FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 10, 2021
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today the New Democrat Coalition Action Fund announced five additions to their Candidate Watch List, designating early battlegrounds heading into the midterm elections and reinforcing their commitment to maintaining the Democratic majority.
These Candidate Watch List additions are: Jay Chen (CA-39), Quaye Quartey (CA-25), Liz Mathis (IA-01), John Lira (TX-23), and Christina Bohannan (IA-02).
“The NewDem Action Fund’s mission is to protect its Members and bring new, like-minded leaders into the fold. That’s how we continue delivering results and make progress on our priorities, like ensuring a full economic recovery in the midst of the pandemic,” said NewDem Action Fund Chair Rep. Brad Schneider. “The Democratic Majority runs through NewDems because we support candidates who can build coalitions, communicate effectively, and connect on core pocketbook issues that speak to the concerns of voters. That playbook has served us well, and I believe it will serve us again in 2022.”
NewDem Action Fund’s “Candidate Watch List” represents early-stage support for candidates running for Congress. Earlier this year, NewDem Action Fund added OH-11 candidate Shontel Brown to the Watch List before endorsing her ahead of her primary election victory. NewDems have also endorsed former Rep. Harley Rouda in CA-48.
Today’s announcement represents the first slate of candidate support from any of the House ideological caucuses outside of a special election.
"I'm deeply honored to be added to the NewDem Watch List,” said Liz Mathis (IA-01). “Throughout my career, I have worked to find solutions by bridging divides and bringing people together. Those values are what drive the New Democrat Coalition, and I'm excited to work alongside them to flip Iowa's 1st District and expand the Democratic majority in the House."
“It’s incredibly meaningful to be named to the NewDem Action Fund’s Candidate Watch List,” said Quaye Quartey (CA-25). “As a former service member, I firmly believe that we need more elected leaders who prioritize progress over politics as usual. In Congress, I look forward to working alongside fellow NewDems to fight for affordable healthcare, lower prescription drug prices, higher wages, and affordable housing for California families.”
"It is an honor to be selected for the NewDem Action Fund’s Watch List,” said John Lira (TX-23). “Throughout my career, both in the Marine Corps and as a public servant, I have worked on pragmatic solutions that have strengthened our security and helped our economic development, missions that I hope to continue in Congress.”
"I am proud to have the support of an organization that champions the kind of economic growth that all Americans can benefit from,” said Jay Chen (CA-39). “We have a shared vision for what is possible in California's 39th congressional district and I admire the NewDems commitment to helping candidates like myself fight for progress in competitive districts."
“I am so proud to be included on the Watch List for the NewDem Action Fund,” said Christina Bohannan (IA-02). “Coming from a rural background, with parents who didn't finish high school, I had to work very hard to build a life for myself--and I will work even harder to win election and keep a Democratic majority in the U.S. Congress. As a law professor specializing in intellectual property and innovation, I look forward to working with fellow NewDems to expand opportunity and sustainable, responsible economic growth. I know that the support of NewDems will help us take back this targeted seat."
Made up of 95 Democrats, NewDems advocate within the Democratic Party and Congress for new ideas and new approaches to move America forward. The New Democrat Coalition is the largest ideological caucus amongst House Democrats and represents more than forty percent of House Democrats. Formed by Members of the New Democrat Coalition, the NewDem Action Fund helps re-elect House NewDems and elect new, like-minded leaders who can help develop a positive policy agenda and message.