By Alex Brown

The Chronicle

In the likely lead-up to another congressional run, Carolyn Long has scheduled three “exciting announcement” rallies Monday in Southwest Washington — including one in Centralia.

Long will speak at 11 a.m. at the Centralia Timberland Library, followed by rallies in Longview and Vancouver.

“I have an announcement that I will be sharing on July 8th!” reads Long’s Facebook page announcement of the event. “I’m thrilled to have some exciting special guests with me. Hope to see you there!”

The Washington State University, Vancouver professor challenged Rep. Jaime Herrera Beutler, R-Battle Ground, in the 2018 campaign, coming up short by a 53 to 47 percent margin. Long’s race drew national attention, as she brought in more fundraising money than Herrera Beutler and gave the incumbent her first serious challenge since her initial run for the seat.

Earlier this spring, Democrat Peter Khalil, a professional mediator from Vancouver, launched his own entry into the race, running on a progressive platform — a contrast with Long’s more moderate views. It’s unclear if Long’s early entry into the race — she announced her 2018 candidacy in December of 2017 — was prompted by Khalil’s head start.

Despite the Democrats lining up to challenge her, and the tough campaign last cycle, Herrera Beutler is confident in her chances.

“Jaime will run on her track record of solving problems, from job creation to

affordable health care to salmon recovery,” said campaign spokeswoman Angeline Riesterer. “We’re confident that Southwest Washington voters will look at Jaime’s long list of positive accomplishments and see fit to return her to office.”

So far, Long’s campaign committee has not reported raising any money in the first quarter of the year. Herrera Beutler has more than $250,000 in the bank, while Long has $11,000 remaining. Khalil’s campaign did not report any data during the first quarter of the year.

Long’s campaign declined to comment on the record about the announcement rally.