The Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee (DCCC) has added five new candidates to its Red to Blue program, a strategic initiative aimed at supporting candidates in competitive districts with the goal of flipping the House of Representatives. This expansion brings the total number of races receiving DCCC support to 37.

DCCC Chair Rep. Suzan DelBene, D-Wash., stated that the newly added candidates are "proven fighters who are running strong campaigns, talking to every voter, and building coalitions across the ideological spectrum to power their victories in November." The Red to Blue program provides these candidates with strategic guidance, staff resources, training, and fundraising assistance.

The five new recipients of Red to Blue support are Tom Perriello in Virginia's 5th Congressional District, Nancy Lacore in South Carolina's 1st Congressional District, Matt Dunlap in Maine's 2nd Congressional District, Zach Dembo in Kentucky's 6th Congressional District, and Leela Gray in Florida's 13th Congressional District.

Notably, all five candidates possess backgrounds in public service or military experience. Leela Gray, who secured the Democratic nomination in Florida's 13th District, has a 30-year Army career, including service as a brigadier general. Nancy Lacore, the Democratic candidate in South Carolina's 1st District, is a former three-star Navy admiral. Zach Dembo served as a Navy JAG officer and a DOJ prosecutor. Matt Dunlap previously served as Maine Secretary of State, and Tom Perriello is a former congressman.

While the DCCC is increasing its focus on these districts, many remain challenging for Democrats. Three of the districts – VA-05, SC-01, and KY-06 – were won by Republicans with an average margin of 19.3%. Only FL-13 and ME-02 were decided by less than 10% in previous elections. The race in Maine's 2nd District is the most competitive of the group, having been won by a narrow 0.6% margin in 2024 by Rep. Jared Golden, who is not seeking re-election.

DelBene indicated that these candidates will emphasize issues where voters may feel that Republican representatives have not met expectations. "American families are struggling under the broken promises and higher costs caused by House Republicans, and they’re eager for leaders who will always put the well-being of their communities first, not rubber-stamp Trump’s failed agenda," DelBene said.

All five candidates have successfully navigated their primary elections and will proceed to the general election on November 3.