Brooks and Crosswell: Competing Visions in Pennsylvania’s 7th Congressional District

Bob Brooks delivered a concise message in a six-minute speech to union leaders and supporters in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. Brooks, head of the state firefighters union and a Democratic contender for a key House seat in the Lehigh Valley, identifies as a “working-class candidate” and person who began working with a paper route at age 10. “The whole system is rigged against us,” he declared, advocating for the election of people like himself to represent the working class in Washington, D.C.

Across town, Democratic rival Ryan Crosswell — a Marine veteran and former federal prosecutor — shared a contrasting message with NBC News. His resignation from the Justice Department over a directive to abandon a corruption case against then-New York City Mayor Eric Adams was, for him, a defining moment. He criticized the Trump administration, accusing the former president of attempting to undermine the Constitution. Crosswell aims to address corruption as a critical issue, describing it as a matter that affects everyday Americans.

The race highlights divergent philosophies for the Democratic Party. Leaders from across the party spectrum, including Sen. Bernie Sanders and Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro, support Brooks. Democratic operatives see Brooks as well-suited to connect with voters on economic issues, which they believe will dominate the upcoming election. Brooks, who does not hold a college degree, represents a demographic the party seeks to engage more effectively.

On the other side, Crosswell embodies a candidate profile the party has traditionally supported: a military background and experience in prosecution, with a focus on anti-Trump messaging. Despite his fundraising support, which surpasses Brooks by nearly $600,000, party leaders continue to align with Brooks.

Brooks, alongside Crosswell and other contenders Lamont McClure and Carol Obando-Derstine, are competing for the chance to oppose Republican Rep. Ryan Mackenzie in the fall. The region remains a battleground, with recent elections reflecting its competitive nature.

Brooks, who also operates a snow removal and lawn care business, acknowledges that many Democrats have felt alienated by the perceived elitism of the party. His bid for change resonates with those feeling left behind. The dual endorsements from Sanders and Shapiro underscore his ability to draw support from diverse party factions.

While his campaign faces challenges, including scrutiny over past social media posts and questions about his financial disclosure, Brooks remains a central figure in discussions around the party’s future direction. Not all Democrats align with him; former Rep. Susan Wild supports Obando-Derstine, and other local officials endorse McClure.

Obando-Derstine highlights the diverse voter base, noting the importance of engaging independent thinkers in the district. Brooks’s supporters argue his candidacy helps create a more inclusive party. The current race is seen as a critical test of strategies to appeal to a broader electorate.