U.S. Representative Summer Lee, a progressive Democrat representing the Pittsburgh area, has secured a strong lead in the mail-in ballot count for her reelection bid. Allegheny County, which makes up 90% of Pennsylvania’s 12th Congressional District, has tabulated the majority of mail-in ballots, showing Lee ahead of her challenger Bhavini Patel by a margin of 55% to 45%. This puts Lee in a favorable position to retain her seat, despite historically performing weaker among mail-in voters.
Lee’s lead in the mail-in ballot count is significant, given that the county encompasses a large portion of the district. In the past, Lee has had a tendency to perform less favorably among mail-in voters, but has ultimately secured victory by gaining a substantial lead in in-person voting. However, her strong showing in the mail-in ballots this year suggests that she has made significant inroads with this voting bloc.
Lee, who entered the political scene in 2018 as a member of the Pennsylvania House, has consistently aligned herself with progressive policies and advocated for grassroots movements. She is the first Black woman from Pennsylvania to hold federal office and is widely regarded as one of the most progressive members of Congress.
Patel, on the other hand, has positioned herself as a more mainstream Democrat, criticizing Lee for her support of progressive causes. However, the race dynamics have shifted in recent months, with Lee gaining momentum as public sentiment has become more sympathetic towards Palestinians in the wake of Israel’s siege of Gaza.
The contest between Lee and Patel has been the most contentious primary in the Pittsburgh region, with both candidates receiving significant financial support. Lee has outraised Patel in campaign contributions and has benefited from support from national progressive groups. Moderate PAC, a conservative political group, has spent heavily on pro-Patel ads.
The 12th Congressional District encompasses a diverse range of communities, including Pittsburgh, eastern Allegheny County suburbs, the Mon Valley, and various municipalities in Westmoreland County. The outcome of this primary election will have a significant impact on the political landscape of the region.
