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FIRST ON FOX – Democrats campaigning in Pennsylvania accidentally posted online a video that offers a behind-the-scenes look at their 2026 midterm strategy and how they’re preparing to appear authentic and win over voters who feel ‘left behind.’
A previously unreported clip viewed by Fox News Digital shows Democratic Pennsylvania candidate Bob Brooks in an interview with Biden-era Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg — who doesn’t even remember what state he was campaigning for. The two received coaching from off-screen staff, urging them to stay on message.
“Think about your audience,” asked the employee. “Why is this race so important? We need to win the House [of Representatives] – all that. To win over people who feel left behind by the group, browse the region; all that I think is really powerful, it shows people working, accessibility. “
OBAMA’S STAFF TALK DEMOCRATS TO STOP TALK LIKE ‘OUT OF STORY,’ READ ‘NORMAL PEOPLE’S LANGUAGE’
Former Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, left, pictured with Pennsylvania Democratic House candidate Bob Brooks, right (Bench)
A rare behind-the-scenes look at the campaign, filmed by the Democratic Alliance’s campaign arm, The Bench, highlights the efforts the party is taking to emphasize accessibility, appeal to everyday voters and see themselves as naturally as possible after losing their bases in the 2024 election.
“We’re going to have a normal conversation with three cameras pointing at you,” the employee joked.
“Everybody’s acting normal,” laughs Buttigieg.
“—And remind me of the district number we are in?” asked the employee before the conversation started.
The employee also gave Buttigieg and Brooks direction about a pair of beer cans placed as “props.”
Brooks, who faces a tough race next week, has attracted the support of many figures in the Democratic Party, receiving an endorsement from Buttigieg, Sen. Bernie Sanders, D-Vt., and Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro.
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Sen. Bernie Sanders, Vt. and Congressional candidate Bob Brooks pose for a photo together. (Bob Brooks of Congress)
His background as a firefighter also received support from the Bench, a campaign arm that serves as an extension of the Democratic National Committee (DNC).
The party describes its ideal candidates as “community-focused, values-driven, and ready to connect with voters across party lines.” The bench also supports Texas Senate candidate James Talarico, Michigan Senate candidate Mallory McMorrow and Iowa House candidate Sarah Trone Garriott.
Brooks faces a low 4th grade for a chance to unseat Rep. Ryan Mackenzie, R-Pa.
Pennsylvania’s seventh state is among the most competitive in the country. The nonpartisan Cook Political Report ranks the race as a “toss-up” — one of 18 seats up for grabs this year.
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Selectman Ryan Mackenzie speaks during the event. (Andrew Harnik/Getty Images)
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Despite their training, the off-screen staff told Brooks they would try to avoid directing the interview too much.
“Bob, feel free to ask Pete a question: why this race, why here in the Lehigh Valley and we’ll step in if needed to direct a little but we’ll be idle,” the employee said.
