It’s often said that World War II was won right here in the Lehigh Valley — thanks to the fearless work of Pennsylvania’s men and women who produced the steel that transported and protected Allied troops around the world. Pennsylvania’s 7th District has a rich history of organized labor and manufacturing that I am so proud to continue championing in Congress.

Recent economic conditions have reminded me of that same grit, determination, and hard work that helped bring us through difficult times in years past. Advocating for working families and union rights is non-negotiable for me.

● Defend, strengthen, and support unions. When Pennsylvania workers and unions are strong, America is strong. It is critical that workers are guaranteed the right to fight for higher wages, safer working conditions, better benefits, and to collectively organize without fear of intimidation or retribution. The constant attacks on our hard-working labor force and middle class must end, and that’s why I am working to make it easier for public-sector and private workers to exercise their right to organize. Through my work on the Education and Labor Committee, I was proud to be an original backer of the Protecting the Right to Organize Act (PRO) Act and to support it when it came to a vote on the floor of the House. I have also been laser-focused on bringing good-paying union jobs home.

● Invest in training, certification, and apprenticeship programs. Our economy is rapidly evolving and we need to equip Pennsylvanians — especially those who choose to pursue vocational and trade jobs — with the tools they need to keep pace and succeed in increasingly specialized professions. PA-07 is home to some of the finest community colleges in the country, and I have used my position on the Education and Labor Committee to advocate for increased access to technical schools and apprenticeship programs so everyone can choose whichever path best prepares them for a successful future. I have consistently supported career training and skills programs that create opportunities for more high-skill, high-wage jobs that do not require a four-year college degree.