Atlas Strategies Retained by James Hayes for Congress, Building on Strong 2024 Performance in PA-12
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE | March 24, 2026
PITTSBURGH, PA — Atlas Strategies, a Pittsburgh-based political consulting firm specializing in customized campaign strategy and voter engagement, today announced it has been retained by James Hayes in his campaign for Congress in Pennsylvania’s 12th District.
The engagement comes as Hayes builds on a competitive showing in the 2024 general election against incumbent Summer Lee. In that race, Hayes earned more than 43% of the vote in a district that leans Democratic, demonstrating measurable support and establishing a foundation for future growth.
With continued engagement in the community since the last election cycle and a campaign focused on economic growth, accountability, and practical leadership, Hayes is entering the next phase of his campaign with increased organization and momentum.
Atlas Strategies will lead efforts across campaign strategy, digital communications, media production, and voter outreach – among other services - deploying a targeted, candidate-first approach designed to expand Hayes’ coalition and maximize voter engagement across Allegheny County, the Mon Valley, and surrounding communities.
“James Hayes has already demonstrated that this race is more competitive than many expected,” said Michael Diehl, President of Atlas Strategies. “He built a strong base of support in his first run, and more importantly, he hasn’t stopped doing the work since Election Day 2024. With the right strategy, disciplined execution, and continued community engagement, we believe this campaign has a real path forward.”
Pennsylvania’s 12th Congressional District, which includes Pittsburgh and much of Allegheny County, has historically leaned Democratic, but Hayes’ prior performance underscores an opportunity to build on that foundation through strategic voter outreach and message refinement.
“Last cycle was about introducing James Hayes to voters and earning their trust,” said Diehl. “Since then, he has continued to show up, listen, and engage with communities across the district. Atlas Strategies understands how to take that foundation and turn it into a winning campaign.”
Atlas Strategies was selected for its flexible, candidate-first model - offering both full-service campaign management and à la carte solutions that allow campaigns to scale strategically based on real-world needs rather than assumptions.
Initial priorities for the campaign will include strengthening digital infrastructure, refining targeted messaging, expanding voter contact operations, and increasing visibility across key regions of the district.
While the district presents challenges, the Hayes campaign is approaching the race with a clear-eyed understanding of the landscape - focused on building momentum, expanding support, and executing a disciplined strategy designed to compete effectively.
“With the right approach, campaigns like this are won by doing the fundamentals well -- every day, over time,” added Mr. Diehl. “That’s exactly what Atlas Strategies intends to do.”
About Atlas Strategies
Atlas Strategies is a Pittsburgh-based political consulting firm that works with candidates to build campaigns around their unique strengths, message, and district dynamics. Offering both full-service packages and à la carte solutions, Atlas Strategies specializes in campaign strategy, communications, digital engagement, media production, and voter outreach - delivering practical, scalable campaigns designed to win.
About James Hayes for Congress
James Hayes is a candidate for Congress in Pennsylvania’s 12th District, focused on delivering accountable leadership, economic growth, and results for working families across Western Pennsylvania. Learn more about James and his campaign at James Hayes for Congress.
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