Pennsylvania’s 3rd Congressional District is shaping up to be a key battleground this election cycle, and a newcomer is gaining traction with an endorsement from a prominent national animal welfare organization. Pablo McConnie-Saad, a first-time candidate running in the Democratic primary on , has secured the backing of Animal Wellness Action (AWA), a group known for its rigorous vetting of candidates based on their commitment to animal protection policies.
The endorsement, announced today, highlights McConnie-Saad’s pledge to champion legislation aimed at strengthening legal protections for animals. AWA president Wayne Pacelle stated the organization is “proud to endorse Pablo McConnie-Saad and looks forward to working with him when he’s elected to Congress to represent more than 700,000 Pennsylvanians.” Pacelle emphasized McConnie-Saad’s commitment not just to support existing animal welfare bills, but to actively lead on the issues, introducing legislation and building consensus for humane policies.
McConnie-Saad, a former Biden Administration official with a doctorate in Public Policy, is running to fill the seat currently held by Congressman Dwight Evans, who is not seeking re-election. His campaign has focused on a grassroots strategy, building a “substantial volunteer operation focused on door-to-door voter engagement” across Philadelphia’s 3rd District, according to AWA. This ground game appears to have resonated with the organization, which also cited McConnie-Saad’s “political viability and campaign strength” as factors in their decision.
The specific legislation McConnie-Saad has pledged to support includes the FIGHT Act, the FDA Modernization Act 3.0, and the Greyhound Protection Act. These bills represent key priorities for AWA, addressing issues ranging from preventing animal fighting to reducing animal testing and protecting greyhounds from exploitation. He has also committed to exceeding the animal welfare record of Congressman Evans, a politician who already boasts a strong record on these issues.
AWA’s endorsement isn’t simply about policy positions. The organization also praised McConnie-Saad’s willingness to challenge corporate interests that often oppose animal welfare reforms. This stance aligns with AWA’s broader mission to protect animals while also advocating for family farmers, local communities, and the public interest. The organization specifically noted that McConnie-Saad’s “personal conduct and daily choices reflect a consistent commitment to animal protection,” reinforcing their confidence in his authenticity.
The timing of this endorsement is significant. With the primary election just months away, AWA’s support provides McConnie-Saad with a valuable boost in visibility and credibility, particularly among the significant number of voters in Philadelphia who prioritize animal welfare. Philadelphia itself is described as having “a raft of animal welfare groups and tens of thousands of voters who care deeply about these issues,” making it a fertile ground for a candidate focused on animal protection.
Animal Wellness Action has a history of endorsing candidates who demonstrate a genuine commitment to animal welfare. In 2022, the organization highlighted Pennsylvania Representatives Susan Wild, Brian Fitzpatrick, and Madeleine Dean as leaders on animal welfare issues within the state’s congressional delegation. The group’s Legislative Scorecard for the 117th Congress was used to assess these representatives’ performance, demonstrating a data-driven approach to their endorsements.
The broader context of AWA’s work reveals a non-partisan organization dedicated to promoting legal standards against animal cruelty and enforcing existing laws. Their involvement in the Pennsylvania 3rd Congressional District race underscores the growing importance of animal welfare as a political issue, and the willingness of organizations like AWA to actively support candidates who share their values. Pacelle emphasized the connection between animal welfare and broader societal well-being, stating that “respect for the humane treatment of animals is a fundamental measure of a society’s decency and moral character” and that “cruelty to animals is frequently linked to broader patterns of antisocial behavior.”
The general election is scheduled for . Following the primary, the field of candidates will be narrowed, and McConnie-Saad will face the winner of the Republican primary, as well as any independent or third-party contenders. AWA’s endorsement provides a strong foundation for his campaign, but the road to Congress will require continued effort and a sustained focus on the issues that matter most to voters in Pennsylvania’s 3rd Congressional District.
Those interested in learning more about AWA’s endorsement can visit here.
