John Cole, Central Square

(The Center Square) – Speaking at the annual meeting of the Pennsylvania Teamsters Conference in Hershey earlier this week, the Democratic Party Lt. Governor Austin Davis he made a promise to members as he and his boss, Josh Shapiro, seek a second term in November.

“I want to be clear, brothers and sisters, every employee deserves a safe workplace. Every employee deserves the benefits and pensions that they have negotiated for and earned,” Davis said. “And as long as Josh Shapiro and I rule in Harrisburg. In this Community, the right to work is dead, and trade unions are coming to life.”

Conference represents approximately 95,000 working Teamsters. The International Brotherhood of Teamsters, to which he belongs, represents 1.4 million workers, from newspaper reporters to animal guardians, police officers, truck drivers and everyone in between.

As Davis said in his speech, the administration has protected the rights of these workers through expanded apprenticeship programs and increased enforcement efforts against companies that engage in wage theft.

“Over the last three years, we have refunded more than $15 million in unpaid wages to workers across the Commonwealth to make sure that if you work hard, you get what you are owed,” he said.

Although Davis spent most of his speech promoting the work of the Shapiro administration, he was also cautious President Donald Trumpsaying there is “continuous chaos and confusion” coming from the White House.

“Over the last year, the Trump administration has deliberately targeted workers by busting unions, eroding worker protections and forcing higher costs and giving tax breaks to millionaires and billionaires,” Davis said.

“With gas prices in the Commonwealth exceeding $4 a gallon, Pennsylvanians spent over $238 million more on filling up their tanks last month because of this reckless policy,” he continued. “Despite the policies that are causing these increases, the Governor and I remain focused on ensuring that the economy here in Pennsylvania works for all of us.”

Davis didn’t mention it State Treasurer Stacy Garritythe GOP’s likely candidate for governor, by name during his speech on Monday.

On Monday, several candidates running in 2026 won the conference’s endorsement, including the Shapiro-Davis ticket. President Bill Hamilton cried Davis, the son of a union bus driver and “a great friend of truck drivers,” at their annual meeting.

“He’s always supportive. Whenever he’s asked to pitch in, he does,” Hamilton said of Shapiro. “There was never a question.”

The the union also endorsed Shapiro-Davis’ candidacy for governor in the 2022 campaign over the republican state Senator Doug Mastriano.

While unions have supported Democratic candidates for office in the past, Teamsters has supported candidates on both sides of the aisle in recent years.

In 2024 International Brotherhood of Teamsters announced that it would not support any presidential candidate. The decision came just a few months after the president’s decision Sean O’Brien caused a stir when he delivered his speech at the Republican National Convention.

Although the union did not decide to support the presidential candidate, The Pennsylvania Teamsters’ Conference approved the Harris-Walz ticket. However, polling data suggests that 60% of Pennsylvanians support Trump.

In addition to supporting Harris-Walz’s 2024 ticket, the conference has endorsed Democrats US. Senator Bob Casey for re-election, plus Eugene DePasquale for the state and state attorney general Representative Malcolm Kenyattand for the State Auditor General.

However, there is one Republican candidate for statewide office which they approved in 2024 in exchange for a Democrat – Garrity for a second term as state treasurer over a Democratic challenger Erin McClelland. Garrity failed McClelland by 6 points and break the record for most votes received by a candidate for office in Pennsylvania, a record previously held by Shapiro during his 2022 gubernatorial victory.

Several Democrats spoke at the conference and emphasized their support for Shapiro’s bid for a second term Speaker of the House of Representatives Joanna McClinton and condition Representative David Delloso.

However, the 2026 conference also included speeches from many Republicans, including: U.S. Representative Rob Bresnahan AND Brian Fitzpatrickplus condition Representative Martina White.

According to various sources, Shapiro is seen as the favorite in the race for Garrity surveys showing him a double-digit lead and national rating agencies.

Sam Gardner-Bird, manager of the International Brotherhood of Teamsters’ PAC, also expressed confidence in Shapiro’s pursuit of a second term.

“I think it’s safe to say that Governor Shapiro should be elected relatively easily,” he said. “He has a challenge from Stacy Garrity.”

“In my personal opinion, it will be a real race,” he continued, although he added that he thought “it would be quite easy for him to win.” Gardner-Bird said Shapiro “cut himself out of that bipartisan mold.”

He also addressed the race for control of the Pennsylvania General Assembly, which had no votes. Gardner-Bird said they have a “Teamster majority” in the state House and if Democrats flip a few state Senate seats, it could give their union a trifecta.

“It would be a challenge, four seats, but it is doable,” he said. “And if we can get those three, we’ll have a lot of work to do on the state side.”

Gardner-Bird emphasized the importance of their support in races up and down the ballot.

“Referrals are one of our strongest leverage tools to ensure continued gains for our members,” he said.

Opinion: Senator Jay Costa

Since President Trump was sworn into office, the Pennsylvania Senate Democratic Caucus has raised alarms about how he and his cronies are enriching themselves by making backroom deals while enacting heartless policies that are hurting the wallets of working families here in Pennsylvania.

From ending SNAP benefits to removing long-time professionals from the federal government to building a ballroom, Donald Trump promised affordability for Americans during his campaign, but since taking office he has only delivered wealth for himself and his inner circle.

