Summer Lee secures primary victory in Pennsylvania’s 12th District
Summer Lee, a prominent member of progressive lawmakers dubbed the “Squad”, overwhelmingly won the Democratic primary for Pennsylvania’s 12th Congressional District.
Defeating opponent Bhavini Patel, who was supported by Republican megadonor Jeffrey Yass, Lee reiterated her call for a Gaza cease-fire.
Patel was seen as allied with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
Her campaign aimed to court Republican and pro-Israel voters, labeling Lee as a “fringe” candidate.
Lee’s victory, with more than 95% of the vote tallied, surpasses Patel by more than 20 points.
Expressing gratitude for the support, Lee emphasized her commitment to defending democracy, fundamental rights, and marginalized communities.
She condemned the influence of right-wing interests and Republican billionaires in targeting Black and brown Democrats in primaries.