Skip to main content
Colorado Working Families Party

Colorado Working Families Party Endorsements

The Working Families Party is a grassroots, multiracial party of working people coming together across our differences to make our nation work for the many, not the few. We’re electing the next generation of transformational leaders and building durable, independent progressive power in communities across the country.

5th Congressional District

Depending on where you live, you may have one of the below congressional districts on your ballot.

River Gassen is the Democratic candidate running for Congress in Colorado's 5th Congressional District. Gassen is a graduate of the University of Colorado at Colorado Springs, currently teaching in the astronomy department. Gassen is a researcher working with the CU BioFrontiers Institute, "a unique interdisciplinary community of scientists driven by the mission of improving global health and welfare through collaborative, boundary-pushing bioscience."

Gassen is running for Congress to protect reproductive rights, essential programs like food assistance and Medicaid, and remediating the effects of human-caused climate change. Gassen offers leadership from a STEM educational background and making the American dream of affordable housing and access to health care a reality for everyone in Colorado's 5th District.

Gassen's opponent, right-wing talk radio host and longtime operative for the billionaire-funded conservative group Americans For Prosperity, Jeff Crank, was recently endorsed by ex-President Donald Trump after defeating the previously Trump-endorsed candidate Dave Williams in the Republican primary. Before that endorsement, Crank was fiercely opposed by MAGA Colorado Republicans over his support for Nikki Haley in the Republican presidential race. Crank's employer Americans for Prosperity said that Trump will "do irreparable damage to the country" if elected President again.

River Gassen is the clear champion for progressive values in the 5th Congressional District.

River Gassen is the Democratic candidate running for Congress in Colorado's 5th Congressional District. Gassen is a graduate of the University of Colorado at Colorado Springs, currently teaching in the astronomy department. Gassen is a researcher working with the CU BioFrontiers Institute, "a unique interdisciplinary community of scientists driven by the mission of improving global health and welfare through collaborative, boundary-pushing bioscience."

Gassen is running for Congress to protect reproductive rights, essential programs like food assistance and Medicaid, and remediating the effects of human-caused climate change. Gassen offers leadership from a STEM educational background and making the American dream of affordable housing and access to health care a reality for everyone in Colorado's 5th District.

Gassen's opponent, right-wing talk radio host and longtime operative for the billionaire-funded conservative group Americans For Prosperity, Jeff Crank, was recently endorsed by ex-President Donald Trump after defeating the previously Trump-endorsed candidate Dave Williams in the Republican primary. Before that endorsement, Crank was fiercely opposed by MAGA Colorado Republicans over his support for Nikki Haley in the Republican presidential race. Crank's employer Americans for Prosperity said that Trump will "do irreparable damage to the country" if elected President again.

River Gassen is the clear champion for progressive values in the 5th Congressional District.

State Board of Education

Depending on where you live, you may have one of the below board of education races on your ballot.

Board of Education, 2nd Congressional District

Kathy Gebhardt is a Democrat running for the Colorado State Board of Education to represent Colorado's 2nd Congressional District. Gebhardt currently teaches education law at the Sturm College of Law at the University of Denver. Gebhardt formerly served on the Boulder Valley School District Board of Education, District C, and served for 8 years on the Board of Directors for the Colorado Association of School Boards. Gebhardt is running to support public education and improve school finance.

Gebhardt faces only a write-in Libertarian opponent, Ethan Augreen.

Kathy Gebhardt is the clear choice to represent the 2nd Congressional District on the Colorado State Board of Education.

Kathy Gebhardt is a Democrat running for the Colorado State Board of Education to represent Colorado's 2nd Congressional District. Gebhardt currently teaches education law at the Sturm College of Law at the University of Denver. Gebhardt formerly served on the Boulder Valley School District Board of Education, District C, and served for 8 years on the Board of Directors for the Colorado Association of School Boards. Gebhardt is running to support public education and improve school finance.

Gebhardt faces only a write-in Libertarian opponent, Ethan Augreen.

Kathy Gebhardt is the clear choice to represent the 2nd Congressional District on the Colorado State Board of Education.