More than 130,000 Pennsylvanians have already lost access to health care because Trump and his Republican activists in the federal legislature chose not to provide a tax break that would ensure our families have access to high-quality, affordable health care.

Pennsylvania families spent more than $1,700 more in 2025 because of inflation under Trump, according to a Jan. 20 report by Democratic members of Congress’ Joint Economic Committee.

Families are struggling to make ends meet, and these problems affect Pennsylvanians regardless of party, zip code, race, age or faith. This crisis spares no one, no matter how they voted.

When Pennsylvania families look to Republican Party leaders in Washington and Harrisburg, they don’t find leaders committed to getting to work and solving problems – like skyrocketing health care costs, exorbitant gas prices, an unpredictable child care market and stagnant wages.

Our message is clear: While Republican leadership fails and falters at every level, the Shapiro Administration, House Democrats, and Senate Democrats stand ready to pass commonsense, bipartisan legislation that puts money back into Pennsylvania families.

Every member of the AP Senate Democratic caucus can tell you that affordability is a top concern for their constituents, whether they represent Philadelphia, the Lehigh Valley, Lancaster, Harrisburg or Pittsburgh.

That’s why our members have introduced and supported legislation that will not only reduce the cost burden on Pennsylvania families, but also expand their economic opportunities by increasing their take-home pay.

First, Senate Democrats have long supported raising Pennsylvania’s minimum wage to $15 an hour. Senator Tina Tartaglione has spoken out every year to highlight the miserable wages of thousands of Pennsylvanians and the benefits that a $15 minimum wage provides to workers, employers, families and communities.

The House of Representatives has sent the Senate bipartisan legislation that would raise Pennsylvania’s minimum wage to $15 an hour on January 1, 2029 – legislation supported by an overwhelming majority of residents. However, despite the urgent need to enhance wages for employees, this bill has been languishing in the Senate for months.

Senate Democrats have also advocated for tax breaks specifically for working families, including expanding Pennsylvania’s working tax credit and child care tax credits. If we want families to grow, prosper and create lifelong memories here in Pennsylvania, we must do everything we can to keep money in their wallets.

Overall, housing costs continue to plague families in every county. Senate Democrats have advocated for several bills that would make it easier to build affordable homes and also remove barriers for families to access affordable homes, including the Golden Girls Act, sealing evictions, protecting artificial home communities and more. We also strongly supported Governor Shapiro’s housing action plan to build more homes and lower housing costs.

And finally, Senate Democrats are on the front lines ensuring that every family, especially our children, can put food on the table and enjoy life without growing hunger pangs. When President Trump suspended SNAP benefits, our members jumped into action, volunteering at food banks, advocating for increased food assistance, and demanding accountability from federal lawmakers.

In this year’s budget, Senate Democrats fully support Universal Free School Breakfast and Lunch so that no child has to learn on an empty stomach. Not only does this improve the educational outcomes of our teenage students, but free school meals free parents from the worry and shame of lunch debt or SNAP benefits not stretching far enough.

Good morning! Kentucky Derby weekend is upon us.

PA Policy Playbook Headlines. Thompson receives the farm bill across the finish line. SCOTUS limits Voting Rights Act, but impact on Pennsylvania likely circumscribed. Allentown’s House of Representatives primaries reveal a split in the Democratic Party. Craft breweries are producing less beer in Pennsylvania

Your morning, pick me up. Gettin’ Jiggy Wit It. Will Smith

Weather in Pennsylvania
Washington | Chance of Precipitation, 58
Grantville | Rising Clouds, 63
Devon | Sunny, 64

Sports PA
Pirates (16-17) | Saint Louis 5-10 | Friday-Sunday vs. Cincinnati
Phillies (12-19) | San Francisco 3-2, 6-5 (10) | Friday-Sunday in Miami
Sixes (3-3) | Boston 106-93 | I was based in Boston
Flyers (0-0) | I was sitting in Carolina
Union (1-1-8) | I was based in Nashville

Tips. PoliticsPA is Pennsylvania’s leading source of unbiased political news and analysis. Tips and press releases can be submitted [email protected].

PoliticsPA Guide was developed by Steve Ulrich. To read in your browser click here.

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The most essential story

1. Thompson receives the farm bill across the finish line

“The House passed the Agriculture, Food, and Homeland Security Act of 2026 (H.R. 7567) on a final vote of 224 to 200 after months of uncertainty about whether Republican leaders would be able to provide enough support to pass the legislation.

