In the Democratic primary for Pennsylvania’s 12th Congressional District, Rep. Summer Lee secured a victory over challenger Bhavini Patel, who criticized her response to Israel’s conflict with Gaza. Lee condemned Hamas’ actions and called for a ceasefire, facing attacks from pro-Israel groups and Patel for allegedly neglecting the Jewish community and undermining President Biden’s policy. Despite facing heavy outside spending, Lee highlighted her record of delivering federal funds to the district, advocating for abortion rights, and criticizing the influence of GOP billionaire Jeffrey Yass’s super PAC.
As a member of the progressive “squad” in the House, Lee was initially seen as a target for pro-Israel groups that spent heavily against her in the past. However, the lack of name recognition for Patel, combined with strong support from progressive groups like Working Families Party and Justice Democrats, helped Lee secure a comfortable victory. The absence of major investments from pro-Israel organizations allowed for a more balanced competition this time, with Lee outspending Patel by a significant margin.
Despite criticism from Patel over her support for an “uncommitted” campaign warning Biden about his actions in Gaza, Lee’s popularity in the district and support from progressives and the president himself helped secure her victory. The involvement of GOP megadonor Yass in the race also raised concerns, but Lee and her supporters were able to ward off the potential impact on the campaign. The race highlighted the influence of outside spending and the efforts to maintain progressive representation in Congress.
In other Pennsylvania primary races, both Biden and Trump easily secured their respective party nominations for president. The state is seen as a critical battleground for determining control of the Senate and the House. In the Senate race, Democratic incumbent Bob Casey and Republican challenger Dave McCormick are set to face off in the general election, with Casey currently holding an edge in polling. The House saw victories for incumbents like Rep. Dwight Evans in Philadelphia and Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick in the 1st District.
Several competitive House races are expected in Pennsylvania, with Republicans targeting Democratic lawmakers like Susan Wild, Matt Cartwright, and Chris Deluzio. Cartwright and Deluzio are part of the DCCC’s Frontline program for vulnerable incumbents. The statewide executive office races, including the contest for state attorney general, are also generating attention. The outcome of these races will play a significant role in shaping the political landscape in Pennsylvania and beyond.
