By — Associated Press Associated Press Leave your feedback Share Copy URL https://www.pbs.org/newshour/politics/democrat-bob-brooks-wins-election-to-u-s-house-in-pennsylvanias-7th-congressional-district Email Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Pinterest Tumblr Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Democrat Bob Brooks wins election to U.S. House in Pennsylvania's 7th Congressional District Politics Nov 3, 2026 10:38 PM EST 2026 ELECTION COVERAGE: Watch Live | Poll Closing Times | All Live Results | Live Updates | Live Fact Check Democrat Bob Brooks won election Tuesday to the U.S. House of Representatives representing Pennsylvania's 7th Congressional District, defeating Republican incumbent Ryan Mackenzie. Brooks, who worked as a firefighter and union leader, concentrated on his blue-collar background, saying he understood the affordability issues facing voters in the Lehigh Valley battleground district. Mackenzie's ties to President Donald Trump, who visited for a rally over the summer, failed to lift him to a second term. The Associated Press declared Brooks the winner at 10:27 p.m. EST. Stand with free and independent journalism. Join Press Pass from PBS News A free press is a cornerstone of a healthy democracy. Support trusted journalism and civil dialogue. Donate now By —…
Democrat Bob Brooks wins election to U.S. House in Pennsylvania's 7th Congressional District
In short
Ryan Mackenzie failed to secure a second term representing Pennsylvania's 7th Congressional District despite Donald Trump personally visiting the area for a summer rally. Democrat Bob Brooks captured the seat by focusing his messaging on his blue-collar career and local affordability struggles. The Associated Press officially called the race in Brooks' favor on Tuesday evening at 10:27 p.m. EST.
Key points
- Bob Brooks successfully leveraged his background as a former firefighter and union leader…: Bob Brooks successfully leveraged his background as a former firefighter and union leader to win the election.
- Campaign messaging focused heavily on local affordability challenges resonated with voter…: Campaign messaging focused heavily on local affordability challenges resonated with voters across the Lehigh Valley.
- Donald Trump's summer rally appearance was ultimately not enough to carry incumbent Ryan…: Donald Trump's summer rally appearance was ultimately not enough to carry incumbent Ryan Mackenzie to a second term.