News & Updates from the Blue Dogs

22 Blue Dogs and Counting

Blue Dog PAC, chaired by Frontline incumbent Rep. Adam Gray (CA-13), ran one of the largest campaigns in the Blue Dog’s more than 30-year history. Blue Dogs built on lessons learned over the past decade and ran 22 high-quality candidates and moved over a dozen House districts from Solid or Likely Republican into the Lean Republican, Toss Up, and even Lean Democratic territory. Every Blue Dog prioritized affordability and health care, national defense, fiscal responsibility, and the needs of their local communities.

Beef and Barn Dances: A Farmer Tries to Turn a Red Patch of N.C. Blue

Jamie Ager, a Democratic candidate for North Carolina’s 11th Congressional District, is attempting to secure a win in a traditionally conservative region. Known for his grass-fed beef, Ager's campaign contrasts with Republican opponent Jennifer Balkcom, who has faced negative attention over her public statements. Recent political shifts have increased competitiveness, particularly following the resignation of Republican incumbent Chuck Edwards amid harassment allegations. Key issues include rising living and healthcare costs, alongside the region’s struggle with government distrust and recovery from natural disasters like Hurricane Helene. Ager aims to resonate with voters through relatable campaign strategies, including barn dancing, as he strives to change the political landscape.

From sheriff’s deputy to congressional hopeful, Johnny Garcia looks to bridge political divides

With nearly two decades in law enforcement, Johnny Garcia's campaign focuses on the principle that deputies respond to emergencies regardless of political affiliation. He aims to connect with voters in a district that has recently leaned more Republican. Garcia's political ambitions were sparked by former Sheriff Javier Salazar, leading to his candidacy after a career dedicated to service, including roles that taught him the importance of treating individuals with dignity in crisis situations.

Watching for a Blue Wave in South Carolina

Nancy Lacore is among the dozens of military leaders that Hegseth has sacked or ousted over the past year and a half, many of them women and people of color. She’s since taken a different path: Lacore recounted her story to me after a campaign event outside Charleston, South Carolina, where she is asking voters to send her back to Washington—this time as a member of Congress. When Lacore left the Pentagon on that summer Friday, she never returned, her 35-year military career effectively over. (The Pentagon declined to comment.) By January, she had launched a bid as a Democrat for the House in South Carolina’s Low Country.

Blue Dog PAC Endorses Seven New Battleground Candidates

Blue Dog PAC has endorsed seven additional Democratic congressional candidates: Nancy Lacore (SC-01), Dwayne Romero (CO-03), Eileen Laubacher (CO-04), Paul Barringer (NC-13), Don Coover (KS-02), Amanda Marie Green (FL-02), and Zack Mullock (NJ-02). The endorsements bring the Blue Dogs' total to 23 candidates this cycle, expanding Democratic competition in Republican-held districts with candidates focused on affordability, fiscal responsibility, and practical solutions.

How Big a Wave? This Minnesota Math Teacher Could Be the Democrats’ High-Water Mark.

What began as a long-shot campaign for Minnesota Democrat Jake Johnson has become a competitive congressional race. The high school math teacher and political newcomer initially struggled to attract party support while challenging Republican incumbent Brad Finstad. Now, Johnson is outraising Finstad, polls show a statistical dead heat, and Republicans are pouring money into defending the seat.

A small-town Alaska fisherman has Republicans on the defensive as they try to keep US House majority

In Alaska's primary election season, independent candidate Bill Hill, a first-time contender and Alaska Native, temporarily paused his U.S. House campaign to join the sockeye salmon run, emphasizing his working-class roots. Hill, 57, who grew up in a remote community, prioritizes affordability against billionaire influence and campaigns actively against incumbent Republican Nick Begich. While Hill has traveled extensively across the state to connect with voters, he faces challenges due to Begich's established political lineage and name recognition. Despite some Democratic support and a shifting candidate landscape, Hill's path to victory remains complex.

South Texas is Moving On From Trump

Dive into the dynamics of South Texas politics in 2026. Discover how Trump, Cuellar, Gonzalez, and Hinojosa are influencing the region's future.

The Democratic Civil War Is Raging — Except in This Swing-State Race

Politico Magazine reports on Rebecca Cooke, who united progressives and moderates in her Wisconsin swing-district race and now has to win in November.

Two Drinks with . . . Marie Gluesenkamp Perez

The Free Press talks with Rep. Marie Gluesenkamp Perez about siding with Republicans on some votes and why she thinks Democrats need room to disagree.

This Texas crooner could help Democrats win Congress, one quinceañera at a time

The Washington Post profiles Bobby Pulido, the Texas singer and Democratic candidate who would be the only member of Congress with a Latin Grammy.

‘Make Quinceañeras Great Again’: A Texan Singer Puts the G.O.P. on Defense

The New York Times reports that Tejano musician Bobby Pulido has put Republicans on defense in a Texas House district President Trump won easily in 2024.

Rep. Adam Gray talks immigration, socialism and Trump. ‘Not symbolic nonsense’

U.S. Rep. Adam Gray faces a challenging election amid extreme partisanship. Discover his centrist approach and the dynamics of California's 13th District.

DOGE Upended His Work. Does Montana Care Enough to Vote for Him?

The Washington Sun reports on Sam Forstag, a Forest Service smokejumper whose work was upended by DOGE and who is now running for Congress in Montana.

In South Texas, Bobby Pulido urges voters to see beyond red and blue

Roll Call follows Bobby Pulido on the trail in South Texas, where the Tejano singer asks voters in Republican areas to look past party labels.

Democratic doctors, nurses aim to flip Congress seats with a focus on healthcare

Good Morning America reports on Democratic doctors and nurses running for Congress with campaigns centered on lowering healthcare costs.

Blue Dog PAC Endorses Four New Candidates Ready to Win Tough Seats

Today, the Blue Dog PAC announced its endorsement of four candidates running in the competitive districts that will determine next year’s House majority: Jake Johnson in Minnesota’s 1st Congressional District, Chaz Molder in Tennessee’s 5th, Mitchell Berman in Wisconsin’s 1st, and Bill Hill in Alaska’s at-large district.

Exclusive: Leela Gray, a Retired Army Brigadier General, Would be First-Ever Female General Elected to Congress

Military.com interviews retired Army Brig. Gen. Leela Gray, who served 30 years and is challenging Rep. Anna Paulina Luna in Florida's 13th District.

This smokejumper says the US has lost its empathy. That’s why he’s running for Congress

The Guardian interviews Montana smokejumper Sam Forstag, who is running for Congress and says neither party is serving the working class.

Meet the cop-loving North Country dairy farmer Democrat trying to flip Stefanik’s seat

In New York's 21st Congressional District, yard signs are prevalent, prominently featuring Democratic nominee Blake Gendebien, a dairy farmer who presents himself as a moderate. Gendebien aims to capitalize on his local roots and the evolving political climate, facing off against Republican candidate Anthony Constantino, known for his flamboyant background. Gendebien, with a history in agricultural leadership, believes his community ties are crucial for appeal in this traditionally Republican area. Observers note that his candidacy aligns well with the current anti-Trump sentiment, suggesting he has a viable chance to flip this seat.