Retzke Campaign Surpasses Incumbent in First 2026 Fundraising Period

SANDUSKY, OH – The Committee to Elect Easton Retzke has officially announced that the campaign has out-raised incumbent Representative D.J. Swearingen in total contributions for the year’s first reporting period beginning January 1, 2026. Data verified via the Ohio Secretary of State and TransparencyUSA.org confirms that the Retzke campaign has secured a higher volume of financial support within the 2026 calendar year than the sitting representative for House District 89.

The latest financial disclosures indicate a significant shift in the race’s momentum. While the incumbent entered the cycle with a “war chest” built during earlier 2025 reporting periods, the Retzke campaign’s 2026 filings demonstrate a surge in active donor engagement, characterized by individual contributions from within the local community. This trend suggests that while institutional funding remains a factor for the incumbent, the current year’s localized support has shifted toward the Retzke campaign.

“These numbers show exactly where the energy is right now,” said Easton Retzke. “This campaign isn’t being fueled by insiders or massive corporate checks; it is being built by people right here in our district who are stepping up to invest in the future of our community. The establishment may have a war chest from earlier 2025 reporting periods, but we have the momentum of the people today.”

The Committee to Elect Easton Retzke will utilize this latest influx of support to expand voter outreach and bolster grassroots operations as the campaign enters its next phase. This fundraising milestone underscores a growing appetite for community-led representation across Erie, Ottawa, and Huron counties. By prioritizing small-dollar donations and community involvement, the campaign aims to remain accountable to the voters rather than outside special interest groups.

Supporters who wish to contribute to the ongoing efforts of the campaign may do so online or via mail. Contributions by check should be made out to The Committee to Elect Easton Retzke and sent to the campaign headquarters at:

The Committee to Elect Easton Retzke

403 E Washington St.

Sandusky, OH 44870

Online contributions can be made through ActBlue, linked through the “Donate” tab above. These funds will directly support local ground operations, advertisements, and community engagement events throughout the remainder of the election cycle.