Board of Education, 8th Congressional District

Rhonda Solis is the Democratic incumbent running for re-election to the Colorado State Board of Education representing Colorado's 8th Congressional District. Solis formerly served on the Greeley-Evans Board of Education, is a graduate of Greeley West High School, and co-founded the Latino Coalition of Weld County. Solis served as a Court Appointed Special Advocate in Weld County. Solis is running to protect and invest in Colorado's public schools.

Solis' Republican opponent, Yazmin Navarro of Johnstown, is a graduate of the ideologically conservative Grand Canyon University, and is running on an platform of "expanded school choice," and is endorsed by the far-right incumbent members of the State Board of Education who support funding private religious schools at the expense of public education.

Rhonda Solis has a solid record of advocacy for Colorado's public schools and students and should be re-elected to represent the 8th Congressional District on the Colorado State Board of Education.

Rhonda Solis is the Democratic incumbent running for re-election to the Colorado State Board of Education representing Colorado's 8th Congressional District. Solis formerly served on the Greeley-Evans Board of Education, is a graduate of Greeley West High School, and co-founded the Latino Coalition of Weld County. Solis served as a Court Appointed Special Advocate in Weld County. Solis is running to protect and invest in Colorado's public schools.

Solis' Republican opponent, Yazmin Navarro of Johnstown, is a graduate of the ideologically conservative Grand Canyon University, and is running on an platform of "expanded school choice," and is endorsed by the far-right incumbent members of the State Board of Education who support funding private religious schools at the expense of public education.

Rhonda Solis has a solid record of advocacy for Colorado's public schools and students and should be re-elected to represent the 8th Congressional District on the Colorado State Board of Education.

State Senate

Depending on where you live, you may have one of the below State Senate races on your ballot.

Senator, District 6

Vivian Smotherman is running for Colorado's 6th Senate District. She is a Navy veteran, former farmer, and oil field worker.

Smotherman's priorities include addressing the housing crisis, improving rural healthcare access, and public education. As a former farmer herself, Smotherman is committed to sustainable agricultural growth. Smotherman has pledged to champion abortion rights and protect access to reproductive care in the legislature. Smotherman would make history as the first openly trans legislator in the Colorado Senate.

Anti-abortion former coal miner Republican Senator Cleave Simpson is running for re-election in Colorado Senate District 6. Simpson voted against capping the consumer price for insulin despite a high rate of diabetes in Senate District 6, and later voted against capping the price of EpiPens. Simpson also voted against numerous wildfire prevention bills.

Vivian Smotherman would bring progressive values and
diverse experience essential to representing Senate District 6.

Vivian Smotherman is running for Colorado's 6th Senate District. She is a Navy veteran, former farmer, and oil field worker.

Smotherman's priorities include addressing the housing crisis, improving rural healthcare access, and public education. As a former farmer herself, Smotherman is committed to sustainable agricultural growth. Smotherman has pledged to champion abortion rights and protect access to reproductive care in the legislature. Smotherman would make history as the first openly trans legislator in the Colorado Senate.

Anti-abortion former coal miner Republican Senator Cleave Simpson is running for re-election in Colorado Senate District 6. Simpson voted against capping the consumer price for insulin despite a high rate of diabetes in Senate District 6, and later voted against capping the price of EpiPens. Simpson also voted against numerous wildfire prevention bills.

Vivian Smotherman would bring progressive values and
diverse experience essential to representing Senate District 6.

Senator, District 10

Ryan Lucas (Democrat) is running for Senate District 10. Lucas is running to protect access to healthcare and protect everyday people from the misuse of artificial intelligence technology. Lucas is endorsed by the Working Families Party, recognizing his dedication to fighting for economic equality and people-first progressive policies.

Lucas is running against incumbent, Republican Larry Liston. Liston is an extreme Second Amendment conservative who supports oil and gas industry and extreme law enforcement tactics.

Also running is Libertarian John C. Hjersman.

Ryan Lucas is the progressive choice for District 10.

Ryan Lucas (Democrat) is running for Senate District 10. Lucas is running to protect access to healthcare and protect everyday people from the misuse of artificial intelligence technology. Lucas is endorsed by the Working Families Party, recognizing his dedication to fighting for economic equality and people-first progressive policies.

Lucas is running against incumbent, Republican Larry Liston. Liston is an extreme Second Amendment conservative who supports oil and gas industry and extreme law enforcement tactics.

