FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 14, 2022
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today the New Democrat Coalition Action Fund announced six additions to their Candidate Watch List: Emilia Sykes (OH-13), Jeff Jackson (NC-14), Laura Gillen (NY-04), Jevin Hodge (AZ-01), Ruben Ramirez (TX-15), and Jane Hope Hamilton (TX-30). These additions reaffirm NewDem Action Fund’s commitment to uplifting results-driven candidates and investing in strategic pick-up opportunities.
“The NewDem Action Fund’s mission remains protecting our Members and bringing new, like-minded leaders into the fold. That is how we will continue delivering results and making progress for every community across America,” said NewDem Action Fund Chair Rep. Brad Schneider. “The Democratic Majority’s efficacy in Congress depends on NewDems recruiting and supporting outstanding candidates who are focused on working collaboratively, building impactful coalitions, and delivering on core pocketbook issues. These six candidates share our value of putting results over rhetoric – they’ll work across the aisle and within our caucus to advance core Democratic values.”
NewDem Action Fund’s “Candidate Watch List” represents early-stage support for candidates running for Congress and serves as an indicator for races to watch. NewDem Action Fund’s “candidates to watch” released in September represented the first slate of candidate support from any of the House’s ideological caucuses. NewDem-backed candidates represent 11 of the 12 candidates recently added to DCCC’s “Red to Blue list.” Last year, NewDem Action Fund added OH-11 candidate Shontel Brown to the Watch List before endorsing her ahead of her primary election victory.
“It’s an honor to be on the NewDem Action Fund watch list. As a state legislator I’ve been able to deliver for my constituents by working across the aisle and being open to a variety of viewpoints,” said State Rep. Emilia Sykes (OH-13). “Whether it’s fighting for affordable healthcare or working to bring costs down for families, I’m excited to take that experience with me to Washington and partner with NewDems to deliver for Northeast Ohioans.”
“I am proud to be placed on the NewDem Action Fund Watch List. It is necessary that we find practical solutions for American families,” said State Senator Jeff Jackson (NC-14). “Lowering costs, tackling climate change, expanding broadband and giving workers the tools they need in the changing economy will benefit everyone, from the bottom up. It may not be easy, but it’s the right thing to do. I’m eager to work with the New Dems to deliver for NC-14.”
“I am honored and grateful to be a new addition to the NewDem Action Fund Candidate Watch List. My time in government has been focused on delivering real change for everyday people”, said Laura Gillen (NY-04). “As the Supervisor of the Town of Hempstead I fought to clean up local government, lower taxes, protect the environment, and bring transparency and fiscal sanity to America’s largest township. I will bring that results-oriented approach to Congress and look forward to finding effective ways to bring people together to tackle the rapidly rising cost of living, lower healthcare costs, and create jobs and innovation hubs for the future.”
"Arizona families are tired of Representatives like David Schweikert who are only looking out for themselves,” said Jevin Hodge (AZ-01). “I'm honored to be added to the NewDem Action Fund Watch List so we can fight for good jobs, better access to healthcare, and to fully fund our public schools. When I'm in Congress, you can trust I'll be fighting for you."
“I am incredibly honored to join with the NewDems to keep this key seat in Congress. Their motto is “Get Stuff Done” - a phrase that’s been at the forefront of our campaign. Our campaign is building the momentum needed to deliver great paying jobs, quality affordable healthcare, and an excellent education for our children,” said Ruben Remirez (TX-15). “I am ready to continue my service to my community and country. From the classroom, to the battlefield, to the Capitol, we are in this fight together! I’m ready to lead TX-15 into an even brighter future.”
"I am honored to be added to the NewDem Action Fund Watch List. For over 20 years, I’ve fought for Democratic values in North Texas and delivered some of Texas's most prominent Democratic wins,” said Jane Hope Hamilton (TX-30). “Our communities need real solutions to rampant inflation, inaccessible healthcare, lack of quality jobs and the many other issues that keep our families up at night. In Congress, I will cut through partisan gridlock and fight to put our government back on the side of working people. I look forward to working with New Dems to make progress on the issues that matter most to North Texas families.”
The New Democrat Coalition is the largest ideological caucus amongst House Democrats, counting more than forty percent of the caucus as members. The 98 NewDems represent a central core of the Democratic Party and advocate within Congress, and the party as a whole, for innovative approaches and constructive solutions to move America forward. 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.
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