Philadelphia congressional candidates crisscrossed the city in a last-minute push for votes

Key Points:

• The Democratic primary for Pennsylvania’s 3rd Congressional District features three main candidates: State Rep. Chris Rabb, State Sen. Sharif Street, and physician Ala Stanford, each representing different political approaches and constituencies within Philadelphia.
• Sharif Street, backed by the Democratic establishment and influential local figures, focuses on grassroots and in-person campaigning, particularly targeting Black and working-class voters, supported by significant ground operations funded by building trades unions.
• Ala Stanford, known for her healthcare work in Black communities, received substantial financial backing from a Washington-based super PAC, 314 Action Fund, but faced controversy and declining poll numbers late in the campaign; she continues active voter outreach and retains some key endorsements.
• Chris Rabb, a progressive critical of the Democratic Party establishment, gained momentum with strong fundraising and high-profile endorsements, including from Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and The Inquirer’s Editorial Board, focusing on youth turnout and progressive voters with significant TV ad support.
• The race remains highly competitive and uncertain, with no independent polls available and the outcome likely hinging on voter turnout, particularly among diverse demographic groups in Philadelphia’s heavily Democratic district.