The influential women’s political group EMILY’S List put Shaughnessy Naughton “On the List” Tuesday, providing her access to the powerful organization’s supporters and donors. The designation provides the first step to an official endorsement.

“Throughout this race I’ve sought to prioritize important progressive values, so I’m proud

to have the backing of Emily’s List because it means that people are really starting to take notice,” Naughton said. “I’m running for Congress because I know that we need to turn our country in a better direction, and I am thrilled to have the support of Emily’s List to get the job done.”

Naughton attended several of the organization’s candidate training sessions earlier this year.

“With her unique background as both a scientist and successful small business owner in a tough economic climate, Shaughnessy will tirelessly work on commonsense solutions to the challenges facing women and families,” said EMILY’s List President Stephanie Schriock. “The EMILY’s List community – now three million members strong – is excited to help her break a glass ceiling and become the first woman elected to represent Pennsylvania’s Eighth Congressional District.”

Republican Mike Fitzpatrick (R-Bucks) currently holds the seat. Despite winning by 8% in 2010 and 13% in 2012, he is Democrats’ top target in Pa. in 2014.

The 8th district race is out of the ordinary because it pits Emily’s List against the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee (DCCC).

Emily’s List candidates frequently overlap with DCCC candidates, as they’re both D.C. establishment organizations designed to defeat Republicans.

In the race for PA-8, the DCCC has another candidate: Kevin Strouse. A veteran and former CIA officer, Strouse has received campaign contributions from several high-ranking House Democrats including Nancy Pelosi.

The Emily’s List announcement is a positive step for Naughton although she hasn’t won the full weight of the group quite yet.

Candidates who are “On the List” get access to donors and exposure to Emily’s List supporters. Emily’s List created a page on its website to introduce the candidate to potential donors.

But it’s not technically an endorsement and doesn’t come with a direct contribution. If the group sees Naughton progressing at a good pace in fundraising and organizing, it will make a full endorsement.