Carol Obando-Derstine, a community leader, engineer, and lifelong advocate for working families, launched her campaign Thursday for Congress to represent Pennsylvania’s 7th District.

“I’m running for Congress because too many families in our district are being squeezed by a system that puts billionaires and special interests first,” said Obando-Derstine. “As a mom, I refuse to stand by while politicians make life harder for the next generation. I know the struggles our families are facing because I’ve lived them and I know the strength of this community because I’ve worked hand in hand with the people building its future. This campaign is about fighting back, standing up for our values, and making sure every family in our district has the opportunity to thrive.”

Obando-Derstine immigrated to the United States from Colombia at age 3 and worked multiple jobs through high school to help support her family. The daughter of union workers, she built a career rooted in service: working with children and families through Head Start, running a local food pantry and after-school program, and leading SkillsUSA Council and the Children’s Coalition of the Lehigh Valley.

She later served as regional manager for Sen. Bob Casey, representing Lehigh, Northampton, and Carbon counties, and as a member of Gov. Wolf’s Advisory Commission on Latino Affairs.

For the past nine years, she has worked at PPL Electric Utilities to deliver real impact — helping families lower their energy bills, supporting local nonprofits, and advancing renewable energy to strengthen our community and its future.

She also remained active in the community, volunteering with the Greater Lehigh Valley Chamber of Commerce and teaching at Northampton Community College.

Pennsylvania’s 7th District is one of the most competitive battlegrounds in the country and will be critical in determining control of the U.S. House.

To learn more about Carol and join the campaign, visit www.CarolForPA.com.