Pennsylvania's 11th congressional district is in the northeastern part of the state and includes Scranton, Wilkes-Barre, Hazleton and most of the Poconos. Republican Lou Barletta has represented the district since 2011, the first Republican in almost 30 years. Republicans tend not to fare well in the district because of its strong base of teachers and the need for infrastructure and public works projects.It was once considered a very safe Democratic seat, but has become more competitive in recent years.