given his popularity; he won the district by over 12 percentage points in the 2022 gubernatorial election. Brooks, a retired firefighter from Bethlehem, has emphasized his commitment to organized labor and improving conditions for first responders, stating, “Gov. Shapiro's knack for bringing people together is why he's so deeply trusted in our state.”
Competitive Primary Landscape
Brooks enters a competitive primary field that includes former federal prosecutor Ryan Crosswell, energy engineer Carol Obando-Derstine, outgoing Northampton County Executive Lamont McClure, and Lehigh County Controller Mark Pinsley. Despite being the last candidate to enter the race, Brooks has quickly built a substantial campaign fund, raising over $300,000 shortly after launching his campaign. Crosswell is the only other candidate to exceed that amount, raising approximately $380,128 during the same period. The winner of this primary is expected to challenge Republican incumbent U.S. Representative Ryan Mackenzie, who narrowly defeated long-time Democratic incumbent Susan Wild in the 2024 election.
Implications of Shapiro's Endorsement
Shapiro's endorsement is part of a broader strategy to strengthen Democratic representation in Pennsylvania, a state with several competitive congressional races. The governor's involvement is seen as a move to help his party regain control of the House of Representatives, where Democrats currently hold a minority. Shapiro's actions, including headlining a fundraiser for Brooks, reflect his commitment to supporting candidates who align with his vision for the state and the Democratic Party's objectives. Political analysts suggest that a victory for Brooks could bolster Shapiro's political capital, potentially positioning him for a presidential run in 2028.
Criticism and Opposition
While Brooks has garnered significant support, including endorsements from Lt. Gov. Austin Davis and Rep. Chris Deluzio, the primary remains competitive. Critics may argue that Brooks' union ties could alienate moderate voters in a swing district. Additionally, the presence of multiple candidates could dilute the vote, complicating Brooks' path to the nomination.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I’ve seen his commitment to improving life for regular people up close, especially through his leadership in expanding PTSI coverage for first responders.” — Bob Brooks
- “Throughout his career, Bob has worked hard for the men and women of organized labor — standing up for higher wages, better healthcare, and safer working conditions. Bob has always had my back — and I am proud to endorse him in this race and stand with him in the fight to make life more affordable and get stuff done for our communities.” — Josh Shapiro
What's Next
As the primary approaches, candidates will intensify their campaigning efforts, with a focus on fundraising and voter outreach. The outcome of this primary will significantly influence the Democratic strategy in the 2026 elections, particularly in the context of Pennsylvania's shifting political landscape.