The bill reauthorizes key USDA programs through 2031. The bill updates agricultural policy to strengthen supply chains, expand producers’ access to credit, and improve crop insurance. By investing in broadband networks and infrastructure in rural areas, the program addresses contemporary challenges, supporting our farmers, breeders and foresters.” | PolitykaPA

Elsewhere

Pennsylvania shifts network costs to data centers. “Pennsylvania, the epicenter of the data center boom, is finalizing a new framework that will allow energy-intensive facilities to pay more for the electric grid. On Thursday, the Pennsylvania Public Utilities Commission by a 5-0 majority adopted a new rate model for heavy-duty customers, essentially establishing new guidelines for how the commonwealth’s utilities can ensure the public doesn’t pay for data center infrastructure. ” | POLICY

Something liberals and conservatives agree on: hating data centers. “Americans are dissatisfied with these projects, polls show, and the sentiment is deeply bipartisan. How will this change our politics?” | New York Times

Fetterman’s stock purchase is subject to scrutiny over the timing and role of the Senate committee. “Senator John Fetterman’s recent stock purchase raises eyebrows because of its timing and the fact that the company reportedly received billions in federal funding overseen by his committee.” | PennLive

Meuser lashes out at TMZ reporter over DHS funding questions: ‘Talk to the f***ing Democrats’. “Rep. Dan Meuser yelled at a TMZ reporter who peppered him with questions about Congress’s inability to pass a bill to fund the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the impending recess.” | Hill

A bipartisan pair of senators is introducing the Prediction Markets Act. “Sens. Dave McCormick, D-Pa., and Kirsten Gillibrand, D-N.Y., introduced legislation on Thursday that would update federal commodity regulations for prediction markets as the Trump administration seeks to assert its jurisdiction over them.” | Traffic lights

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Country

2. U.S. Supreme Court limits Voting Rights Act, but impact in Pennsylvania likely circumscribed

“The U.S. Supreme Court’s decision in a Louisiana voting rights case will make it more difficult to challenge political maps as racially discriminatory, but the ruling will likely have limited impact on statewide district maps in Pennsylvania, where the state constitution provides stronger protections against gerry gerrymandering.” | Vote for Pennsylvania

Elsewhere

Pennsylvania leaders criticize Supreme Court’s voting decision. “The Voting Rights Act has proven effective in giving more and more Black Americans a louder voice in our democracy and greater representation in our democracy,” Gov. Josh Shapiro said Thursday. “And you don’t have to be a lawyer to understand that yesterday the Supreme Court just gutted it all.” | Philadelphia Tribune

Shapiro’s office doubles down: The governor personally confirms that he has never browsed the Internet on state-owned devices. “Governor Josh Shapiro’s office has now filed a third affidavit with the Pennsylvania Office of Open Records alleging that the governor has never browsed the Internet on a state-owned device – this time claiming that Shapiro himself personally confirmed this through his chief of staff.” | Wide + Freedom

Davis says Pennsylvania will never be a right-to-work state. “Speaking at the Pennsylvania Conference of Teamsters’ annual meeting in Hershey earlier this week, Democratic Lt. Gov. Austin Davis made a promise to his members as he and his boss, Josh Shapiro, seek a second term in November.” | Central Square

Fetterman tells DHS secretary he continues to oppose the creation of ICE detention centers in two Pennsylvania counties. “After originally sharing his opposition to detention centers in Schuylkill and Berks counties with former Secretary of Homeland Security Krisi Noem, Senator John Fetterman has reiterated his position to new Secretary of Homeland Security Markwayne Mullin, a former Senate colleague whose nomination Fetterman supported.” | PennLive

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Around the Republic of Poland

3. How the 2026 primary for the Allentown House seat exposes the split in the Democratic Party

“A hotly contested Democratic primary in the heart of Allentown is exposing the divide between Democratic Party leadership and the more progressive wing of the party.

In a race that has major implications for Democratic power in Harrisburg, Democratic state Rep. Ana Tiburcio — trying to keep her 22nd District seat, which she won in a special election in February — faces a primary challenge from Ce-Ce Gerlach, an Allentown City Council member and former school board member. | Morning call

Elsewhere

PA-07: Brooks presents his “Put Out the Fire” show.. “With just over two weeks left until Pennsylvania’s May 19 primary, 7th Congressional District Democratic candidate Bob Brooks is laying out his agenda for what he will do for Lehigh Valley voters in Washington, D.C., if elected.” | PoliticsPA

‘I’m the only person who’s ever been elected official’: PA-07 primary school Dem Lamont McClure breaks records. “The former Northampton County executive highlights his Carbon County roots and his unique position as the only locally elected politician.” | City and state

PA-07 Democrats deal with deficit spending and federal business shutdowns. “Former federal prosecutor Ryan Crosswell, former Northampton County Executive Lamont McClure and Carol Obando-Derstine answered our questions about addressing the national debt and their willingness to engage in a government shutdown if elected.” | LehighValley News

Rivera announces that he will not seek re-election as Berks commissioner. “Berks County Commissioner Michael Rivera announced Thursday that he will not run for a third term in 2027.” | Reading the Eagle

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Editorial

4. What do you think about it?

• Trump has no idea what his Supreme Court just unleashed | Greg Sargent
• Pennsylvania Treasurer Blocks $1 Million to Secure Josh Shapiro’s Home One Year After Attack | Salena Zito
• SCOTUS ruling on voting rights is the Trump administration’s latest attempt to decimate Black political power | Solomon Jones
• Trump needs guidance from Democratic Congress | Bernard S. Sharfman
• John Fetterman, the White House ballroom and his departure from reality | Adriana E. Ramírez
• Leadership is not about strength | Rogette Harris

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5. Craft breweries are producing less beer in Pennsylvania

“Pennsylvania’s craft beer industry suffered last year as production declined.

Breaking news: Production among Pennsylvania craft breweries in 2025 is down about 28% from the previous year, according to the Brewers Association.

