Jennifer Brothers
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Jennifer Brothers (Democratic Party) is running for election to the U.S. House to represent Pennsylvania's 9th Congressional District. She declared candidacy for the 2026 election.[source]
Brothers completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2025. Click here to read the survey answers.
Biography
Jennifer Brothers was born in Portsmouth, Ohio. She earned a bachelor's degree from East Tennessee State University in 2015. Her career experience includes working in private investigation, correctional law enforcement, higher education, banking, and entrepreneurship.[1]
Elections
2026
See also: Pennsylvania's 9th Congressional District election, 2026
Note: At this time, Ballotpedia is combining all declared candidates for this election into one list under a general election heading. As primary election dates are published, this information will be updated to separate general election candidates from primary candidates as appropriate.
General election
The general election will occur on November 3, 2026.
Endorsements
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2026
Ballotpedia survey responses
See also: Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection
Jennifer Brothers completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2025. The survey questions appear in bold and are followed by Brothers' responses. Candidates are asked three required questions for this survey, but they may answer additional optional questions as well.
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With a diverse background spanning private investigation, correctional law enforcement, higher education administration, banking, and entrepreneurship, I bring a broad and practical understanding of the systems that shape our lives. I hold degrees in Political Science and Criminal Justice, and I’ve consistently applied my education to real-world challenges.
Beyond my professional experience, I am a mother, a neighbor, a proud member of the LGBTQIA+ community, as well as a survivor of sexual violence. These personal experiences have deepened my commitment to justice and strengthened my voice as an advocate.
I am driven by a lifelong dedication to equity, accountability, and community. I will use my lived experience, academic training, and professional expertise to help bring justice, opportunity, and meaningful change to the people of Pennsylvania. - I’m not a career politician. I’m a mother, a neighbor, and someone who’s lived what many Pennsylvanians are going through. I’ll bring compassion, transparency, and real-world solutions, always putting people before politics.
- From economic inequality to healthcare access, I believe policy should open doors, not close them. I’ll fight for policies that create real opportunity for working families, students, small business owners, and marginalized communities across Pennsylvania. No family should ever be forced to go without life-sustaining essentials like clean running water or food in their homes as many Americans face today.
- I’ve worked in law enforcement, investigated crime, and studied the system. As a survivor and advocate, I know both the flaws and the potential of our justice system. I’m committed to reform that protects victims, holds institutions accountable, and builds safer communities for all not just those in the top 1%.
I’m particularly passionate about substantive public policy that focuses on reducing crime, improving public health, and addressing economic inequality. At the same time, I believe it’s essential to support regulatory policies that ensure strong enforcement mechanisms for established laws, such as the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA).
I deeply admire both Justice Sandra Day O’Connor and Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, two trailblazing women who reshaped the American legal and political landscape in powerful ways.
Sandra Day O’Connor, as the first woman appointed to the U.S. Supreme Court, demonstrated the importance of balance, independence, and thoughtful decision-making. Her commitment to fairness and her ability to navigate complex legal and political issues with integrity and pragmatism are qualities I strive to emulate.
Ruth Bader Ginsburg’s unwavering dedication to justice, gender equality, and civil rights has had a profound influence on my own path. She combined fierce advocacy with a deep respect for the law, and never wavered in her belief that government should work for all people, not just the powerful. Her legacy reminds us that quiet strength and persistent effort can bring about lasting change.
Both women approached leadership with courage, intellect, and purpose and fought tirelessly to uphold the Constitution. Their work inspires me to lead with conviction, uphold integrity in every decision, and remain focused on expanding opportunity and justice for everyone. To truly understand my political philosophy, I would recommend Theodore Roosevelt's speech "Citizenship in a Republic." In this address, Roosevelt outlines the importance of personal responsibility, the value of action, and the role of leadership in shaping a nation. His ideas resonate deeply with my belief in integrity, courage, and service to others.
One key quote from Roosevelt that encapsulates my approach is, "The average cannot be kept high unless the standard of the leaders is very much higher." This speaks to the essence of leadership. As elected officials, we must hold ourselves to the highest standards, setting an example for those we serve. The responsibility of leadership isn’t just to create policies, it’s to inspire and uplift others through our actions, our integrity, and our commitment to justice. While we are all human and have experiences in our lives that have been negative, we must use those experiences to further the good of the people.
