Congressman Chris Deluzio (D-17) kicked off his re-election campaign on Tuesday night, announcing that his team raised more than $1.5 million thus far in the cycle.

Official numbers are not due to the FEC until January 31, but candidates often release figures early if they feel it would be beneficial.

Deluzio said that between his campaign and Victory Fund that there is a war chest of $1 million entering the new year. There were more than 5,400 unique donors that gave to Deluzio and that figure does not include corporate PAC money, as the Congressman continues to reject these interests.

The freshman congressman laid out his case for a second term at a rally hosted at the International Union of Painters and Allied Trades (IUPAT) District Council 57’s union hall.

“Growing up here, serving in the Navy, and organizing for a union, I learned the power of solidarity: Leave no one behind,” said Deluzio. “It doesn’t matter where you’re from, who you love, how you pray, what you look like. We are stronger together.

“I’m ready to keep holding the line for our freedom, to protect this democracy of ours, and for our shared prosperity: and I can’t do it alone. I’m so proud to have the support of the men and women of labor yet again this election – you do not win in Western Pennsylvania without workers with you.”

The Iraq War veteran and voting rights lawyer also explained why he does not wish to accept corporate PAC money.

“I’m also proud that corporate jagoffs like the Kochs, Big Pharma, and powerful railroads want me gone,” he said. “They want some yes man to carry their water. Well, you got the wrong guy.

“Together we can build a government that serves all of us, not just the rich and powerful. Together we can build a future where the union way of life is secure, where our freedom is protected, and where folks can grow up, work, build families, and retire with dignity.

“We have a lot to do, and I am not naive about the fights ahead. But I know this: America is worth fighting for.”

Deluzio defeated Republican Jeremy Shaffer in the 2022 general election, 53-47.

No other Democrat has stepped forward to pose a primary challenge to Deluzio. State Rep. Rob Mercuri (R-Allegheny) and Jesse Vodvarka have announced their candidacies on the GOP side.

updated to indicate $1.5M raised was during the cycle, not Q4