Also running is Libertarian John C. Hjersman.

Ryan Lucas is the progressive choice for District 10.

Senator, District 28

Representative Mike Weissman is running for Senate District 28. Rep. Weissman has served House District 36 since 2016. Weissman serves as chair of the Colorado House Judiciary Committee and the Committee on Legal Services.

Weissman is a proven, dedicated legislator who has tirelessly led the way on economic and housing justice, fighting climate change, protecting public education, and reforms to the criminal justice system. He has worked to fight human trafficking to rent price gouging.

Republican, Pedro Espinoza, a conservative law enforcement professional, who opposes gender affirming care and other reproductive freedoms, is also running. Espinoza espouses the extreme anti-immigrant rhetoric of the Colorado Republican party.

Representative Mike Weismann is the clear progressive running for Senate District 28.

Representative Mike Weissman is running for Senate District 28. Rep. Weissman has served House District 36 since 2016. Weissman serves as chair of the Colorado House Judiciary Committee and the Committee on Legal Services.

Weissman is a proven, dedicated legislator who has tirelessly led the way on economic and housing justice, fighting climate change, protecting public education, and reforms to the criminal justice system. He has worked to fight human trafficking to rent price gouging.

Republican, Pedro Espinoza, a conservative law enforcement professional, who opposes gender affirming care and other reproductive freedoms, is also running. Espinoza espouses the extreme anti-immigrant rhetoric of the Colorado Republican party.

Representative Mike Weismann is the clear progressive running for Senate District 28.

State House

Depending on where you live, you may have one of the below State House races on your ballot.

Representative, District 1

Welcome to the 1st House District Progressive Voters Guide! 

Rep. Javier Mabrey is seeking reelection as State Representative for Colorado House District 1. Prior to serving in the legislature, Mabrey worked as an eviction defense attorney and progressive advocate. Raised by a single mother in Southwest Denver, he has been devoted to keeping Coloradans housed. During the pandemic, Mabrey founded the COVID Eviction Defense Fund, providing hundreds of families with eviction prevention services and legal aid.

In the legislature, Mabrey has been a committed leader, working to expand access to affordable health care, fighting for affordable housing, climate justice, criminal justice reform, and reproductive rights. He has also led efforts to improve public education funding and economic security for Colorado's working families. Mabrey sponsored and passed legislation to lower prescription drug costs and increase access to restorative justice.

Representative Javier Mabrey is running unopposed and is considered the progressive champion for House District 1.

Rep. Javier Mabrey is seeking reelection as State Representative for Colorado House District 1. Prior to serving in the legislature, Mabrey worked as an eviction defense attorney and progressive advocate. Raised by a single mother in Southwest Denver, he has been devoted to keeping Coloradans housed. During the pandemic, Mabrey founded the COVID Eviction Defense Fund, providing hundreds of families with eviction prevention services and legal aid.

In the legislature, Mabrey has been a committed leader, working to expand access to affordable health care, fighting for affordable housing, climate justice, criminal justice reform, and reproductive rights. He has also led efforts to improve public education funding and economic security for Colorado's working families. Mabrey sponsored and passed legislation to lower prescription drug costs and increase access to restorative justice.

Representative Javier Mabrey is running unopposed and is considered the progressive champion for House District 1.

Representative, District 9

Rep. Emily Sirota is seeking re-election to represent House District 9. Before joining the legislature in 2018, Rep. Sirota helped run an early learning center and worked for the Colorado Progressive Coalition where she organized support for paid sick leave policy.

Rep. Sirota has championed state funding for the Child Tax Credit and increasing the Earned Income Tax Credit. She helped pass universal pre-k, gave relief to working families, mandated the teaching of the Holocaust and genocide in public schools, and had Colorado join the National Popular Vote Compact. Rep. Sirota also carried a bill for a task force to analyze how much money Colorado could save by going to a health-care-for-all system. She recently sponsored a bill to incentivize healthy food options.

Opposing Rep. Sirota is Republican Tom Cowhick.

Rep. Sirota is the clear progressive candidate for House District 9.

Rep. Emily Sirota is seeking re-election to represent House District 9. Before joining the legislature in 2018, Rep. Sirota helped run an early learning center and worked for the Colorado Progressive Coalition where she organized support for paid sick leave policy.

