politics
Anti-establishment candidates defeat incumbents in Colorado Democratic primaries
Voters in Colorado's Democratic primaries backed several challengers over long-serving officeholders on Tuesday. Results showed wins for candidates aligned with the Democratic Socialists of America in Denver and the 8th Congressional District.
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Democratic primary voters in Colorado on Tuesday rejected multiple incumbents in favor of challengers backed by progressive and socialist-aligned groups. In the 1st Congressional District, 29-year-old Melat Kiros defeated 15-term Rep. Diana DeGette by a 51.3% to 41.7% margin. Kiros received support from Sen. Bernie Sanders.
Denver-area results Amanda Gonzalez, backed by the local Democratic Socialists of America chapter, won the Democratic nomination for secretary of state with 63.5% of the vote against state Sen. Jessie Danielson. Attorney General Phil Weiser defeated Sen. Michael Bennet 55.7% to 44.3% in the Democratic primary for governor.
Congressional district contests State Rep.
Manny Rutinel defeated former state Rep. Shannon Bird in the 8th Congressional District primary. Rutinel will face Rep. Gabe Evans in November. In the 5th Congressional District, Jessica Killin won the Democratic nomination after signing a centrist principles document. Killin previously served as chief of staff to former second gentleman Doug Emhoff.
