Madison, WI — On the main stage at the Wisconsin Democratic Convention, congressional candidate Peter Burgelis delivered a powerful three-minute speech that highlighted a record of results, accountability, and winning tough elections, demonstrating why he is uniquely positioned to defeat Congressman Bryan Steil and help Democrats reclaim the U.S. House of Representatives.
Drawing on his personal story as the son and grandson of immigrants who fled war and fought for every opportunity, Burgelis connected his life experience to a record of delivering results for working families in elected office.
“The most important thing I’ve learned is to listen to constituents, make their priorities my priorities, and then deliver results,” Burgelis told delegates.
Unlike candidates whose experience is limited to advocacy or campaigning, Burgelis pointed to a proven record of results as an elected official. He highlighted his success prioritizing public safety, investing in local roads, and strengthening government accountability, including passing ordinances that prohibit law enforcement officers from concealing their identities from the public.
Burgelis also spoke directly to the economic concerns he hears from voters across Southeast Wisconsin.
“Residents are scared and frustrated that everything is less affordable,” Burgelis said. “People want accountability. They want leaders who will fight for them and deliver results.”
Just six weeks after launching his campaign, Burgelis has already emerged as a candidate focused on the central question facing Democrats in Wisconsin’s First Congressional District: who can beat Bryan Steil.
“The reality is that this race is too important to let slip through our fingers,” Burgelis said. “Wisconsin’s First District is one of the most competitive Republican-held seats in the country. If Democrats flip this seat, we’ll flip Congress and bring back checks and balances, and hold the Trump administration accountable.”
Burgelis reminded delegates that he has won difficult races before. In his first election, he defeated a 22-year incumbent by 28 points, a victory achieved through grassroots organizing, voter outreach, and a message focused on results.
“Peter’s remarks stood out because they weren’t promises, they were about accomplishments,” said campaign spokesperson Ben Garrigus. “In just three minutes, delegates heard from a tested elected who has delivered real results, won difficult elections, and understands what it takes to build a coalition capable of defeating Bryan Steil.”
As the Democratic primary continues, Burgelis is traveling throughout Southeast Wisconsin meeting voters, listening to their concerns, and building a grassroots campaign focused on affordability, accountability, protecting democracy, and delivering results for working families.
About Peter Burgelis
Peter Burgelis is a Milwaukee Alderman, former County Supervisor, first-generation American, and candidate for Wisconsin’s First Congressional District. Throughout his public service, Burgelis has focused on public safety, government accountability, infrastructure investment, and improving quality of life for working families.
The Democratic primary election will be held on August 11, 2026.