The industry’s economic impact on the state also declined by 6.5% in 2025, to $4.8 billion.

Current situation: There were 538 craft breweries operating statewide last year, five more than in 2024. That includes Pennsylvania-based Yuengling, which retained its title as the nation’s largest craft brewery in 2025. | Axios Philadelphia

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Thank you for starting your weekend with us.
May is coming. See you on Monday.

The House accepted Agriculture, Food and National Security Act 2026 (H.R. 7567) by a final majority of 224 to 200 after months of uncertainty about whether Republican Party leaders would be able to secure enough support to pass the bill.

The bill reauthorizes key USDA programs through 2031. The bill updates agricultural policy to strengthen supply chains, expand producers’ access to credit, and improve crop insurance. By investing in broadband networks and infrastructure in rural areas, the program addresses contemporary challenges, supporting our farmers, breeders and foresters.

“It is an honor to serve in Congress on behalf of our nation’s farmers, ranchers and rural communities,” he said Rep. Glenn “GT” Thompson (R-15), Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Agriculture. “I was proud to lead Agriculture, Food and National Security Act 2026and I am very pleased that this bill was passed with an overwhelming majority of both parties. An updated Farm Bill that meets the ongoing needs of our farmers and ranchers is long overdue, and this is a significant step toward getting agriculture back on track.”

According to the bill’s website, Pennsylvania would benefit from the following:

• Investment in an ARC/PLC security network: $155.5 million
• Investment under the voluntary nature protection program: $41 million
• Producer savings on crop insurance: $30.1 million
• Annual agricultural exports from Pennsylvania: $2.2 billion
• Annual value of specialty crops in Pennsylvania: $1.5 billion
• Annual value of livestock produced in Pennsylvania: $5.8 billion
• Pennsylvania Family Farms Saved from Death Tax: 46.6 thousand

The successful House vote marks the furthest progress the farm bill has made in Congress since the last reauthorization was signed into law in 2018.

The votes among Pennsylvania’s delegation were along party lines, with all nine Republicans voting in favor and all eight Democrats voting against.

Representative Dwight Evans (D-03), who is retiring at the end of the session, voted against this legislation.

“Republicans’ farm bill in Congress does nothing to address skyrocketing grocery prices, restore SNAP cuts, or do anything about Trump’s tariffs that hurt farmers and families. This disastrous bill is not timely yet – I voted NO.”

Rep. Chris Deluzio (D-17) agreed with Evans.

“I voted NO on the Republican farm bill because it will not lower the cost of groceries, will make families hungrier, will not do enough to help small farmers, and will shift many of the costs to the states – including Pennsylvania.”

The legislation still has a long chance of failing to become law due to political disagreements in the Senate. Thursday’s vote came after weeks of pressure from farm Republicans and agricultural lobby groups who stressed the need for largely bipartisan updates to support farmers struggling with high production costs, rising bankruptcies and economic uncertainty.

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Good morning! Goodbye April!

PA Policy Playbook Headlines. US Supreme Court limits utilize of race in congressional district map changes, Dilution of Voting Rights Act. Races to watch in the AP Democratic primary. Private water company vs. Chester. Public vs. Private PIAA Playoffs?

Your morning, pick me up. Bad luck. Social distortion

Weather in Pennsylvania
Ebensburg | Mostly dull, with a chance of rain, 50
Marietta | Partly sunlit, 63
Carbondale | Cloudy, with a chance of rain, 60

Sports PA
Pirates (16-16) | Saint Louis 4-5 | Thu vs. St. Louis
Phillies (10-19) | San Francisco ppd | Wednesday – San Francisco (2)
Sixes (2-3) | Thu vs. Boston
Leaflets (4-2) | Philadelphia 1-0 (OT) | Next vs. Karolina
Penguins (2-4) | Philadelphia 0-1 (OT)

What we hear. Bob Brooks implements the “Extinguish the Fire” program as part of its PA-07 campaign.

Tips. PoliticsPA is Pennsylvania’s leading source of unbiased political news and analysis. Tips and press releases can be submitted [email protected].

PoliticsPA Guide was developed by Steve Ulrich. To read in your browser click here.

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The most essential story

1. U.S. Supreme Court Limits Use of Race in Congressional District Map Changes, Dilution of Voting Rights Act

“On Wednesday, the Supreme Court issued an opinion sharply weakening much of the federal Voting Rights Act.

Opinion on Louisiana v. Callaiscan echo for decades. The Court’s conservative majority significantly confined the consideration of race in drawing legislative maps.

