DCCC Announces Leadership of Key Committee Efforts

Washington, D.C. — Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee Chair Chris Van Hollen today announced the leadership for the Red to Blue program and named an additional chair to the Frontline Program.

Representatives Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D-FL), Artur Davis (D-AL), and Bruce Braley (D-IA) will chair the Red to Blue Program for the 2008 cycle. The Red to Blue program highlights top Democratic campaigns across the country, and offers them financial, communications, grassroots, and strategic support. The very successful fundraising effort helped raise over $22.6 million for 56 candidates last cycle.

DCCC Chair Chris Van Hollen said, “The DCCC is focused on not only preserving our gains but growing them. The aggressive leadership overseeing our Red to Blue Program allows us to stay on the offense. Congressmen Braley is a wonderful addition to a team consisting of Chairman Emanuel, Congresswoman Wasserman Schultz, Congressman Davis and Congressman Crowley. They’ll be real assets to our candidates as they campaign on a message of change.”

Representative Wasserman Schultz brings her experience from co-chairing, with Chairman Van Hollen, last cycle’s successful and effective Red to Blue Program. Representative Davis brings his experience as the chair of the DCCC Recruitment Committee, and as a former member of Red to Blue, Representative Braley brings first hand knowledge that will serve Democratic candidates well this cycle. Chairman Van Hollen also announced that Representative Joe Crowley (D-NY), Chair of the DCCC Business Council, will be focusing on our open seat opportunities this cycle.

In addition, Chair Van Hollen announced Representative Dennis Cardoza (D-CA), a member of the Blue Dog Coalition, will join Democratic Caucus Chairman Rahm Emanuel (D-NY) and Congresswoman Wasserman Schultz in chairing the Frontline Program. The Frontline Program is a partnership between the DCCC and Members which lays the ground work for the 2008 cycle by supporting and expanding their fundraising and outreach operations.

Congresswoman Wasserman Schultz, Chair of the Frontline Program, said: “Our Frontliners have been hard at work in their districts and have proven themselves to be exceptional leaders. The Frontline Program is stronger than it has ever been and Representative Cardoza’s energy and dedication will serve our 29 members well.”

“Congressman Cardoza is a great addition to our outstanding Frontline leadership team of Congresswoman Wasserman Schultz and Congressman Emanuel. He is a well-respected leader within the Blue Dog Coalition and will be able to bring their expertise on fiscal issues and rural districts to our campaigns across the country. No one knows better than Congressman Cardoza how to win in tough districts.” said Chair Van Hollen.