It’s official – longtime fire fighter, IAFF member, and Pennsylvania Professional Fire Fighters Association (PPFFA) President Bob Brooks is running for Congress. He announced his candidacy for Pennsylvania’s 7th Congressional District this week in a video released on social media.
“I got into this for the people I’ve worked alongside my whole life,” Brooks said. “There are not enough working-class people in Congress.”
Brooks joined the Bethlehem Fire Department in 2005 and spent more than 20 years serving his Eastern Pennsylvania community. He became deeply involved in IAFF Local 735 early on in his career, having held the positions of roster duty chairman, trustee, vice president, secretary-treasurer, and ultimately, president.
Washington needs more leaders like Brother Brooks, and the IAFF is proud to support his campaign.
General President Edward Kelly
In 2021, Brooks was elected president of the PPFFA. Under his leadership, the association has built strong relationships with state lawmakers and advanced legislation to improve fire fighter health and safety.
“Bob Brooks is one of us – plain and simple. He epitomizes what it means to be a union fire fighter, and he’s spent his whole career fighting for working people. I know he’ll bring that same fight to the halls of Congress,” said General President Edward Kelly. “Washington needs more leaders like Brother Brooks, and the IAFF is proud to support his campaign.”
In the first 24 hours after his launch, Brooks announced that his campaign had raised more than $100,000 in donations – a strong early showing for what will be a closely watched race.
That’s why I’m running – folks like us deserve someone in Washington who’s lived it, not just talked about it.
IAFF Member and Congressional Candidate Bob Brooks
Brooks is running on a platform centered on lowering costs for families, ensuring access to universal healthcare, and prioritizing the needs of workers.
“I’ve spent decades running into burning buildings and sitting across the table from management fighting for fair contracts. I know what it’s like to have your safety on the line, to work a few jobs to cover the bills, and to have someone try to tell you your work isn’t worth what you know it is,” said Brooks.
“That’s why I’m running – folks like us deserve someone in Washington who’s lived it, not just talked about it.”
In addition to the IAFF’s support, Brooks entered the race this week with endorsements from Pennsylvania Lt. Governor Austin Davis, longtime Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders, Pennsylvania Congressman Chris Deluzio, SEIU’s Pennsylvania State Council, and other leaders from across the Commonwealth.
To support Brooks’ campaign, visit brooksforcongress.com.
