'Pink wave' candidates hoping to crash red states: 'Powerhouse Politics'

One is the first woman to fly an F/A-18 on a combat mission for the Marine Corps. The other is a former Miss America who traveled the country advocating for children. And both are "pink wave" Democrats challenging GOP incumbents in "red" states in the 2018 midterm elections.

“I think as women, we have sort of woken up a little bit,” Lt. Col. Amy McGrath said on ABC News’ "Powerhouse Politics" podcast with political director Rick Klein and senior congressional correspondent Mary Bruce. McGrath is running in Kentucky’s 6th Congressional District against Republican Rep. Andy Barr — who will have Vice President Mike Pence campaigning at his side this week.

“The reason why we have 19 percent women in places like Congress is because we don’t run at the same rate as men. And I think one of the things we‘re starting to realize is we have to step into the arena,” McGrath said.

“When I looked at Congress and saw that there were only four women under the age of 40, I said you know maybe this is the time, even if I don't win — which I am planning on doing — but even if I don’t, I’m setting an example and inspiring some other people who are in my age range to get involved in their community,” Hagan said.

This is part of a continuing series of interviews on the “Powerhouse Politics” podcast with first-time candidates in the 2018 midterm elections.