PA 12
Pa.-12 encompasses the City of Pittsburgh and much of eastern Allegheny County. After an acrimonious Democratic primary campaign that largely centered on the violence in Gaza and foreign policy, incumbent Lee emerged the clear victor. She’s running on a record of delivering over $1 billion dollars in funding for local projects including housing, infrastructure improvement, and community initiatives. James Hayes, who ran uncontested for the Republican nomination, has criticized Lee as being too radical. His platform largely centers on border security, economic deregulation, and staunch support for law enforcement.
Summer Lee
Biography
Incumbent. Grew up in North Braddock. Howard Law grad. Represented 34th Pa. House district from 2019 to 2023. Narrowly elected to U.S. House in 2022 following contested primary and general election vs. “other” Mike Doyle.
Abortion
Co-sponsored Women’s Health Protection Act and legislation to lower Black infant mortality rates. Supports abortion access, codification of Roe, and Medicaid coverage of contraceptives.
The Economy
Advocates for minimum wage increase to $17 by 2028. Staunch union supporter who has appeared at pickets. Supports PRO Act. Secured over $50 million in funding for housing and land banks. Wants to “center labor” in the sale of U.S. Steel.
War in Gaza
Has consistently called for ceasefire deal. Voted against multiple bills containing further military aid to Israel and supports an arms embargo against Israel pending an end to the conflict. Issued a joint statement with Pittsburgh leaders deploring destruction in Israel and Palestine “by right-wing leaders.”
Criminal Justice
Supports reintroduction of assault weapons ban and legislation requiring background checks and safe storage. Supports criminal justice reform that includes “poverty-prevention, mental health, and wraparound services.” Opposes mandatory minimum sentencing. Has introduced legislation combating hate speech.
Immigration
Says immigrants are helping Pittsburgh “meet its labor force demands.” Supports an easier pathway to citizenship for DREAM Act beneficiaries and other protected immigrants. Opposes family separation policies.
James Hayes
Biography
Grew up in Lancaster County. Multiple degrees including Ph.D. in business from Case Western. Son killed in shooting in New Kensington. Businessman with experience at Federal Reserve and Wabtec.
Abortion
Called the end of Roe “constitutionally correct” for return of the issue to states. Says he would not support a national abortion ban.
The Economy
Decries “overregulation” as costing the region manufacturing jobs. Supports the sale of U.S. Steel to Nippon Steel as a way to preserve employment.
War in Gaza
Says “he won’t walk away from our ally, Israel” and accused Lee of supporting extremism. Rejects characterization of Israel as “racist” or “apartheid state.” Says he “welcomed” Israeli Prime Minister’s summer visit to speak before Congress.
Criminal Justice
Says he “won’t tie the hands of our public safety workers.” Supports consistent or increased funding for police. Has voiced support for legislation “deporting violent criminals.” Says restoring safety to communities” is his second priority after border security.
Immigration
Calls “controlling the border” a “top priority” amid a “catastrophic border crisis.” In line with national Republicans, has cited incidents of crimes committed by illegal immigrants as grounds for tightening asylum regulation and higher deportation rates.
This article appears in Oct 16-22, 2024 and Election Guide (Late 2024).