Roosevelt also reminds us that it's not the critics who matter, but those who take risks and act in the arena, even in the face of failure. His philosophy aligns with my own belief that leadership must be about doing what is right, even when it’s difficult. It’s about striving for the greater good, not personal gain, and ensuring that our actions reflect the values of justice, equity, and accountability. Integrity is the cornerstone of public service. An elected official must be honest, transparent, and consistent in their values, even when it's hard. Alongside integrity, accountability, empathy, courage, and a commitment to equity are essential. Public office is a position of trust, and that trust must be earned through actions that prioritize people over politics, truth over convenience, and justice over personal gain. A true leader listens, learns, and leads with both compassion and conviction.
I believe the qualities that would make me a successful officeholder are my commitment to integrity, my ability to listen, and my strong work ethic. I am deeply dedicated to serving others, which is reflected in both my professional and personal life. My experiences as a mother, entrepreneur, and advocate for justice have taught me the importance of hard work, perseverance, and staying true to one’s values, even in difficult circumstances.
I also bring a strong sense of empathy and the ability to listen carefully to people’s concerns. Throughout my career, I have learned how to connect with diverse communities, understand their needs, and advocate effectively on their behalf. This ability to engage with people, whether through my work in law enforcement, education, or banking, will allow me to make informed, compassionate decisions that truly serve the public interest.
Additionally, my experience in investigative work and commitment to holding systems accountable will guide my approach to governance. I am determined to prioritize transparency, fairness, and accountability in all aspects of my role. I will be a representative who not only listens but also acts, with a focus on creating meaningful change for all Americans. The core responsibilities of someone elected to this office begin with compassion and a genuine commitment to the people and communities they serve. This includes actively listening to voters, understanding their needs, and ensuring their voices are reflected in policy decisions. It also requires a deep knowledge of the position, not only in terms of policy but in how those policies affect daily life. Above all, it demands consistent dedication, integrity, transparency, and a clear focus on serving the public good. Public service is a lifestyle, not just "some job" you put on your resume.
The legacy I hope to leave is one of service, integrity, and meaningful change. I want to be remembered as someone who listened to the people, fought for their needs, and worked tirelessly to improve their lives. My goal is to leave behind a legacy where policies reflect fairness, opportunity, and justice for all, especially those who have been marginalized or overlooked.
I want to create a future where Americans, regardless of their background or circumstances, have access to the resources they need to succeed, whether that’s quality education, affordable healthcare, or clean water in their homes. I believe that lasting change starts with creating systems that empower individuals and communities to thrive, and that’s the kind of legacy I want to leave behind.
Above all, I want to be remembered as someone who upheld the values of honesty, transparency, and accountability, qualities that I believe are essential for building a government that truly works for the people. There have been many historical events in my lifetime that left a lasting impact, but the first one I clearly remember was the rise of President Bill Clinton. I was about five years old when he took office, around eleven when he was impeached, and about fourteen when his final term concluded. Even at a young age, I remember the intense national focus on his presidency and the events surrounding the impeachment. It was one of the first times I became aware of how government and leadership could shape public discourse and influence the direction of the country. His public trial also introduced me to the constitutional responsibilities of the U.S. House of Representatives, particularly its role in maintaining checks and balances.
During President Clinton’s time in office, I recall hearing about significant economic growth and watching news coverage of major policy debates. I remember reports on the North American Free Trade Agreement and the Violent Crime Control and Law Enforcement Act, as well as his early efforts to reform national health care. These moments sparked my early awareness of public policy and how it affects everyday people. They helped lay the foundation for my continued interest in governance, advocacy, and public service.
I grew up on a farm, so work was simply a part of daily life from a very young age. I didn’t think of it as a job in the traditional sense; it was just what you were supposed to do. My first paid job outside of farm work was as a subcontractor painting the interiors of small businesses in my community, which made me something of a young entrepreneur. At the same time, I was actively volunteering in several community service roles, which helped shape my sense of responsibility and commitment to helping others.
My first formal hourly job was at a mini-golf course in a tourist town, and about a month later I also started working at a small restaurant nearby. I held both positions simultaneously and was eventually promoted at each. Because both were small businesses, the owners depended heavily on me for daily operations, and I quickly stepped into management roles. These experiences taught me the value of reliability, adaptability, and earning trust through hard work.