So far, Art. Section 2 of the Voting Rights Act prohibits states from using maps that dilute the voting power of minority citizens. Republicans could ultimately directly secure up to 19 seats in the House of Representatives across the country thanks to the Supreme Court’s decision.” | PolitykaPA

Elsewhere

Pennsylvania lawmakers and candidates respond to SCOTUS voting rights decision. “An extremely complex issue with extremely important ramifications on the nationwide congressional map – potentially in 2026, but definitely in 2028, 2030 and 2032. How do Pennsylvania lawmakers and candidates respond to this decision?” | PoliticsPA

What the Weakened Voting Rights Act means in America today. “The latest ruling affects a more multiracial and mobile country that is nothing like it was in 1965, raising new questions about how voting protections apply to a rapidly expanding electorate.” | Axles

AP Republicans largely support the Iran war or remain noiseless ahead of the deadline for Congress to assert its authority. “Only one of Pennsylvania’s 11 Republican congressional lawmakers suggested that President Donald Trump would break the law if he continued the war without consent.” | Questioner from Philadelphia

Where Garrity and Shapiro advocate for broadband, federal cuts and other key rural issues. “While both of Pennsylvania’s major party gubernatorial candidates are prioritizing helping rural communities, their approaches to some major issues – such as dealing with broadband installation and cuts to federal programs – could lead to significantly different outcomes for residents of more remote areas of the state.” | PA reflector

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Country

2. Here are the races to watch in the Pennsylvania Democratic primary

“This election year will usher in a race for Governor of Pennsylvania and battles for several Commonwealth Congressional seats that could upset the balance of power in the U.S. House of Representatives.

The drama is unfolding primarily on the Democrats’ side, as the party selects candidates to replace the outgoing congressman and face defenseless GOP representatives.” | USA Today Network

Elsewhere

PA-01: Bob Harvie said he doesn’t support open primary schools. Fitzpatrick calls it “an insult to independent voters.” “Tensions had already begun to simmer in Pennsylvania’s 1st Congressional District when U.S. Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick threw a jab at his likely Democratic challenger on Tuesday night.” | Questioner from Philadelphia

PA-03: Sans Stanford, Dems Rabb and Street meet for Wednesday’s PA-3 debate. “Wednesday’s televised debate between the Democratic candidates in the PA-3 primary made headlines before it even began. The hour-long debate, hosted on WHYY’s Studio 2, was missing one key candidate: Al Stanford.” | City and state

PA-7 Congressional Candidate Urges Judge to Dismiss Lawsuit Over Debt Over $162,000. “The legal battle between Lehigh Valley congressional candidate Bob Brooks and his former mother-in-law is likely to drag on beyond the May primary, after Wednesday’s hearing sparked legal battles this summer.” | LehighValley News

Pennsylvania House passes bills that would enable digital driver’s licenses and vehicle registrations. “Pennsylvania is one step closer to enabling digital driver licensing and vehicle registration after the state House passed bills this week approving the use of the technology.” | CBS Philadelphia

Advocates push for skill gaming tax as lottery losses hit programs for PA seniors. “Cuts to senior programs — like those announced earlier this month in Allegheny County — will get worse unless state lawmakers take action to replace declining Pennsylvania lottery revenues, said Rebecca May-Cole, executive director of the Pennsylvania Association of Regional Agencies for Aging.” | WESA

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Around the Republic of Poland

3. From public to private? The future of the Pennsylvania reservoir remains unclear

“Katarzyna Miller has a message for private investors interested in purchasing the Octoraro tank: It is not for sale.

“It’s not in the interest of our ratepayers,” said Miller, who heads the anti-privatization campaign for the Chester Water Authority (CWA), which owns the 520-acre reservoir in southeastern Pennsylvania. But this peaceful neighborhood has turned into a legal battleground over the past decade, pitting CWA and its ratepayers against a private water company and a cash-strapped town: Chester, Pennsylvania.’ | Gulf Journal

Elsewhere

Cellphone ban in Pennsylvania schools supported, with many exceptions. “On Tuesday, a House committee moved one step closer to eliminating major distractions in schools by passing a bill that — with many exceptions — would prohibit students from using cell phones during the school day.” | Central Square

Innamorato: We used the NFL draft to fund Pittsburgh’s future. “Last week’s National Football League (NFL) draft in Pittsburgh and the surrounding festivities were a record success, drawing more than 800,000 fans to the event, but Allegheny County Executive Sara Innamorato wants to focus on the project’s lasting impact on the local community.” | Key

York hired numerous consultants, many without City Council oversight. “York Mayor Sandie Walker has hired at least eight consultants since taking office, signing a number of contracts just below the reporting threshold that would require City Council scrutiny.” | York daily record

A supervisor calls police to a building in Muncy Township. “State troopers arrived last night after a prematurely adjourned meeting in Muncy Township, with participants wondering whether their right to peacefully assemble had been violated.” | North-CentralPA

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Editorial

4. What do you think about it?

• Voters may now be disenfranchised | Adam Serwer
• The Supreme Court’s ruling strengthens the position of minorities. Now Democrats will have to get votes | Alice Nieves
• Five former PA governors show current leaders how a bipartisan approach should work | John Baer
• SEPTA’s decision to focus on housing, not parking, is a victory for southeastern Pennsylvania | Questioner from Philadelphia
• Let’s do it again, Pittsburgh | Pittsburgh Postal Newspaper
• Was the NFL draft a failed fundraiser or a promotional opportunity? | Grandstand overview
• Report on America from the Townie Bar | David Mills
• While Trump Builds Ballrooms, Pennsylvania Families Lose Health Care and Food Assistance | Senator Jay Costa
• Setting a Record on Dauphin County’s Democratic Endorsement Process | Kelly D.Summerford
• The Pennsylvania Human Rights Commission Can’t ‘Get It Done’ | Wide + Freedom
• We know how to stop speeding here, so why not everywhere? | Rep. Tarik Khan

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5. The House of Representatives passes a bill authorizing the PIAA to split public and private competitions

“The state House advanced legislation Wednesday that would allow the PIAA to separate public and private schools into different postseason playoff systems.