Rep. Sirota has championed state funding for the Child Tax Credit and increasing the Earned Income Tax Credit. She helped pass universal pre-k, gave relief to working families, mandated the teaching of the Holocaust and genocide in public schools, and had Colorado join the National Popular Vote Compact. Rep. Sirota also carried a bill for a task force to analyze how much money Colorado could save by going to a health-care-for-all system. She recently sponsored a bill to incentivize healthy food options.

Opposing Rep. Sirota is Republican Tom Cowhick.

Rep. Sirota is the clear progressive candidate for House District 9.

Representative, District 10

Rep. Junie Joseph is seeking reelection to House District 10. Rep. Joseph is an attorney and Haitian immigrant. She is a champion for reproductive justice, gun safety, LGBTQ+ rights, affordable housing, and economic stability. Rep. Joseph has sponsored bills for equal representation in courts, employee protections, and rights for youths in facilities operated by the Division of Youth Services.

Rep. Joseph is running against Republican William B. DeOreo. An oil and gas candidate, DeOreo is also opposed to protections against "identity-based discrimination."

Rep. Joseph is the progressive legislator for House District 10.

Rep. Junie Joseph is seeking reelection to House District 10. Rep. Joseph is an attorney and Haitian immigrant. She is a champion for reproductive justice, gun safety, LGBTQ+ rights, affordable housing, and economic stability. Rep. Joseph has sponsored bills for equal representation in courts, employee protections, and rights for youths in facilities operated by the Division of Youth Services.

Rep. Joseph is running against Republican William B. DeOreo. An oil and gas candidate, DeOreo is also opposed to protections against "identity-based discrimination."

Rep. Joseph is the progressive legislator for House District 10.

Representative, District 16

Rep. Stephanie Vigil is running for reelection for Colorado House District 16. Rep. Vigil has experienced poverty, child abuse, and disability which served as a catalyst for her to run for office. Therefore, Rep. Vigil has prioritized climate and energy, education, and housing as some of her key issues. Rep. Vigil has sponsored and supported legislation for “Greenhouse Gas Pollution Reduction” road map, getting Colorado teachers fair wages and resources, and forwarding legislation that will level the power between renters and landlords. Rep. Vigil was a major proponent of successful legislation promoting transparency and fairness for rideshare and delivery drivers.

Rep. Vigil has sponsored bills to support veterans, the use of chosen names for LGBTQ+ youth, public school funding, and access to reproductive healthcare. Rep. Vigil has proven to support and amplify some of the key issues identified by many progressive voters.

Opposing Rep. Vigil is challenger Republican, Rebecca Keltie. Keltie believes in expanding the size and power of ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement), weakening Colorado's gun safety laws, and undermining public education through diversion of funds away from neighborhood schools.

Rep. Stephanie Vigil has proven to be a progressive leader for District 16.

Rep. Stephanie Vigil is running for reelection for Colorado House District 16. Rep. Vigil has experienced poverty, child abuse, and disability which served as a catalyst for her to run for office. Therefore, Rep. Vigil has prioritized climate and energy, education, and housing as some of her key issues. Rep. Vigil has sponsored and supported legislation for “Greenhouse Gas Pollution Reduction” road map, getting Colorado teachers fair wages and resources, and forwarding legislation that will level the power between renters and landlords. Rep. Vigil was a major proponent of successful legislation promoting transparency and fairness for rideshare and delivery drivers.

Rep. Vigil has sponsored bills to support veterans, the use of chosen names for LGBTQ+ youth, public school funding, and access to reproductive healthcare. Rep. Vigil has proven to support and amplify some of the key issues identified by many progressive voters.

Opposing Rep. Vigil is challenger Republican, Rebecca Keltie. Keltie believes in expanding the size and power of ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement), weakening Colorado's gun safety laws, and undermining public education through diversion of funds away from neighborhood schools.

Rep. Stephanie Vigil has proven to be a progressive leader for District 16.

Representative, District 18

Amy T. Paschal is running for House District 18. Paschal is a software engineer and mother of two. Paschal is running to increase the affordability and accessibility of healthcare in the United States and stop medical bankruptcy. She is also seeking economic justice solutions that serve working Coloradans. Paschal is committed to advancing reproductive freedom, education funding, and developing infrastructure in Colorado. She is a Gun Sense Candidate endorsed by Moms Demand Action.

