While Republicans now outnumber Democrats in Bucks County, it remains a competitive political environment. A recent poll showed that incumbent U.S. Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick (R-Bucks) has a 14-point lead over Democratic challenger Ashley Ehasz, at 54 to 40 percent. However, Ehasz released another poll showing only a 5-point lead for the incumbent.
DVJournal asked Fitzpatrick, who was first elected in 2016, why he wanted to serve another term in Congress.
“Serving the community where I was born and raised has been the greatest honor of my life and I am proud of all that we achieved together as ‘One Community.’ Earning the distinction of being the No. 1 most bipartisan member of Congress is not just a title—it’s a testament to my belief that true progress comes from unity and shared purpose, not partisan division.
“My experience as an FBI Special Agent taught me the value of teamwork in achieving what truly matters: results. This approach has been the bedrock of my service in Congress, where I’ve forged crucial partnerships with leaders from both parties to drive transformative change for our PA-1 community.”
Ehasz, who is making a second run against Fitzpatrick, did not respond to multiple requests for comments for this article. However, her campaign appears to be centered on abortion rights.
Ashley Ehasz
“Many Democratic races this year, up and down the ballot, are focusing nearly exclusively on that particular issue, abortion. And Ehasz’ is no exception,” said Christopher Nicholas, a longtime Republican advisor with Eagle Consulting Group. “The issue clearly motivates the Democratic base, but it’s unclear as of yet how it impacts undecided voters. Recent surveys here have shown that abortion is the top issue for just 5 percent of voters, and it’s unclear from that which particular side of the issue those people fall on.”
About abortion, Fitzpatrick said, “I have always stood, and will continue to stand, firmly in support of Pennsylvania’s current law, which allows abortion to be legal through the first 24 weeks of pregnancy. My commitment to protecting women’s health remains unwavering, including safeguarding access to contraception and IVF. My position has been consistent and clear, including during last [election cycle] debate: I fully support Pennsylvania’s abortion law.”
Fitzpatrick serves on the Ways and Means Committee and House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence. In addition, he co-chairs the bipartisan Problem Solvers Caucus, Congressional Ukraine Caucus, and Bipartisan Mental Health and Substance Use Disorder Task Force. He also serves on the NATO Parliamentary Assembly.
“Whether fighting to secure millions of dollars in funding for vital community initiatives, leading the historic reauthorization of the Violence Against Women Act, or utilizing my leadership as the National Intelligence Chairman to secure our borders and stand firm against authoritarian regimes, every action I take—locally, nationally, and internationally—is driven by a singular focus: fighting for you… for your safety, for a thriving PA-1 economy, and for the prosperity, security, and strength that will uplift our community now and for generations to come,” Fitzpatrick said.
He added, “We stand at a pivotal moment in our history, and the path forward demands sound bipartisan leadership and a particular understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities facing our community. I have proven we can turn thoughtful dialogue into meaningful action and achieve results for our hardworking families, business owners, veterans, senior citizens, and every individual in our PA-1 community.
“But I am not content with past achievements alone. My vision is forward-looking—building on what we’ve accomplished to tackle the challenges ahead with the same unwavering dedication, conviction, and integrity that have always defined my service,” Fitzpatrick said.
Fitzpatrick said, “Championing our PA-1 community is my top priority. By forging strong, bipartisan relationships, I have been able to secure over $53 million in Community Project Funding for over 30 projects across our district. From modernizing infrastructure to expanding health care services and senior care, these transformative projects will deliver life-changing improvements to our community.
“As co-chair of the Bipartisan Problem Solvers Caucus, I helped lead the passage of the historic Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which brought $290 million to our district. These critical infrastructure projects include 27 bridge reconstructions, 19 intersection upgrades, 8 roadway construction projects, and major flooding and drainage improvements. These projects have not only strengthened our infrastructure but also created thousands of jobs, boosting our local economy and enhancing the safety of our community,” he added.
“Beyond securing critical community funding, this Congress marked two other monumental victories. My bipartisan, bicameral Saracini Enhanced Aviation Safety Act was signed into law as part of the landmark FAA Reauthorization Act of 2024, ensuring our skies are safe and fortifying our defenses against potential terror attacks. Additionally, my work with Congressman Jared Golden (D-Maine) on the bipartisanDefending Borders, Defending Democracies Ac thelped shape the House National Security Funding Package to protect our borders and combat authoritarian regimes abroad, like Russia and China.
“As I look ahead, my focus remains clear: continuing to fight for the issues that matter most to PA-1. I look forward to fighting for more federal investment in local initiatives and infrastructure, support for our small businesses, and policies that bolster our economy, expand access to healthcare, strengthen our national security, restore faith in our elections, and ensure every voice in our community is heard.”
DVJournal asked about rampant antisemitism on campuses and whether money from countries like Qatar should be going to colleges and universities.
“I unequivocally condemn antisemitism and all manifestations of hatred, whether on college campuses or anywhere within our country and the world. Transparency and accountability are paramount when addressing the influence of foreign funds on any U.S. institution, from higher education to our critical infrastructure or the core of our democracy. That’s why I introduced the Stop Foreign Funds in Elections Act. This legislation will prevent the influence of foreign adversaries in our elections by blocking foreign-funded political ads and prohibiting foreign donations to campaigns.
“As co-chair of the Bipartisan Task Force for Combating Antisemitism, I will continue to be relentless in fighting back against antisemitism on every front and safeguarding the well-being of our Jewish community, and I am eager to continue working with my colleagues to develop bipartisan solutions to counter malign foreign influence in all our institutions,” Fitzpatrick said.
Fitzpatrick is a former FBI special agent, a CPA, and a certified emergency medical technician (EMT). A West Point graduate, Ehasz was an Apache helicopter pilot. She served overseas in Kuwait, Iraq, and South Korea. She works as a government and public services sector consultant.
Bucks County Republican Party Chair Pat Poprik said, “Brian does have the right positions for this county.”
Fitzpatrick has been ranked the most bipartisan member of Congress, which makes him a good match for the purple county, she noted. The district, PA-1, also includes a small section of Montgomery County.
“In the general, where it matters, he gets the independent vote. He gets tons of Democrat votes. That’s being representative, and that’s doing his job,” said Poprik.
Please follow DVJournal on social media: X@DVJournal or Facebook.com/DelawareValleyJournal
