NewDem Action Fund Targets Competitive Open Seats in Latest Slate of “Candidates to Watch”

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date
: June 6, 2022
Contact: Emma Weir, Emma@NewDemActionFund.com

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Continuing on their commitment to preserving a thoughtful, forward-looking Coalition of results-driven leaders, the New Democrat Coalition Action Fund today announced the addition of five candidates to its “Candidate Watch List.” These additions include: Don Davis (NC-01), Wiley Nickel (NC-13), Eric Lynn (FL-13), Gilbert Villegas (IL-03), and Patrick Pihana Branco (HI-02).

“The New Democrat Coalition Action Fund knows that maintaining our Democratic majority as well as growing our impactful coalition in Congress means competing and winning in open seats across the country,” said Congressman Brad Schneider, Chair of the New Dem Action Fund. “From the Island of Oʻahu to the city of Chicago, these NewDem candidates are running to bring fresh perspectives to Congress and deliver real results for their districts.”

NewDem Action Fund’s “Candidate Watch List” represents early-stage support for candidates running for Congress.

"I am proud to be included on the Watch List for the NewDem Action Fund. As a former US Diplomat, I know that Congress needs to prioritize people over politics to improve the lives of our ʻohana,” said Patrick Pihana Branco (HI-02). “I look forward to working with the NewDems to support our rural communities by advancing policies that develop industry, create good-paying jobs, and end the cost and access disparities in rural healthcare." 

“I am honored to be a member of the NewDems’ watch list. I am proud we share so many of the same goals and priorities such as the need for more affordable housing, increased investments in public education, protecting our environment, and a tough national security approach that protects our values and promotes them abroad,” said Eric Lynn (FL-13). “I look forward to working with many of my friends in the New Democrat Coalition in Congress.”

"I am proud to be placed on the NewDem Action Fund Watch List," said State Senator Don Davis (NC-01). "As a minister, a veteran, and a State Senator, I've dedicated my life to public service and fighting for eastern North Carolina. Now more than ever, we must empower the next generation of leaders and entrepreneurs to make sure eastern North Carolina receives our fair share. I'm honored to partner with the NewDems to push for common-sense, innovative solutions and deliver for North Carolina's First Congressional District."

"If we’re going to deliver quality education and childcare to all, expand affordable healthcare, and protect reproductive rights, we'll need representatives in Congress that are committed to getting results for the American people,” said Wiley Nickel (NC-13). “As a State Senator, I've worked across the aisle to get things done, including passing legislation to expand rural broadband and protect victims of domestic abuse. I'm ready to continue that work and fight hard for NC-13 in Congress."

"I am honored to be on the NewDems Watch List,” said Gilbert Villegas (IL-03). “Our goals in Congress align, we must put the people of this country first over the divisive politics that are plaguing our nation right now. Better public safety, stronger economy, higher-paying jobs, clean energy, and equity in education are the priorities that I look forward to working on with the New Democrat Coalition as the best candidate to represent the residents of the Illinois 3rd District."

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 NewDems and elect new, like-minded leaders who can help develop a positive policy agenda and message.

 

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