Republican, James R. Boelens Jr. is also running. He opposes large scale infrastructure projects such as highways expansions.

Amy Paschal is the progressive voice for House District 18.

Amy T. Paschal is running for House District 18. Paschal is a software engineer and mother of two. Paschal is running to increase the affordability and accessibility of healthcare in the United States and stop medical bankruptcy. She is also seeking economic justice solutions that serve working Coloradans. Paschal is committed to advancing reproductive freedom, education funding, and developing infrastructure in Colorado. She is a Gun Sense Candidate endorsed by Moms Demand Action.

Republican, James R. Boelens Jr. is also running. He opposes large scale infrastructure projects such as highways expansions.

Amy Paschal is the progressive voice for House District 18.

Representative, District 21

Welcome to the 21st House District Progressive Voters Guide!

Running for House District 21 is challenger Liz Rosenbaum. Rosenbaum has lived in the Fountain Valley for over 20 years after being brought to the area through her husband's enlistment in the US Army. Rosenbaum has a long history of fighting for clean water and founded the Fountain Valley Clean Water Coalition in 2016 to ensure transparency about water safety and contamination.

Rosenbaum will bring her fierce advocacy for clean and safe drinking water to the state capitol and help the voices of her rural community be heard. She understands the need to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, invest in solar and wind energy, and the need to address food and hospital deserts in Colorado. Rosenbaum worked as the Regional Organizer for Cobalt Advocates, securing signatures in support of the Colorado constitution recognizing the right to abortion (Prop 89).

Rosenbaum is running to unseat pro-gun Representative Mary Bradfield. Bradfield is an extreme conservative more concerned about fighting against gender neutral language, abortion rights, and assault weapons legislation than she is about safe drinking water for her district.

Liz Rosenbaum is the progressive choice for House District 21.

Running for House District 21 is challenger Liz Rosenbaum. Rosenbaum has lived in the Fountain Valley for over 20 years after being brought to the area through her husband's enlistment in the US Army. Rosenbaum has a long history of fighting for clean water and founded the Fountain Valley Clean Water Coalition in 2016 to ensure transparency about water safety and contamination.

Rosenbaum will bring her fierce advocacy for clean and safe drinking water to the state capitol and help the voices of her rural community be heard. She understands the need to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, invest in solar and wind energy, and the need to address food and hospital deserts in Colorado. Rosenbaum worked as the Regional Organizer for Cobalt Advocates, securing signatures in support of the Colorado constitution recognizing the right to abortion (Prop 89).

Rosenbaum is running to unseat pro-gun Representative Mary Bradfield. Bradfield is an extreme conservative more concerned about fighting against gender neutral language, abortion rights, and assault weapons legislation than she is about safe drinking water for her district.

Liz Rosenbaum is the progressive choice for House District 21.

Representative, District 25

Rep. Tammy Story is running for reelection to House District 25. Rep. Story has been a dedicated advocate for public safety, public education, and health care throughout her tenure at the legislature.

Rep. Story has passed legislation to make higher education more accessible by fortifying the Colorado Opportunity Scholarship initiative and supported legislation to train a workforce for the energy sector. She also sponsored legislation to increase law enforcement accountability and to prevent the use of excessive force by police officers.

George B. Mumma Jr. is the Republican running against Representative Story. Mumma is an anti-tax, pro-voucher candidate who believes that suicide hotline operators are "grooming children" when they discuss matters of LGBTQ+ issues without parental involvement.

Rep. Tammy Story has the track record of helping Coloradans move forward. She is the clear progressive choice for House District 25.

Rep. Tammy Story is running for reelection to House District 25. Rep. Story has been a dedicated advocate for public safety, public education, and health care throughout her tenure at the legislature.

Rep. Story has passed legislation to make higher education more accessible by fortifying the Colorado Opportunity Scholarship initiative and supported legislation to train a workforce for the energy sector. She also sponsored legislation to increase law enforcement accountability and to prevent the use of excessive force by police officers.