The passage of House Bill 41 allows the PIAA, the governing body for Pennsylvania high school athletics, to separate border and non-border schools for postseason play.

Border schools are public schools that serve students who live in a specific, designated geographic area. Foreign schools, which include private, Catholic and charter schools, have no geographical restrictions and can attract students from anywhere.’ | PennLive

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Thank you for starting your day with us.
Thank you, April. It was fun. See you tomorrow.

With just over two weeks until Pennsylvania’s May 19 primary, the Democratic candidate for the 7th Congressional District Bob Brooks he lays out his agenda for what he will do for Washington’s Lehigh Valley voters if elected.

Brooks, president Pennsylvania Professional Firefighters Associationunveiled his “Put Out the Fire” program, which focuses on cutting costs for middle- and working-class people while rooting out the corruption that allows elected leaders to “get rich off their backs.”

“I became a firefighter because I wanted to serve the community I loved,” Brooks said. For 20 years I have learned courage, selflessness, brotherhood and what it means to run towards the fire.

“As president of the Pennsylvania Firefighters Association, I learned how to advocate for working families like my own and those of my members. I fought for legislation that impacted the lives of those who trusted me. But I also learned how broken government can be, especially when it is used as a tool by large corporations and the ultra-wealthy to advance their own interests and exploit ordinary people.”

Brooks, who has three other contenders for the Democratic nomination as a former federal prosecutor Ryan Crosswellformer Northampton County Executive Lamont McClureand director of energy Carol Obando-Derstinedrawing on his past with PPFFA, explaining what he thinks needs to be done in DC

“Right now, Washington is on fire, and the arsonists are a corrupt political class intent on increasing and maintaining their own power, and large corporations that cheat the system into working for them and no one else,” he continued. “When corrupt politicians in Washington give tax breaks to their ultra-rich cronies or pass legislation that benefits their ultra-wealthy campaign donors, it simply means they are not working for you. We need to get back to Congress and work for the people who work in this country, not just the wealthy and well-connected.”

“Put an end Donald Trump program and failure Ryan Mackenzie must be our immediate priority, but that’s not the only reason I decided to run for Congress. I decided to run to stand up for everyday people in Pennsylvania’s 7th Congressional District the same way I do for my union members. If elected, this will be my mission every day.”

His “Put Out the Fire” program has two components – ending the corruption that politicians engage in on a daily basis, and lowering costs for the country’s working people and middle classes.

• Prohibit members of Congress from trading stocks
• Prohibit members of Congress from becoming lobbyists
• Institute term limits for members of Congress
• Overthrow Citizens United v. FEC and end corporate control of the campaign finance system
• Break corporate monopolies.

“No one should get rich from public service,” Brooks said. “If you are a member of Congress, you should not be able to profit from trading stocks while writing laws to regulate our economy or receiving secret information that the rest of society does not have. While I am in Congress, I have committed to divesting all stocks. It should be simple.”

Brooks said he supports term limits of 10 years in the U.S. House of Representatives (five terms) and 12 years in the U.S. Senate (two terms) and would sponsor a bill to enact them while pledging to serve no more than five terms.

He also called for a change to the constitution, which would invalidate it Citizens United end the corrupt influence of substantial money in politics and break up corporate monopolies that violate antitrust laws.

Brooks, the only candidate of the four who did not attend college, has taken up the mantle of fighting for the middle class and working people and is proposing the following:

• Pass the PRO (Protecting the Right to Organize) Act.
• Guarantee affordable health care and lower out-of-pocket drug costs
• Build more apartments and prohibit private equity funds from purchasing housing stock
• Tax the ultra-rich and cut taxes for working people.

“I have been a labor leader and union member for several decades – reversing the declining power of working people is my top priority. It starts with expanding union membership,” he said. He says he wants to make it easier to join a union and “it’s long past time for more people to get good-paying union jobs.”

He shared a personal story of having to choose between going into medical debt or forgoing medical care for a loved one. “The federal government should guarantee health care for every American,” he said. “As we work to achieve this goal, we must reverse the cuts to the One Big Beautiful Act and extend the Affordable Care Act subsidies that Ryan Mackenzie allowed to expire and cause health care premiums to skyrocket.”

Brooks lamented the fact that the average age of Americans buying their first home has increased from 28 to 40. “We must significantly increase the number of apartments we build, increasing supply to reduce costs. We must also prohibit Wall Street from buying up the housing stock by passing legislation like the Stop Wall Street Landlords Act, which would help stop mass investors and Wall Street from buying up the housing stock intended for working families.”

He also calls for taxing people with a net worth of at least $50 million and signs on Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) and her The “ultramillionaire” tax.claiming it will generate an estimated $6.2 trillion in federal revenue over the next decade.

Warren supported Brooks, saying he “has spent his entire career fighting for people and their well-being, not billionaires and corporations. I’m proud to support him and help him get to Washington.”

“It’s time for the ultra-wealthy to pay taxes and invest in Pennsylvania’s working people,” Brooks said.

