The National Republican Congressional Committee said today that Honolulu city councilman Charles Djou has gained ‘contender’ status in its Young Guns recruitment program.

Djou will seek the U.S. House seat that will be vacated by Democrat Neil Abercrombie at the end of the month.
Democrats Ed Case and Colleen Hanabusa also have launched campaigns.
“ ‘Contender’ status is the second step in the three-level program, with Djou now facing a new set of benchmarks to reach ‘Young Gun’ status in his bid for Hawaii’s 1st Congressional District,” the NRCC said.
“ ... While already having completed certain steps to place him on the road to victory, Djou now faces a new set of rigorous benchmarks that will elevate him to the top level of the Young Guns program and help him build an effective, winning campaign.”