Following the 2024 US Presidential election, there is a saying that “whoever wins Pennsylvania wins the White House,” indicating that Pennsylvania is a crucial swing state for both major parties, which also applies to congressional elections. Pennsylvania holds 17 seats in the US House of Representatives, with 9 belonging to the Democratic Party and 8 to the Republican Party, making it a state where the two parties are evenly matched. In the 2024 congressional elections, both parties are engaged in battles in at least 5 districts in Pennsylvania.
In the House of Representatives, a party needs 218 seats to gain a majority. Currently, the Republican Party holds 220 seats against the Democratic party’s 211, making them a slightly weaker majority. Therefore, any slight change in a few seats can shift the balance of power between the two parties.
In Pennsylvania’s 17 congressional districts, Democrats are targeting to flip the Republican-dominated 1st and 10th districts, while Republicans are planning to take over the Democratic-held 7th, 8th, and 17th districts. Various media reports have provided insights into the state of these districts.
### Brian Fitzpatrick vs. Ashley Ehasz
One district features Republican incumbent Brian Fitzpatrick, who is being challenged by Democratic candidate Ashley Ehasz. Fitzpatrick, in seeking his 5th term as a federal congressman, is known for his independent approach and ability to collaborate across party lines.
Having an MBA from Penn State and a JD, Fitzpatrick previously served as an FBI special agent and assistant US attorney. He emphasizes his focus on increasing job opportunities for American workers and promoting the “Made in America” initiative to boost manufacturing jobs in the nation.
If re-elected, Fitzpatrick aims to continue bridging the partisan divide and advocating for simpler and fairer tax laws to benefit all Americans. He has been recognized for his efforts in the bipartisan Problem Solvers Caucus and his dedication to government reform and combating corruption in Washington.
### Ashley Ehasz
Challenging Fitzpatrick is the Democratic candidate, Ashley Ehasz, the first female graduate of the US Military Academy at West Point running for Congress. With a background as an Apache helicopter pilot and experience in county government, Ehasz advocates for women’s reproductive rights, climate action, and economic policies that address income inequality.
Ehasz supports housing affordability, pay equity, labor rights, and raising the minimum wage, aiming to create a more equitable and sustainable economy. She also prioritizes addressing the opioid crisis and bipartisan efforts to combat drug-related issues in communities.
Ehasz’s platform reflects her commitment to tackling pressing societal challenges and advocating for policies that uplift working families and promote social justice.
(To be continued for other contested districts)