FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

THURSDAY, JANUARY 29, 2026

CONTACT: phillydsa@gmail.com

PHILADELPHIA, PA. — Philadelphia Democratic Socialists of America has voted to endorse democratic socialist Chris Rabb for Congress in Pennsylvania’s 3rd District, the first congressional endorsement in the organization’s history. The decision brings the support of a 2,000-member, volunteer-led organization, with more than 1,000 DSA members residing in PA-03.

The district has emerged as a center of democratic socialist power in Pennsylvania, represented by DSA-endorsed socialist officials including State Reps. Rick Krajewski and Elizabeth Fiedler, and State Sen. Nikil Saval. It is also home to recent high-profile organizing fights, from GET-UP UAW winning a grad student union at the University of Pennsylvania, tenant organizing at UC Townhomes, to DSA’s campaign to save Brith Sholom—after which the Philadelphia Housing Authority agreed to purchase the senior housing complex—and Palestine solidarity organizing among students at several universities.

Rep. Rabb has pledged to reject campaign contributions from real estate developers, corporate interests, and AIPAC.

“Philadelphians are being priced out of the city they call home, while corporate interests continue to receive handouts,” said Philly DSA Co-Chair Deborah Rose Hinchey. “Rep. Rabb is a socialist ready to fight for housing, healthcare, and a dignified life for everyone—which is why we are proud to endorse him for Congress. He understands that affordability is a political choice that requires bravery, and is not just the new Democratic buzz word. We are thrilled to stand with a candidate who shares our values and our urgency for real change.” 

“As a public school teacher and committeeperson, I see firsthand how ICE is tearing families apart in our neighborhoods,” said Philly DSA Electoral Co-Chair Duncan Gromko. “We need more than the same Democratic establishment figures who pretend ICE can be reformed with training or body cams. Abolishing ICE is the absolute minimum, and our city deserves a Congressman who will unapologetically fight fascism. Rep. Rabb has never hesitated to challenge powerful interests—from calling out billionaires to demanding an end to the genocide in Gaza. Philly DSA is proud to add another socialist voice to Congress that will stand up to injustice without compromise.”

“I am so proud to stand with DSA, at a moment that feels more important than ever. We’re fighting for our survival against an ultra-rich elite that’s hell-bent on destroying everything our multiracial working class has built. For me, this is personal. My ancestors used words like justice and freedom to transform this country, and today, I’m proud to continue that legacy alongside communities of righteous struggle. Following in the footsteps of giants like Paul Robeson and MLK is the honor of a lifetime,” said Philly DSA endorsed candidate for PA-03 Rep. Chris Rabb.

PA-03 is entering a rare open primary for the first time in 35 years and is one of the most reliably Democratic districts in the country. With a long history of progressive politics and a large working class electorate, the district presents a pivotal opportunity for candidates advancing the values of democratic socialism, which Rep. Rabb aims to build upon. 

Philly DSA endorses candidates through a member-driven democratic process. Prospective candidates participate in public endorsement meetings led by the chapter’s electoral organizers, where they present their campaigns and answer questions from members. Open to members and the public, these meetings stand in contrast to the backroom decision-making associated with Philadelphia’s political establishment. Endorsements are ultimately decided by a vote of the membership at a chapterwide general meeting. Over 300 members attended the meeting where the chapter deliberated Rabb’s endorsement.   

About Chris Rabb: Rep. Rabb is a five-term state representative in the largest full-time state legislature in the US. He proudly represents a majority Black, mixed income legislative district of nearly 70,000 people across four neighborhoods in Northwest Philadelphia. Chris is a democratic socialist from a long line of freedom fighters. When he’s elected, we’re confident Chris will be a critical voice in Washington. He’ll fight for all of us across the Commonwealth, ground his office in the values of democratic socialism, and work with our chapter to wield real political power and grow DSA. 

About Philly DSA: Philadelphia Socialists of America is the local chapter of the Democratic Socialists of America—the largest socialist organization in the US with over 98,000 members. Philly DSA is run by its 2,000 dues-paying members working to bring democratic socialism to Philadelphia.