When Representative Mikie Sherrill clinched victory in the New Jersey gubernatorial primary on Tuesday, the “Hellcats” group chat—a digital gathering of aspiring female congressional candidates—buzzed with elation.
The four members of the “Hellcats,” named in homage to the pioneering female Marines of World War I, share a common thread of military experience and are gearing up for Congressional bids in 2026. Sherrill, a former Navy helicopter pilot, serves as a beacon of inspiration for the next wave of party candidates.
In an effort to revitalize their image and reclaim the House in 2026, Democrats are spotlighting Sherrill and presumed Virginia gubernatorial nominee Abigail Spanberger, a former congresswoman and CIA officer, as exemplars of the party’s potential for success.
Sherrill and Spanberger epitomize the Democratic strategy to reclaim competitive districts by fielding moderate candidates with military backgrounds—individuals who can credibly assert that they prioritize their country over party allegiance. Dan Sena, who formerly directed the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee, remarked, “Candidates with records of service demonstrated their capacity to succeed in the most challenging districts and states during the 2018 cycle. This time, the same dynamics are emerging with these candidates.”
Democrats argue that these House contenders can articulate their political ambitions as a natural progression of their public service, originating from military or national security roles. They bristle at the Republican narrative equating MAGA sentiments with patriotism.
“In this tumultuous era, particularly as this administration sows chaos and undermines our democracy, veterans are stepping up to serve their country once again,” noted JoAnna Mendoza, a retired Marine combat veteran who is challenging Rep. Juan Ciscomani (R-Ariz.).
Mendoza is part of the “Hellcats” alongside Rebecca Bennett, a former Navy officer running against Rep. Tom Kean (R-N.J.); Maura Sullivan, a former Marine vying to replace Rep. Chris Pappas (D-N.H.); and Cait Conley, an Army veteran and ex-National Security Council official challenging Rep. Mike Lawler (R-N.Y.).
Democrats assert that these candidates infuse the party with enthusiasm that translates into substantial fundraising efforts. In Pennsylvania, Marine and federal prosecutor Ryan Croswell, who resigned under pressure from President Trump to drop charges against New York Mayor Eric Adams, raised over $215,000 within the first 48 hours of launching his campaign—an impressive figure that underscores the enthusiasm surrounding this cycle.
Spanberger shared a selfie on X just moments after her former Washington roommate Sherrill triumphed in her primary. The duo aims to leverage their political platforms as stepping stones to higher office, drawing on their experiences that helped flip the House to Democratic control in 2018.
In Michigan, former CIA analyst Sen. Elissa Slotkin successfully fended off GOP Rep. Mike Rogers, a fellow Army veteran, in a state that Kamala Harris lost in 2024. Meanwhile, New Jersey Sen. Andy Kim, a former State Department adviser on Afghanistan, secured his election for the seat once occupied by former Sen. Bob Menendez, who faced federal corruption charges.
“Patriotism is a value that Democrats shouldn’t shy away from discussing,” stated Jared Leopold, former communications director for the Democratic Governors Association. “Leading the conversation on this topic can be a productive way for Democrats to connect with voters on everyday issues.”
Democrats with backgrounds in national security help mitigate a significant vulnerability for the party—namely, the perception of weakness. Focus groups conducted post-2024 revealed that voters across the political spectrum view the Democratic Party as overly elitist and too cautious. Polling consistently indicates that Republicans are perceived as the party more trusted with national security matters, and the GOP has a deep bench of veterans currently in office.
However, military service or experience in national security roles “protects them from accusations of being soft,” explained Amanda Litman, co-founder of Run For Something, an organization dedicated to recruiting young candidates. “This background allows them to deflect criticism without having to explicitly state their toughness,” Litman continued. “A former Navy helicopter pilot or prosecutor has an inherent toughness in their resume, enabling female candidates to be authentic rather than resorting to bravado.”
Of course, such narratives can backfire. Historical instances include former Democratic presidential nominee John Kerry, who faced “swift boat” attacks despite his military service. More recently, the military background of Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz was scrutinized when he was nominated for vice president.
Bennett, also an active member of the Air National Guard, believes her dual identity as a veteran and a mother uniquely positions her to resonate with voters, providing a natural segue into discussions about financial pressures such as exorbitant daycare costs.
“I have led in some of the most challenging environments imaginable,” she said. “And as a mother, I have a profound understanding of the issues and challenges that families face.”
