The National Republican Congressional Committee (NRCC) has added first-term U.S. Rep. Chip Cravaack to the party's "Patriot Program," ensuring that he'll receive national support for what is expected to be a tough re-election campaign.

The NRCC is the campaign arm of U.S. House Republicans that supports incumbents and candidates, lending extra support to those facing highly competitive races. Enrolling a candidate in the Patriot Program sends a signal to deep-pocketed donors that the officer-seeker is a worthy recipient.

"Patriot members have demonstrated the leadership and ability to wage aggressive campaigns based on rigorous goals and proven strategies for victory," NRCC chairman Pete session.

Cravaack is in need of that support, he wrote to supporters in an email to supporters Wednesday.

"This race is sure to be one of the toughest Republican re-election campaigns across the country," Cravaack wrote. "In fact, it's a guarantee."

Campaign finance reports filed this month showed that of Cravaack's DFL challengers, Tarryl Clark, raised more money than him during the first three months of the year, which is rare during election years. Clark raised $320,000 while Cravaack brought in about $246,000, although he does still have an overall fundraising lead. Of Cravaack's other two challengers, former U.S. Rep. Rick Nolan raised almost $77,000 and Duluth City Council member Jeff Anderson brought in $38,000.

Democrats need to unseat 25 Republicans to reclaim the majority in the House and the Eighth District race is one they believe win. The party's campaign arm, the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee, has added Cravaack to their "Red to Blue" list, an indication that donors from across will pour money into the race. Before Cravaack defeated former Rep. Jim Oberstar in 2010, a Democrat had represented the district for more than 60 years.

"Democrats are furious," Cravaack wrote, "and the national battle will be fought right here in Minnesota."