Colorado voters elected a 29-year-old democratic socialist, Melat Kiros, over Rep. Diana DeGette, a 30-year incumbent. The move marks a significant shift in the state’s Democratic politics.
Kiros won the Democratic primary for Colorado’s 1st District. This victory signals the end of DeGette’s long tenure, who had represented the district since 1997.
DeGette, 68, was first elected to Congress in 1996. She built a reputation as one of the House’s more liberal members. DeGette backed policies including Medicare for All and served as an impeachment manager during President Donald Trump’s second Senate impeachment trial.
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Despite her progressive stances, Kiros argued voters wanted a more confrontational approach. Kiros, who is a lawyer and the daughter of Ethiopian immigrants, received endorsements from figures like Sen. Bernie Sanders and organizations such as the Democratic Socialists of America. Her campaign focused on affordability, universal health care, labor issues and U.S. policy toward Israel.
The war in Gaza became a central issue in the race. Kiros called for an immediate and unconditional arms embargo on Israel. This stance was part of her broader criticism of U.S. Middle East policy and the Israeli government, that some supporters endorsed.
Kiros’ victory reflects a broader trend. Progressive candidates have been winning primaries across the country, challenging established Democratic incumbents. This pattern continued in Colorado.
The primary also featured other notable results. Colorado Attorney General Phil Weiser defeated Sen. Michael Bennet for the Democratic nomination for governor. Sen. John Hickenlooper secured renomination despite a challenge from the left. In the state’s competitive 8th District, state Rep. Manny Rutinel won the Democratic primary to face Republican Rep. Gabe Evans in November.
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In Colorado, voters chose Kiros over DeGette after three decades. The primary results reflect broader trends in Democratic politics. Colorado voters opted for change, selecting a progressive challenger over an established incumbent. Kiros’ victory highlights a shift within the state’s Democratic electorate, as the district will see a new representative. Kiros will bring her progressive agenda to Washington, representing the district’s voters. The move by Coloradans to end DeGette’s long tenure highlights this shift.
Kiros described Hamas’ Oct. 7, 2023, attack on Israel as “the inevitable consequence of apartheid.” The candidate also declined in a television interview to characterize a firebombing attack targeting demonstrators supporting Israeli hostages in Boulder as antisemitic. DeGette’s campaign and outside groups highlighted these remarks in television advertising during the closing weeks of the campaign.
The choice of Kiros over DeGette is a clear example of this trend. The 29-year-old’s victory marks the end of a political era in Colorado.