Eventually, those lessons carried over into my work in banking and beyond, setting the foundation for a career built on service, leadership, and accountability. William Faulkner’s As I Lay Dying is my favorite book because it captures the complexity of human experience in a raw, unfiltered way. The story isn’t polished or easy. Neither is Life. It’s messy, emotional, and deeply layered. Each character in the novel carries their pain, secrets, and motivations, and Faulkner doesn’t shy away from showing how trauma, duty, and survival shape people.
That resonates with me. I’ve lived through moments that shattered the version of life I thought I’d have, and like the Bundren family, I had to find a way to keep moving forward, even when it didn’t make sense to others. The shifting perspectives in the book remind me that everyone’s experience is valid and that understanding requires listening and not just to the words, but to what’s behind them. This is such a simple human experience but not everyone can understand why Darl's brother "is a fish" the first time they read the book.
As I Lay Dying also speaks to resilience, both individual and familial, and the quiet, often invisible labor that people, especially women, carry in the face of adversity. It’s a reminder that strength doesn’t always look like heroism; sometimes it looks like simply enduring. If I could be any superhero, I’d choose Batman. He’s not born with superhuman abilities, but he uses his intellect, determination, and resources to fight for justice. What I admire most about Batman is his unwavering commitment to protecting others, despite facing deep personal pain and struggles. His journey shows that even when life feels out of our control, we can choose to rise above and make a difference.
Of course, being a vigilante isn’t always acceptable, and Batman often faces criticism for taking matters into his own hands. But what makes him stand out is his ability to act on his moral compass, even when the world around him doesn’t always understand. Like Batman, I believe that standing up for what’s right, even when it’s not the popular thing to do, is vital. We may not always have the backing of others, but sometimes it’s our integrity and drive for justice that can push us to make the most significant changes.
While we may not always have a cape or a Batmobile, we all have the potential to be heroes in our own communities by making choices that reflect justice and compassion. Tracy Chapman's Give Me One Reason
While I could speak about the time I didn’t have running water in my home due to a broken well, I would be remiss if I didn’t address something that has truly shaped who I am: my experience with sexual violence. I faced one of the ultimate atrocities that anyone can endure, and that moment of attack forever altered my life in ways I could never have imagined. Not only did I lose my bodily autonomy, not only did I have to confront the reality of a world where women are not always protected, but I also had to delay my education, endure the emotional toll of trauma, and navigate a life that became increasingly difficult and expensive. I became a mother in a country that does not always respect women's medical decisions in the same way it respects men's.
While my peers were dating, going to bars, and experiencing the typical joys of early adulthood, I was juggling multiple jobs to ensure my daughter had every advantage I could give her. Becoming a mother amidst that pain transformed my priorities completely.
The impact of that trauma shifted everything in my life. From that point on, my focus became ensuring that my daughter would never have to face such horrors. My education took longer, my work became more challenging, and every day I had to push harder to provide for my family. But this hardship also sparked a fierce determination within me to fight for the protection of others who have experienced similar pain.
Since then, I have taken every opportunity to advocate for those who have endured trauma, using my own experience to help others find strength and begin their own healing journey. This experience has made me who I am today, a passionate advocate for justice, equity, and the rights of survivors. The U.S. House of Representatives operates within the larger system of checks and balances, where integrity plays a crucial role. Due to its significant power over spending and its direct accountability to the public, the House must uphold a higher standard of integrity than other branches of government. It is responsible for acting transparently, avoiding corruption, and ensuring that policies reflect the will and best interests of the people while still upholding the US Constitution. Trust in government begins with the House, and it must lead by example when it comes to ethics and accountability.
As stated, one of the most defining features of the House is its direct accountability to the people. Every two years, all 435 members face re-election, ensuring we stay in touch with the concerns and needs of our constituents. This regular cycle is intended to keep the Representatives we elect highly responsive to the public's priorities and we should hold them accountable.
The House also reflects a broad range of voices, given its large and diverse membership. The House represents a wide variety of geographic, demographic, and ideological perspectives, ensuring that different regions and communities are heard in the debate over important issues While prior experience in government or politics can certainly be valuable, it’s just as important to consider the tangible impact and value a representative brings to the table. Experience in public office can help navigate the complexities of governance, but so can the education and skills I bring with me. Experience should not be the sole measure of someone’s ability to serve the people; character, integrity, and a genuine willingness to serve are far more important. Experience is meaningful only when it reflects a true commitment to the needs of the people and demonstrates a dedication to making a positive difference.
