PROVIDENCE, R.I. -- Former state representative John J. Loughlin II, who is probably running for Congress in the First District, confirmed this week that his campaign will continue to raise money even as he is serving on active duty for the U.S. Army.

Michael Napolitano, Loughlin's spokesman, said that due to Army regulations, the lieutenant colonel (recently returned from retirement) is not allowed to make political comments or personally raise money for his campaign, but t is "perfectly allowable" for others to do so on his behalf. He said the campaign is "actively raising money" to fund the 2012 race.

In recent weeks, observers have said that Loughlin is barred from raising funds while on active duty, posing a significant challenge as the race begins to heat up.

Incumbent U.S. Rep. David N. Cicilline continues to aggressively raise funds and former state police Superintendent Brendan Doherty has announced he will challenge Cicilline, putting down about $50,000 of his own money to launch his first bid for elected office.

Loughlin, a 52-year-old Tiverton Republican, is expected to serve in Iraq through December, but has made it clear that he intends to run again for the seat. Loughlin lost to then-Providence Mayor Cicilline, a Democrat, in November by 6 percent of the vote.

"It is acceptable for the campaign to host fundraisers; it is not acceptable for John to take part. Just as I can speak for John while he is not able to," Napolitano said this week. "Fund-raising efforts continue to be ongoing while Colonel Loughlin is deployed, and we expect them to kick into high gear when he returns. I have already been approached by dozens of Loughlin supporters eager to help with his campaign."