Doug Thornell

The National Republican Congressional Committee is taking its counterpart, the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee, to task over their support of CD1 candidate Ann Kirkpatrick. Ken Spain, spokesman for the NRCC, criticized Kirkpatrick as the "hand-picked Washington candidate" after the DCCC added her to its Red to Blue list, which helps Democratic challengers with fundraising and organization.

“Despite repeated claims that they would remain neutral in primaries, the DCCC has decided to make Ann Kirkpatrick the hand-picked Washington candidate of choice" said Spain in an email. "That is because they know she will be a rubber stamp for Nancy Pelosi and her liberal agenda of higher taxes, government-run healthcare, and soaring energy costs.”

The DCCC, however, denies that her inclusion in the program amounts to an endorsement, saying it is only a reflection of her strength as a candidate.

Several Democratic candidates running in Congressional District 1 say the DCCC is attempting to clear the crowded field of candidates with the intention of securing the nomination for Ann Kirkpatrick.  read more »