(WHTM) – Congressman Chris Deluzio (D) says he’s “gotten lots of encouragement” to run for U.S. Senate amid questions surrounding the viability of Senator John Fetterman (D) in a potential reelection bid.
Deluzio, who represents suburban Pittsburgh, called Fetterman a “distraction” and “disappointment” during an interview with Dennis Owens on This Week in Pennsylvania.
Fetterman has faced scrutiny in recent months after he appeared virtually at a Republican midterm convention and a report indicated he refused to meet with several constituents. An August poll from the New York Times, Philadelphia Inquirer and Siena University found Fetterman had a 63% unfavorable rating among Democrats.
“I think John Fetterman has lost the confidence of lots of Pennsylvanians, not just Democrats,” said Deluzio.
Several Pennsylvania Democrats have positioned themselves as potential candidates for Fetterman’s seat in 2028. Congressman Brendan Boyle has teased a potential run, saying he’ll “really look” at the race next year and told voters to “stay tuned.”
Fetterman’s 2022 primary opponents, former U.S. Rep. Conor Lamb and State Rep. Malcolm Kenyatta, have also been constant critics of Fetterman in recent months.
When pressed Friday on a potential 2028 Senate campaign, Deluzio said “We shall see.”
An Iraq War veteran and voting rights attorney, Deluzio is currently running for his third term in Congress against Beaver County Sheriff Tony Guy (R). Deluzio says he’s focused on helping the four Democratic candidates, as well as Governor Josh Shapiro (D) in their races.
Deluzio has been crisscrossing the state supporting the four Democratic Party challengers (Bob Brooks, Bob Harvie, Janelle Stelson, and Paige Cognetti) running in competitive House races against incumbent Republican congressmen.
Deluzio says he believes Congressman Scott Perry (R) is “particularly vulnerable” in his race against Stelson in Pennsylvania’s 10th District, which includes the City of Harrisburg.
Every week, “This Week in Pennsylvania” gives a comprehensive look at the week’s biggest news events in Pennsylvania, provided by the abc27 News team, along with the latest updates on local stories.
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