NRCC: Doheny a 'contender'

The National Republican Congressional Committee already likes Watertown businessman Matt Doheny, but today the group stepped up its support, labeling him a "contender" candidate.

According to a release sent out by NRCC, becoming a "contender" candidate is "the important third step in the 'Young Guns' program." The Young Guns program was launched by NRCC in the 2007-08 election cycle by Congressmen Eric Cantor, Kevin McCarthy and Paul Ryan. It's a member-driven program aimed at recruiting candidates.

Doheny is among several challengers to U.S. Rep. Bill Owens in New York's new 21st Congressional District. Kellie Greene of Sackets Habor will challenge him in the June 26 Republican primary, and Donald Hassig of Colton is on the Green Party line.

Here's the rest of today's press release from NRCC:

"We are looking forward to working with Matt Doheny, who has already proven himself by meeting rigorous benchmarks in the 'Young Guns’ program that will position his campaign for victory,” said NRCC Chairman Pete Sessions (R-TX). “Matt Doheny’s dedication and experience positions him to advocate for pro-growth policies and fight the failed Democrat status quo in Washington. This will stand in stark contrast to the Democrats’ record of spending, borrowing and taxing that New York families know has failed.” Specifically, the ‘Young Guns’ program encourages candidates who have proven their ability to meet crucial campaign benchmarks to develop their campaigns further in order to achieve victory on Election Day. In achieving ‘Contender’ status, Doheny has met the third set of these organizational and fundraising benchmarks and has already begun to establish himself as a strong challenger.