In a recent poll of PA-07 Democrats, sponsored by the Congressional Progressive Caucus PAC, Brooks has a seven-point lead (24-17%) over McClure, with Obando-Derstine and Crosswell leading by 12 and 9 percent, respectively.

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The Supreme Court on Wednesday overturned Louisiana’s second majority Black congressional district in a decision that could open the door for Republican-led states to eliminate Black and Latino districts that favor Democrats and influence the balance of power in Congress.

The Decision does not repeal this provision completely. Justice Samuel Alito they saw it as an “update” to the framework that has governed Voting Rights Act cases for decades, while dissenting liberal justices called it a “demeanor” of the law.

But under the majority readingAlito agreed that the Constitution did not tolerate Louisiana’s novel majority black district.

“This map is an unconstitutional gerrymander and its use would violate plaintiffs’ constitutional rights,” Alito wrote.

In dissent, the Supreme Court’s three liberal justices called it a “now complete dismantling” of the Voting Rights Act.

An extremely complicated matter, with extremely significant repercussions on the nationwide map of the Congress – potentially in 2026, but certainly in 2028, 2030 and 2032.

How are Pennsylvania lawmakers and candidates reacting to this decision?

Another terrible SCOTUS ruling gutting the Voting Rights Act and allowing voter suppression.

Our democracy is stronger when voters can choose their representatives, not when representatives choose their voters. https://t.co/9UAD9I7i26

— Congresswoman Mary Gay Scanlon (@RepMGS) April 29, 2026

As Justice Kagan writes in his dissent, today’s Supreme Court decision does not “update” the Voting Rights Act – in fact, it eviscerates it.

I join my colleagues in the Congressional Black Caucus in this call to black voters and all Americans of good will: “Our presence at the ballot box in November… https://t.co/n6hVqBskDV

— Congressman Dwight Evans (@RepDwightEvans) April 29, 2026

The Voting Rights Act provides equal opportunities for underrepresented groups to ensure they have a voice in our democracy.

The Court’s appalling decision to pervert the Voting Rights Act undermines the pioneering and morally necessary work of civil rights heroes who risked… https://t.co/WbtySpm4ko

— Chrissy Houlahan (@RepHoulahan) April 29, 2026

Republicans and their extremist Supreme Court do not want black people to have the right to vote and be represented. This coordinated seizure of power is dismantling democracy as we know it.

We must pass the John Lewis Voting Rights Support Act immediately. https://t.co/2jXLQuDewe

— Rep. Summer Lee (@RepSummerLee) April 29, 2026

Today’s Supreme Court decision will empower Trump and Republicans to suppress voters of color.

Republicans want to rig our elections to their advantage, but Democrats won’t let them.

We will fight against this attack on our democracy.

— House Democrats (@HouseDemocrats) April 29, 2026

The United States Supreme Court just weakened a cornerstone of our democracy.

The Voting Rights Act exists to protect every American’s vote – this decision sets us back.

We must continue to fight to ensure free, fair and accessible elections for all. pic.twitter.com/AL1Q2ylsis

— Austin Davis (@AustinDavisPA) April 29, 2026

Today’s 6-3 decision gutting Section 2 of the Voting Rights Act is utterly repugnant. Chief Justice Roberts has spent his entire career dismantling this law, and Justice Alito’s opinion is the worst yet.

This is a novel, obscure chapter in our nation’s history. AND… https://t.co/nvF6Bs3qzI

— Rep. Malcolm Kenyatta (@malcolmkenyatta) April 29, 2026

I am very disappointed with the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision today to further weaken the Voting Rights Act. I hope to work in Congress next year to advance civil and voting rights.

— Janelle Stelson (@JanelleStelson) April 29, 2026

This story will be updated with additional comments.

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Good morning! You’re halfway through the weekend.

PA Policy Playbook Headlines. Democrats have a 10-point lead over Republicans ahead of midterm elections: poll. Report: Pennsylvania’s richest billionaire profits from school voucher program. 6abc caught reviewing Disney TV licenses. Taylor Swift registers her voice and likeness as a trademark

Your morning, pick me up. Good love Young Breeds

Weather in Pennsylvania
Moon | Showers, 63
Milesburg | Rain, 59
Top of the mountain | Cloudy, rain possible, 58

Sports PA
Pirates (16-15) | Saint Louis 7-11 | Wednesday vs. St. Louis
Phillies (10-19) | San Francisco 7-0 | Wednesday vs. San Francisco
Sixes (2-3) | Boston 113-97 | Thu vs. Boston
Leaflets (3-2) | Wednesday in Philadelphia
Penguins (2-3) | Wednesday in Philadelphia

What’s happening today. The House meets at 11:00.

What we hear. Congressman Rob Bresnahan announced today that it has received the endorsement of Boilermakers Local Lodge No. 13, representing the skilled tradespeople who build and maintain critical infrastructure that powers communities throughout Pennsylvania and the rest of the country.

What are we watching?. Subscribe to our YouTube channel in the latest edition of our Voices of Reason podcast and all episodes.

Tips. PoliticsPA is Pennsylvania’s leading source of unbiased political news and analysis. Tips and press releases can be submitted [email protected].

