The Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee has added Ann Kirkpatrick (D-Flagstaff) and Bob Lord (D-Phoenix) to its Red to Blue program.

Kirkpatrick is running against Sydney Hay (R-Munds Park) in the 1st Congressional District for the seat being vacated by Rep. Rick Renzi (R-Flagstaff).

Lord is competing against current congressman John Shadegg (R-Phoenix) in the 3rd Congressional District.

The Red to Blue program will provide candidates with economic and strategic assistance, including increased exposure. In the 2006 election cycle, the program raised nearly $22.6 million for Democratic candidates.

Chris Van Hollen, Chairman of the DCCC, said in a statement, "The candidates for change being named to the DCCC Red to Blue program are running strong campaigns and are committed to making things easier for middle class families in their districts."

Along with Kirkpatrick and Lord, the DCCC nominated 12 more candidates in the third round of the Red to Blue program. Eligibility is based on criteria such as how well the respective contender exceeds fundraising goals, expresses their endorsement for change and the new policies they plan to enact when elected to congress.