Rep. Summer Lee successfully secures the Democratic nomination for Pennsylvania’s 12th Congressional District, defeating challenger Bhavini Patel who criticized Lee’s response to Israel’s war in Gaza. Despite facing attacks from pro-Israel groups and Patel, Lee emphasized her record of delivering federal funds, abortion rights advocacy, and opposition from GOP billionaire Jeffrey Yass. The absence of major investments from pro-Israel organizations allowed Lee to maintain her popularity and win comfortably in a safely blue district.
The lack of outside spending from pro-Israel groups marked a more balanced competition this time, as Lee’s campaign outspent Patel’s by a significant margin. Lee’s strong standing among progressives in the district, backed by Pittsburgh Mayor Ed Gainey and Allegheny County Executive Sara Innamorato, helped secure her victory. Patel’s inability to excite even moderates who were against the incumbent further solidified Lee’s win.
Lee faced criticism from Patel for supporting an “uncommitted” write-in campaign to caution President Biden against his support for the Israeli military campaign in Gaza. However, Lee’s endorsement by Biden and her popularity among progressives helped counter these attacks. The result is seen as a major boost for progressive Democrats bracing for increased outside spending from pro-Israel and establishment-backed groups aiming to reclaim seats held by young leftists.
Lee’s campaign highlighted Patel’s denouncement of GOP megadonor Yass’ involvement in the race, leading some pro-Israel groups to stay on the sidelines. Moderate PAC president, Ty Strong, attributed this to Patel’s lack of name recognition and polling numbers, which deterred potential supporters. Despite fending off significant attacks, Lee and her supporters expressed concerns about the destabilizing impact of potential pro-Israel involvement in future campaigns.
In a largely anticlimactic result, both President Biden and former President Trump easily secure their respective presidential primaries in Pennsylvania, already having enough delegates to clinch their party nominations. Polls indicate a close general election race in battleground Pennsylvania, a crucial state in recent elections. Rep. Dwight Evans also secures the Democratic nomination for a fifth term in the Philadelphia 3rd District, defeating former city register of wills Tracey Gordon.
Patel criticizes Lee for alleged absenteeism among Jewish constituents after the October 7 attacks in Israel, claiming Lee did not engage with the community. Lee dismisses this as an intentional mischaracterization and emphasizes her presence and representation of the district. Overall, Lee’s victory in a race against heavy outside spending and attacks showcases the support of progressives and her ability to remain resilient against criticism.