One of the greatest challenges the United States will face over the next decade is the urgent need to rebuild and unify. We are a deeply divided nation politically, economically, and socially. If we are to move forward, we must find common ground, restore trust in our institutions, and create a shared vision for the future that includes all Americans.
Rebuilding will require reinvesting in our infrastructure, our education system, our healthcare networks, and the social safety nets that protect the most vulnerable. It also means strengthening our democracy by ensuring free and fair elections, protecting voting rights, and demanding accountability and transparency from our leaders.
Unity does not mean we will always agree. It means committing to respectful dialogue, mutual understanding, and the belief that we are stronger together. The decade ahead will test our resilience, but I believe we can rise to meet it with integrity, compassion, and a renewed commitment to the common good. Yes, I believe two years is the right term length for representatives. This relatively short cycle ensures that members of the House stay closely connected to the needs and concerns of their constituents. It holds them accountable and encourages them to remain engaged with the people they represent. Frequent elections also gives the public an opportunity to hold their representatives accountable and make changes if necessary, ensuring that our government remains responsive to the will of the people.
However, I believe that too many current representatives spend an inordinate amount of time focusing on the next election cycle and fundraising, rather than dedicating themselves fully to serving their constituents. This shift in priorities is detrimental to the work of governance. I would like to see, in my lifetime, a major overhaul of the campaign financing process, so that elected officials can focus more on the people and less on the pressure of constant fundraising and campaigning.
I believe term limits are essential to a healthy democracy. They prevent the concentration of power, reduce the risk of complacency and corruption, and encourage fresh perspectives in government. Public service should be about service and not a lifetime career insulated from accountability.
In addition to term limits, I also support implementing age limits for governing officials. Leadership requires not only experience but also the energy, awareness, and adaptability needed to respond to today’s rapidly evolving challenges. As with any demanding role, there comes a time when stepping aside allows for new voices and ideas to emerge. Even George Washington stated, "Here, perhaps I ought to stop" in his farewell address passing along his knowledge and position to future leaders.
Together, term and age limits help ensure that our government remains responsive, representative, and rooted in the best interests of the people it serves. When thinking about a representative to model myself after, I draw inspiration from a range of individuals across both parties who embody integrity, accountability, and a deep commitment to serving the people. From the Democratic side, I look to Barbara Jordan and John Lewis, both of whom were unwavering advocates for justice, human rights, and transparency in government. They never wavered in their dedication to fighting for marginalized communities and upholding the highest ethical standards.
On the Republican side, I find myself aligned with John McCain and Adam Kinzinger, both of whom demonstrated the importance of integrity in leadership and were willing to challenge their own party when necessary. McCain’s focus on bipartisanship and his principled stands on issues like government transparency and ethics were something I deeply respect. Kinzinger’s willingness to speak out in the face of corruption and his advocacy for accountability reflect the kind of leadership I believe is essential in today’s political climate.
Each of these leaders set a standard for integrity, service, and dedication to the public good. I aim to combine their best qualities: principled leadership, courage to stand for what’s right, and a relentless focus on the people’s needs, into my own approach to public service. I have heard many personal stories from my neighbors about their struggles with a lack of essential resources. One story that stands out to me is my own experience of not having running water in my home due to a broken well. During that time, I had to go to a local free well to retrieve water. As I did, I met with hundreds of Pennsylvania families facing similar issues, whether it was broken wells or inadequate water filtration systems in their rural homes.
These stories were deeply impactful to me and gave me a firsthand understanding of the hardships many families face in our state and frankly throughout the nation. This experience is one of the key reasons I decided to run for office. I want to fight for policies that ensure every family has access to clean, reliable water and the other basic resources they need to thrive. The struggles of my neighbors are not isolated; they reflect a larger issue that needs to be addressed in our country and it is one that cannot continue to be ignored.
As a tribute to my daughter, What do you call a bear with no teeth? A Gummy bear. What do you call a worm with no teeth? That's just a worm.
Yes, I believe compromise is a necessary part of effective policymaking, but it must have limits. Democracy depends on collaboration and dialogue, especially in a diverse nation like ours. No single perspective has all the answers, and reaching across differences can often lead to more thoughtful, lasting solutions.
