Former Intelligence Officer Launches Congressional Campaign

Ray Bilger, a longtime public servant, enters the race for Pennsylvania's 15th District seat

Published on Feb. 14, 2026

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Ray Bilger, a former intelligence officer and Foreign Service member, has officially launched his campaign for Congress in Pennsylvania's 15th District. Bilger, who recently returned to the state, says he decided to run after a year of activism and travel across Pennsylvania, where he observed persistent neglect in rural areas. Bilger outlined a campaign centered on four key priorities: affordability, healthcare, infrastructure, and opportunity.

Why it matters

Bilger's entry into the race presents a challenge to incumbent Congressman Glenn Thompson, who has held the 15th District seat since 2019. As a political newcomer, Bilger hopes to capitalize on voter dissatisfaction with the status quo and appeal to a broad coalition of Democrats, independents, and moderate Republicans.

The details

Bilger kicked off his campaign at an event in Warren County, drawing a crowd of around 40 people. He acknowledged his lack of elected experience, describing himself as an underdog, but pledged to be a responsive representative who will frequently hold community meetings to listen to constituents. Bilger also addressed key issues like fuel costs and immigration enforcement, promising to uphold the law and protect the interests of rural communities.

  • Bilger officially launched his campaign for Congress on Thursday, February 14, 2026.
  • The campaign event took place at the Jefferson Defrees Family Center in Warren County.

The players

Ray Bilger

A former intelligence officer and Foreign Service member who has entered the race for Pennsylvania's 15th Congressional District, challenging incumbent Congressman Glenn Thompson.

Glenn Thompson

The incumbent Congressman for Pennsylvania's 15th District, who has held the seat since 2019.

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What they’re saying

“I realized I can't just sit on the sidelines. I decided I have to do something.”

— Ray Bilger (timesobserver.com)

“When I get into office, I'm going to keep coming out here. The majority of the time will be for you. I work for you.”

— Ray Bilger (timesobserver.com)

What’s next

Bilger's campaign continues with additional stops across the region, including visits to neighboring counties in the coming days. He is working through a busy schedule but plans to return to Warren County soon.

The takeaway

Bilger's entry into the race for Pennsylvania's 15th Congressional District presents a challenge to the incumbent, Congressman Glenn Thompson. As a political newcomer, Bilger hopes to appeal to a broad coalition of voters by focusing on key issues like affordability, healthcare, infrastructure, and opportunity, and by pledging to be a responsive representative who will frequently engage with constituents in the district's rural communities.