On Monday, February 23, the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee (DCCC) launched its “Red to Blue” program, announcing its initial slate of 12 candidates aiming to reclaim the House of Representatives in 2026.
The “Red to Blue” program will provide organizational resources, fundraising guidance and strategic staff support to candidates running in competitive Republican-held districts. DCCC Chair Suzan DelBene (D-Wash) stated the party is “on offense” and described the candidates as leaders dedicated to “putting people first” over corporate interests.
Veterans and Seasoned Legislators Lead the Charge
The initial roster includes candidates with backgrounds in the military and legislative arenas. Marine Corps veteran JoAnna Mendoza is running in Arizona’s 6th District. Former Representative Elaine Luria is a candidate in Virginia’s 2nd District, and former state Representative Christina Bohannan is running in Iowa’s 1st District.
Shannon Taylor, the Henrico Commonwealth’s Attorney, is running in Virginia’s 1st District, highlighting the party’s focus on local officials with established records. The DCCC aims to maximize early fundraising and ground-game advantages by supporting candidates with experience in these battleground terrains.
GOP’s Minor Margin Faces Headwinds
The current Republican majority of 218-214 means the GOP can only afford a single defection on party-line votes. Democrats are drawing parallels to the 2018 midterm cycle, when an anti-GOP climate led to a “blue wave” during President Trump’s first term. Recent overperformances in special elections are further bolstering the DCCC’s outlook.
While rumors of early GOP retirements, such as Florida Representative Neal Dunn, have been denied, any unexpected vacancies could further jeopardize the Republican Party’s control of the House heading into the fall.
Focus on Lowering Costs and Helping Families
Chair DelBene characterized the 2026 contest as a choice between candidates fighting for “hardworking families” and a Republican “corrupt and divisive machine.” The “Red to Blue” candidates are expected to focus their campaigns on lowering consumer costs and protecting healthcare access, issues the party believes will resonate with voters in swing districts.
The DCCC will continue to add candidates to the program as they meet specific organizational and fundraising benchmarks.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the “Red to Blue” program?
The “Red to Blue” program is an initiative by the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee (DCCC) designed to support top-tier candidates running in competitive Republican-held districts by providing organizational resources, fundraising guidance, and strategic staff.
Who is leading the DCCC?
Suzan DelBene (D-Wash) is the Chair of the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee (DCCC).
What is the current makeup of the House of Representatives?
The current Republican majority in the House of Representatives is 218-214.
As Democrats begin to actively campaign for control of the House, what role will fundraising and grassroots organizing play in determining the outcome of the 2026 election?
