This just in: the DCCC has announced that congressional challengers Ashwin Madia (MN-03) and Walt Minnick (ID-01) have been added to the Red to Blue program. Madia, fresh off the official endorsement of the state Democratic-Farmer-Labor Party in Minnesota, is running for the open seat vacated by the retiring Jim Ramstad (R). Madia is a particularly notable figure because of his humble roots– he grew up in poverty, the son of immigrants from India– and because of his service as a Marine in the Iraq War. His only Republican opponent at this time is State Rep. Erik Paulsen.
Walt Minnick is a Harvard-educated businessman and an advocate for environmental conservation. He has a moderate track record in terms of his work for both political parties. In running against Congressman Bill Sali, Minnick will give residents of the Boise region a chance to be represented by a competent person, rather than a complete nutjob.
So, congrats to both, and bravo to the DCCC– strength in numbers! Woohoo!