The crowded race for the Democratic nomination for the 7th Congressional District may have gained some separation on Monday, as Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro endorsed Bob Brooks for the seat.

Brooks, president of the Pennsylvania Professional Fire Fighters Association, now has something that the other four Democratic candidates do not – the support of a popular governor running for reelection.

“Bob Brooks is a firefighter who has spent his life running towards danger and showing up on our worst days to protect Pennsylvanians and keep our families safe – and he is the fighter our friends and neighbors all across the Lehigh Valley deserve in Washington,” said Shapiro. 

“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 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.”

“I’ve gotten to know Governor Shapiro through my work fighting for better wages, better healthcare, and safer working conditions for firefighters,” said Brooks. “I’ve seen his commitment to improving life for regular people up close, especially through his leadership in expanding PTSI coverage for first responders. Governor Shapiro’s knack for bringing people together is why he’s so deeply trusted in our state, and his endorsement is a powerful vote of confidence in our campaign. I’m grateful to have his support as we keep up the fight for the families and communities we both serve.”

Shapiro carried PA-07 by 13 points in his successful gubernatorial campaign in 2022.

Brooks adds the governor to a growing list of endorsements, including Lt. Gov. Austin Davis, Rep. Chris Deluzio (D-17), Allentown Mayor Matt Tuerk, and a host of elected state officials and unions.

“Josh Shapiro and I agree – Bob Brooks is ready to win and fight hard for Pennsylvania in Congress,” tweeted Deluzio. “Let’s go!”

Brooks faces a primary filled with competition that includes former federal prosecutor Ryan Crosswell, energy engineer Carol Obando-Derstine, outgoing Northampton County Executive Lamont McClure, and Lehigh County controller Mark Pinsley.

The quintet is all hoping to unseat freshman Rep. Ryan Mackenzie, who defeated long-time incumbent Susan Wild in 2024 by 4,000 votes (50.5-49.5%).

The 2024 election cycle saw candidates spend a total of $38 million on the congressional race. Since Pennsylvania redrew its congressional map in 2022, the PA-07 race has been decided by less than three points each time, and observers expect another close race in 2026.