WASHINGTON - Today, the National Republican Congressional Committee announced that Jeff Gorell has been elevated to ‘Contender’ in the NRCC’s ‘Young Guns’ program. The program helps to provide candidates and their campaigns the tools they need to run effective, successful and winning campaigns against their Democratic opponents. Originally founded in the 2007-2008 election cycle by Majority Leader Rep. Eric Cantor (R-VA), Majority Whip Rep. Kevin McCarthy (R-CA) and Budget Chairman Rep. Paul Ryan (R-WI), the Young Guns program supports and mentors challenger and open-seat candidates in races across the country. Gorell is running in California’s 26th Congressional District.

“Voters believe strongly that the country is on the wrong track because of President Obama and Nancy Pelosi’s failed legislation, like ObamaCare. Jeff Gorell has reached the ‘Contender’ status because he is exemplary of the new leadership needed in Washington D.C. to turn our country around and provide a check and balance in Washington,” said NRCC Chairman Greg Walden (R-OR). “I am confident that Jeff will continue to work hard for his district and bring sound, conservative principles to Congress.”

Jeff Gorell is a military veteran, educator, and legislator. He is currently a Commander-Select in the United States Navy Reserve. After the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks, Jeff was deployed to the Persian Gulf and Afghanistan and has been decorated for his leadership in combat. He currently serves as a member in the California State Assembly and holds a teaching post at California Lutheran University. Jeff and his wife Laura have three children.