Iraq War veteran Ashwin Madia was added Wednesday to the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee’s “Red to Blue” program, which targets Republican-held seats.

The announcement came four days after Madia won the Democratic-Farmer-Labor Party endorsement for the 3rd district. He heads to a general election that is considered one of the most competitive in the country, with moderate Rep. Jim Ramstad (R) retiring from Congress.

The DCCC said in a statement that it picks candidates for this program based on their ability to surpass fundraising goals and their “skills showing voters that they will stand for change.” In turn, the campaign committee said it gives the candidate financial, communications and strategic support.

“The Red to Blue Program will give Ashwin the financial and structural edge to be even more competitive this year,” DCCC Chairman Chris Van Hollen (Md.) said in a statement. “Congressman Ramstad’s retirement and Ashwin Madia’s ability to unite Democrats behind his candidacy makes this suburban district a good pick up opportunity for Democrats.”

Madia, whose nomination will be official after the Sept. 6 primary, will face state Rep. Erik Paulsen (R) this fall in the suburban Minneapolis district. No Democrat is expected to challenge Madia in the upcoming primary.

— Shira Toeplitz