DCCC adds seven to Red to Blue

The Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee (DCCC) on Friday added seven candidates to its increasingly large Red to Blue program.

The additions include three candidates who lost in 2006 and a trio of challengers in races that have been late in forming. The program now has 45 candidates — a sign of just how much offense the Democrats feel they can play in November. 

One of the seven added is for a race that still needs its official candidate. The DCCC noted in a memo to members that it will add the winner of Tuesday's Democratic primary in Rep. Kenny Hulshof's (R-Mo.) district to the list. The leading candidates there are state Rep. Judy Baker and former House Speaker Steve Gaw. Hulshof is running for governor. 

{mosads}In Ohio, Democrat Vic Wulsin was finally added after surprisingly not making the first three cuts. She lost to Rep. Jean Schmidt (R-Ohio) by just one point in 2006.

Former Nevada Democratic Party Chairwoman Jill Derby came within five points of upsetting Republican Dean Heller in an open race in that state’s 2nd district.

Professor Judy Feder (D) will have some more ground to make up in Virginia against Rep. Frank Wolf (R). Despite being well-funded, she lost 57-41 in 2006.

The other beneficiaries are Louisiana state Sen. Don Cravins Jr., who is running against Rep. Charles Boustany Jr. (R); Kathy Dahlkemper, who is challenging Rep. Phil English (R-Pa.); and Tom Perriello, who has raised big money for an uphill race against Rep. Virgil Goode (R-Va.).