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The Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee on Monday is naming 19 membersto the Frontline Program for its most vulnerable incumbents in 2018.

The initial Frontline roster, obtained first by Roll Call,is about half freshman members. Eight members won in districts President Donald Trump carried last fall. And all of them, save for one, are National Republican Congressional Committeeinitial targets.

Seven of the members on this years list were also on the DCCCs initial 2016 Frontline list. Out of the 12 Frontline members on the 2016 list who sought re-election last fall only Nebraska Rep. Brad Ashford lost.

Each of these Democrats knows how to win tough races proven by their success in a difficult national environment in 2016, DCCC Chairman Ben Ray Lujn said in a statement.

The Frontline Program will help these members again build strong campaigns, maximize resources and take advantage of the energy from the grassroots, so that they can continue to fight on behalf of the hardworking people in their districts, Lujn added.

Democrats need to gain 24 seats to win control of the House next year, which makes protecting their incumbents a high priority during a midterm year when turnout is typically less favorable for the party.

The NRCC named 10 members to its incumbent protection program last month.

Here are the 19 members on the Frontline roster, which is subject to change as the cycle develops:

Republicans have identified 36 targets for 2018, a third of which are in Trump districts. But several of those members are absent fromthe initial Frontline roster.

Trump carried Minnesota Rep. Collin C. Petersons 7th District by more than 30 points, which led Peterson to have a closer-than-expected re-election against an underfunded challenger. The same was true for fellow Democratic-Farmer-Labor Rep. Tim Walz, who won re-election by less than one point. Both seats could be strong pick-up opportunities for Republicans if open. ButInside Elections with Nathan L. Gonzalescurrently rates them bothLean Democrat.

Republicans also have their sights set on Pennsylvania Rep. Matt Cartwright, whose 17th District Trump won by 10 points. Inside Elections rates his seat Democrat Favored. Trump more narrowlywon Wisconsin Rep. Ron Kind's district. His seat is also rated Democrat Favoredbut could present a stronger opening for Republicans if Kind runs for governor.

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Excerpt from:
Democrats Identify Vulnerable Members for 2018 - Roll Call