Chris Deluzio (D) is a dedicated public servant, veteran, attorney, and current U.S. Representative for Pennsylvania’s 17th Congressional District. His commitment to defending democracy, protecting workers, and advocating for veterans’ rights defines his political career and makes him a compelling candidate for re-election in 2024.
Deluzio graduated from the Naval Academy before serving as a Navy officer. He was deployed to Iraq during his military career, gaining firsthand experience in national security and veterans’ affairs. After leaving the Navy, Deluzio pursued a law degree from Georgetown University Law Center. His legal career focused heavily on voting rights advocacy, working as a voting rights attorney at the University of Pittsburgh’s Institute for Cyber Law, Policy, and Security, where he helped safeguard democratic processes and combat voter suppression.
Deluzio won his first congressional race in 2022, securing his seat by defeating Republican Jeremy Shaffer. During his tenure, Deluzio has focused on key issues, serving on both the House Armed Services Committee and the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. In Congress, he has become a vocal advocate for veterans, pushing for expanded healthcare services and job training programs for those who have served. Deluzio’s legislative efforts also include improving rail safety, particularly after the devastating East Palestine train derailment .
One of Deluzio’s major achievements has been his strong support for labor unions. He has been a consistent advocate for workers’ rights, viewing unions as essential to protecting employees from corporate exploitation and ensuring fair wages and benefits. Deluzio has frequently emphasized that unions are one of the most powerful tools to fight back against corporate power, earning him significant support from labor groups across Pennsylvania .
Key Issue Stances
- Voting Rights: As a former voting rights attorney, Deluzio has a long history of advocating for the protection of democracy. His focus has been on preventing voter suppression and ensuring that all Americans have access to the ballot box. Deluzio’s expertise in this area has guided his work in Congress, where he continues to push for voting reforms.
- Veterans’ Affairs: With his background as a Navy veteran, Deluzio is deeply committed to advocating for veterans. He has worked to improve healthcare access, support job training programs, and ensure that veterans receive the benefits and services they deserve after their military service.
- Union Advocacy: Deluzio’s strong pro-labor stance is central to his campaign. He believes that unions are essential to ensuring economic justice and fighting corporate greed. His legislative priorities have included supporting collective bargaining and opposing anti-union measures.
Chris Deluzio was born and raised in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. His personal experiences as a veteran and voting rights attorney deeply influence his political views. He has consistently advocated for the working-class people of Pennsylvania, using his platform to champion policies that prioritize everyday citizens over corporate interests.
The race for Pennsylvania’s 17th Congressional District is expected to be highly competitive. Deluzio will face Republican Rob Mercuri in the 2024 election. Both parties have identified the district as a key battleground, with Deluzio being part of the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee’s Frontlines program, which supports vulnerable incumbents. While Republicans are targeting the seat as a potential pick-up, Deluzio’s record on veterans’ issues, voting rights, and labor advocacy gives him a strong platform to appeal to voters .
With a blend of military service, legal expertise, and a clear commitment to democratic values, Chris Deluzio offers a compelling candidacy grounded in real-world experience and a passion for serving his community. His focus on protecting workers, veterans, and democratic institutions positions him well to win re-election and continue advocating for the people of Pennsylvania.
We're counting on grassroots supporters like you to power Chris Deluzio to victory.
I will always stand strong against extreme, Republican politicians who want to criminalize and ban abortion and are obsessed with taking away reproductive rights.
Our freedoms are worth fighting for. It’s time to restore Roe v. Wade and pass the Women’s Health Protection Act.
- Chris Deluzio