PoliticsPA Guide was developed by Steve Ulrich. To read in your browser click here.

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The most significant story

1. Democrats have a 10-point lead over Republicans heading into the midterm elections: poll

“Democrats have a 10-point lead over Republicans in overall congressional votes, according to the latest in a series of polls, and the party is in a mighty position heading into November’s midterm elections.

In a three-day Emerson College Polling poll conducted last weekend, 50 percent of likely voters said they would support an average Democratic candidate for Congress, and 40 percent said they would prefer an average Republican in November. Another 10 percent say they are not sure.

“Democrats’ strength comes from growing support among Latino voters, women and independents.” Spencer Kimballexecutive director of Emerson College Polling, said.” | Hill

Elsewhere

PA-01: ‘A seat we must win’: Bucks County Democrats Bob Harvie and Lucia Simonelli fight ahead of primary to challenge Fitzpatrick. “Two Democrats seeking to unseat U.S. Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick later this year put their proposals before voters ahead of their party’s primary, which was scheduled to take place in just three weeks.” | Questioner from Philadelphia

PA-03: Stanford suggests Congress could enforce immigration laws if ICE is abolished. “Should Congress be responsible for enforcing immigration laws? Physician Ala Stanford, a first-time candidate running to replace retiring U.S. Rep. Dwight Evans in Congress, seemed to suggest as much in an interview with NBC10 that aired Friday and that drew attention to her stance on immigration in the days that followed.” | Questioner from Philadelphia

PA-07 Democrats delve into NATO, foreign aid and war. “Lehigh Valley Public Media asked former federal prosecutor Ryan Crosswell, former Northampton County Executive Lamont McClure and energy engineer Carol Obando-Derstine to weigh in on the Iran conflict and how Congress should adapt to the changing geopolitical climate.” | LehighValley News

Report sexual misconduct? It’s not that plain, workers say. “Nearly a decade after workplace harassment laws changed on Capitol Hill, employees don’t feel completely comfortable reporting misconduct — that is, if they even know where to turn, as multiple lawmakers and advisers told Roll Call.” | Roll call

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Country

2. Report: Pennsylvania’s richest billionaire profits from school voucher program

“Organizations and private entities associated with Jeffrey YassPennsylvania’s richest billionaire and Republican Party megadonor are the top recipients of tax breaks related to the commonwealth’s two major school voucher programs, according to a new report from the Action Center on Race and the Economy (ACRE) and the LittleSis Public Accountability Initiative. Key

Elsewhere

Pennsylvania Court Grants Public Access to Voting Data in 2020 Election Dispute.. (*10*) requested by an election researcher hired last year by the Trump administration.” | AP

Hearings break out after Democratic chairman tries to bypass GOP transgender sports bills: ‘They’re petrified’. “A Pennsylvania hearing on transgender sports legislation erupted into chaos on Monday as Republicans accused Democrats of trying to bypass votes on two related bills.” | Fox News

The House of Representatives is introducing a bill to ban whites-only housing and add protections for LGBTQ people. “The Pennsylvania House has made another attempt to add LGBTQ protections to state antidiscrimination law — this time by including that language in a bill that was otherwise written to prohibit segregationists from building whites-only housing estates.” | PennLive

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Around the Republic of Poland

3. 6abc in the midst of a uncommon review of Disney’s TV licenses by the Trump administration

“The Trump administration is launching an early review of Disney’s television licenses, which includes 6abc (WPVI) in Philadelphia.

The Federal Communications Commission notified Disney of the review on Tuesday, according to FCC documents. The ruling came after President Donald Trump called out the ABC late-night host Jimmy Kimmel be fired because of a joke he told about the first lady Thursday night Melania Trump” | Questioner from Philadelphia

Elsewhere

Bilal is asking the City Council to raise its budget by 54%, more than any other city agency. “Philadelphia Sheriff Rochelle Bilal says chronic understaffing and other problems in her department could be solved with $19.3 million in new funding.” | Questioner from Philadelphia

Nicholas, Timko Present candidates for the GOP Forum. “In the 12th Legislative District, Ethan Nicholas and Scott Timko present themselves as solidly conservative and proud Republicans, although they have some nuance in their approach to politics.” | Butler the Eagle

Report: Philadelphia’s downtown is doing great despite concerns about taxes, transportation and homelessness. “Like its famous cheesesteaks, downtown Philadelphia has a strong reputation — at least that’s what the Center City district says in its annual report released Wednesday morning.” | City and state

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Editorial

4. What do you think about it?

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1 item

5. Taylor Swift trademarks her voice and likeness, apparently to protect against misuse of artificial intelligence

“Taylor Swift has taken a up-to-date legal step, apparently aimed at protecting her identity in the age of artificial intelligence – following in the actor’s footsteps Matthew McConaughey.

On Friday, April 24, Swift filed three trademark applications with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office. Two refer to the audio trademarks covering her voice: one is “Hey, it’s Taylor Swift” and the other is “Hey, it’s Taylor.”

The third trademark is a visual trademark covering “an image of Taylor Swift holding a pink guitar with a black strap and wearing a multi-colored iridescent bodysuit with silver shoes. She stands on a pink stage in front of a multi-colored microphone with purple lights in the background.” | Diversity

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