Jeffries launches affordability agenda ahead of midterm campaign in Pennsylvania

House Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries used a rally in Pennsylvania’s 7th District on Sunday to introduce the party’s "Fighting for an Affordable America" agenda, marking the start of the 100-day countdown to the November midterm elections. Jeffries said the plan aims to lower grocery, gas and housing costs and to ensure affordable health care for all Americans.

The event, held alongside Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro, supported retired firefighter Bob Brooks, the Democratic challenger to incumbent Republican Rep. Ryan Mackenzie. Mackenzie, a freshman congressman, announced his own 100-day outreach effort.

The campaign season follows a year of redistricting battles, primary contests and Supreme Court rulings on campaign finance. President Donald Trump, who is campaigning for Republican candidates, told a crowd at a Mack Truck plant in the district, "We gotta win the midterms."

Republicans are promoting the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, a tax-cut and spending-reduction proposal, and a recent House measure to limit lawmakers’ stock trading. Democrats are focusing on voter concerns about rising living costs and the war in Iran, hoping to capitalize on public disapproval of the conflict.

Control of the House will hinge on a small number of competitive districts, with fewer than 20 seats considered true toss-ups. Pennsylvania’s 7th, 1st, 8th and 10th districts are among the key battlegrounds. House Speaker Mike Johnson is scheduled to travel nationally to raise funds and campaign for Republican candidates as both parties vie for the narrow majority needed to control the chamber.

The outcome may also be influenced by a recent Supreme Court decision that allows national parties to make direct contributions to individual campaigns, potentially altering the financial dynamics of the race.