At a time when Democrats are debating the future of the party and who to support, politicians, labor leaders, and key stakeholders within the party are lining up behind Bob Brooks, a retired firefighter of 20 years and President of the Pennsylvania Professional Fire Fighters Association (PPFA). Their goal? To unseat US House Rep. Ryan Mackenzie (R-Lehigh) in the 2026 midterm elections.
Brooks announced on Monday that he secured endorsements from the Teamsters Local 773, which represents 7,000 workers across the Lehigh Valley, and Steamfitters Local 420, bringing the total number of unions endorsing Brooks up to nine.
In what’s going to be one of the most-watched races in the country, Brooks nabbed the endorsements of Gov. Josh Shapiro, Lt. Gov Austin Davis, US Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-VT), and US House Rep. Chris Deluzio (D-Allegheny) in a crowded primary field.
“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,” Shapiro said in a statement endorsing Brooks.
“Bob Brooks presents a stark contrast to the current Congressman – who has raised our costs, cut our healthcare, and attacked our freedoms. We need Bob in Congress to be my partner in delivering for Pennsylvanians. 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.”