However, compromise should never come at the cost of fundamental rights, justice, or integrity. There are core values such as protecting civil liberties, ensuring equal access to healthcare, defending the rights of marginalized communities, and maintaining transparency in government that should not be negotiated away.
I am committed to working with anyone, regardless of party, who shares a genuine interest in solving problems and improving people’s lives. But I will always draw the line when compromise would mean abandoning the principles and people I am elected to represent. The power to originate revenue bills is a significant responsibility, and if elected, I would approach it with a deep sense of accountability to the people and the Constitution. This power gives the House a direct role in shaping how our government raises and spends money, which directly impacts the lives of the people we serve.
As a representative, I would focus on ensuring that tax policies and revenue decisions are fair, transparent, and designed to benefit working families, small businesses, and marginalized communities. I believe it’s crucial to craft policies that foster economic opportunity while maintaining fiscal responsibility.
I would advocate for a tax system that ensures the wealthiest pay their fair share, while also providing relief to those who are struggling. The goal should be to create a system where the government is funded responsibly, but in a way that addresses the needs of the people and promotes long-term prosperity for all. The U.S. House should use its investigative powers responsibly, transparently, and always in the public’s interest. These powers are a vital part of our system of checks and balances, designed to hold government agencies, public officials, and private entities accountable. Investigations should be fact-based, guided by the law, and focused on uncovering wrongdoing, protecting citizens’ rights, and ensuring that public resources are being used properly.
As someone with a professional background in investigation and a strong track record of combating fraud, I understand how to follow evidence, ask the right questions, and approach oversight work with fairness and integrity. That experience has prepared me to contribute meaningfully to congressional investigations that are grounded in truth and focused on real accountability.
I believe investigative powers should never be used for political theater or personal attacks. Oversight should be focused on strengthening democracy, rooting out corruption, and restoring public trust in government. If elected, I will advocate for investigations that are honest, transparent, and serve the people and not partisan or personal agendas. I’m particularly interested in serving on the House Committee on the Judiciary, the Committee on Oversight and Accountability, the Committee on Energy and Commerce (specifically the Health Subcommittee), and the Committee on Education and the Workforce. Each of these committees aligns closely with my experience and the values I bring to public service.
The Judiciary Committee is a natural fit given my background in criminal justice, law enforcement, and advocacy for survivors of violence. I'm committed to reforming our justice system and ensuring it protects civil rights, promotes fairness, and upholds the rule of law.
The Oversight and Accountability Committee speaks directly to my belief in government transparency and integrity. I believe elected officials must be held to the highest standards, and I will fight for systems that make our government more ethical, honest, and responsive to the people.
Public health is another core priority. Serving on the Energy and Commerce Committee’s Health Subcommittee would allow me to work on expanding access to healthcare, addressing health disparities, and strengthening mental health and preventive care programs.
Lastly, as someone with experience in higher education administration and a commitment to economic mobility, I see the Education and the Workforce Committee as essential to building a stronger, more equitable future. Education, job training, and worker protections are foundational to opportunity and economic justice. Elected officials have a responsibility to uphold the highest ethical standards, especially when it comes to managing public resources. Financial transparency is not optional. Transparency is essential to building and maintaining public trust. Citizens have a right to know how their tax dollars are being spent. That requires systems that promote openness in government budgets, spending, and operations, while also empowering the public to hold leaders accountable. This includes clear and accessible financial reporting, rigorous oversight, and safeguards to detect and prevent corruption or mismanagement.
Accountability must also extend to the personal financial conduct of those in leadership roles. Transparency in this area is critical to prevent conflicts of interest and to ensure that unethical or inappropriate behavior does not compromise public service. Frankly, I believe that trades made while serving in Congress amount to insider trading and should be treated and punished as such. No one should be above the law, especially those elected to uphold it.
Ultimately, accountability is about more than finances. It demands integrity in every decision and action, with leaders consistently putting the public’s interest first. Note: Ballotpedia reserves the right to edit Candidate Connection survey responses. Any edits made by Ballotpedia will be clearly marked with [brackets] for the public. If the candidate disagrees with an edit, he or she may request the full removal of the survey response from Ballotpedia.org. Ballotpedia does not edit or correct typographical errors unless the candidate's campaign requests it.
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- ↑ Information submitted to Ballotpedia through the Candidate Connection survey on May 15, 2025
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