Despite being one of the most prolific fundraisers in Congress, Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand (D) has not expanded her financial reach with her own political action committee — until now.

Gillibrand has filed the paperwork to create Empire PAC.

Gillibrand raised a total of $7.1 million in 2009, and as this year began, she had $5.2 million on hand to defend her Senate seat. Opening a leadership PAC will allow her to raise more money from the same sources to distribute to other candidates and party committees.