Each of the candidates vying to represent Pennsylvania’s 12th District in Washington, D.C., has different priorities.

Incumbent Democrat Summer Lee wants to focus on infrastructure as well as environmental and economic justice. Republican challenger James Hayes has focused on supporting the energy industry, supporting law enforcement to create safer communities and addressing illegal immigration at the U.S. southern border.

“I believe my values ​​most align with those of Western Pennsylvanians, especially when it comes to community safety,” said Hayes, 63, chief financial officer of a sand and sand company. gravel who is running for political office for the first time.

“A large majority of people support law enforcement and want criminals to be held accountable. Supporting the energy industry creates good-paying union jobs in the region. My opponent wants to see this industry shut down,” he said. “And we see the damage that illegal immigration does to crime, which comes from an open, uncontrolled border. »

Lee, 36, who won a contested Democratic primary against Bhavini Patel, said the collapse of the Fern Hollow Bridge in 2022 highlighted local and national infrastructure needs.

“We have already provided hundreds of millions of dollars in federal funding for these efforts,” she said. “We must continue to secure funding and focus on green energy to create union jobs while combating environmental damage. Finally, we must fight for economic justice to ensure that the working class does not face price gouging from corporations while these same people take over our political process and suppress our voices in doing so.”

The 12th Congressional District is divided between Allegheny and Westmoreland counties. It includes:

• In Westmoreland County: Adamsburg, Arona, Export, Jeannette, Irwin, Madison, Manor, Murrysville, North Huntingdon, North Irwin, Penn Borough, Penn Township, Sewickley Township, Sutersville, Trafford and parts of Hempfield and South Huntingdon.

• In Allegheny County: Pittsburgh and extends from Plum and Monroeville north to Bethel Park, Jefferson Hills, McKeesport, South Park, West Mifflin, Whitehall and parts of Swissvale.

Hayes also emphasized his strong support for Israel.

“I think they are one of our best allies in the world – a thriving democracy in the Middle East,” he said. “I think it’s strategically important, I support them and their efforts, and my opponent has made remarks that are at odds with the safety and security of Israel.”

Lee said his first term taught him the value of coalition building.

“That’s the key to getting results,” she said. “Whether fighting for infrastructure, fighting for environmental justice, or exerting corporate influence in our democracy, we have built powerful partnerships with unions, community leaders, and local elected officials. I will continue to fight for investments in infrastructure, creating good-paying jobs, and working to ensure Black, Brown, and working-class voices are heard in our government.