George B. Mumma Jr. is the Republican running against Representative Story. Mumma is an anti-tax, pro-voucher candidate who believes that suicide hotline operators are "grooming children" when they discuss matters of LGBTQ+ issues without parental involvement.

Rep. Tammy Story has the track record of helping Coloradans move forward. She is the clear progressive choice for House District 25.

Representative, District 32

Rep. Manny Rutinel is running for reelection in House District 32. Rep. Rutinel is a strong progressive and is running unopposed. He has sponsored legislation to support communities disproportionately affected by poor air quality, loan forgiveness, and accessibility to meetings held by local public bodies. He stands in support of reproductive rights and diversity, equity, and inclusion regardless of race, sex, age, religion, disability, nationality, sexual orientation, or gender identity.

Rep. Manny Rutinel is running for reelection in House District 32. Rep. Rutinel is a strong progressive and is running unopposed. He has sponsored legislation to support communities disproportionately affected by poor air quality, loan forgiveness, and accessibility to meetings held by local public bodies. He stands in support of reproductive rights and diversity, equity, and inclusion regardless of race, sex, age, religion, disability, nationality, sexual orientation, or gender identity.

Representative, District 34

Rep. Jenny Willford is seeking reelection in House District 34. The former Mayor Pro Tem of Northglenn, Willford worked to provide family leave benefits to municipal employees while promoting affordable housing and addressing the threat of climate change. Prior to her election to the General Assembly, Rep. Willford was the Executive Director of Emerge Colorado, an organization dedicated to promoting women in elected office.

As a State Representative, Rep. Willford supported legislation to require permits for activities that impact air quality, provided access to child care assistance, and free menstrual products for students.

Pro-gun, anti- immigration, and TABOR expansionist, Craig Sullivan is the Republican running for House District 34. Sullivan supports gun ownership, immigration restrictions, Also running for the HD34 seat are Alexander "Skinny" Winkler of the Center Party and Mark Bromley who is unaffiliated.

Rep. Willford is the progressive leader running for House District 34.

Rep. Jenny Willford is seeking reelection in House District 34. The former Mayor Pro Tem of Northglenn, Willford worked to provide family leave benefits to municipal employees while promoting affordable housing and addressing the threat of climate change. Prior to her election to the General Assembly, Rep. Willford was the Executive Director of Emerge Colorado, an organization dedicated to promoting women in elected office.

As a State Representative, Rep. Willford supported legislation to require permits for activities that impact air quality, provided access to child care assistance, and free menstrual products for students.

Pro-gun, anti- immigration, and TABOR expansionist, Craig Sullivan is the Republican running for House District 34. Sullivan supports gun ownership, immigration restrictions, Also running for the HD34 seat are Alexander "Skinny" Winkler of the Center Party and Mark Bromley who is unaffiliated.

Rep. Willford is the progressive leader running for House District 34.

Representative, District 35

Rep. Lorena Garcia is seeking reelection to Colorado House District 35. Garcia is a long-time nonprofit leader - who continues her work in organization for marginalized communities and standing up for working Colorado families. She is dedicated to celebrating diversity, increasing public school funding from pre-K to higher ed, and strengthening the economy. Rep. Garcia is a 7th generation Coloradan and understands the struggles faced by working Coloradans. She has helped lead the way on renewable energy initiatives and reproductive justice protections.

Rep. Garcia has also sponsored legislation to support birth equity in correctional facilities, integration programs for migrants, and protections for name changes to align with one's gender identity. She is a progressive champion for all Coloradans.

Republican, Lee Knoll is opposing Rep. Garcia, and does not have any public platform information.

Rep. Lorena Garcia is the progressive choice for House District 35.

Rep. Lorena Garcia is seeking reelection to Colorado House District 35. Garcia is a long-time nonprofit leader - who continues her work in organization for marginalized communities and standing up for working Colorado families. She is dedicated to celebrating diversity, increasing public school funding from pre-K to higher ed, and strengthening the economy. Rep. Garcia is a 7th generation Coloradan and understands the struggles faced by working Coloradans. She has helped lead the way on renewable energy initiatives and reproductive justice protections.

Rep. Garcia has also sponsored legislation to support birth equity in correctional facilities, integration programs for migrants, and protections for name changes to align with one's gender identity. She is a progressive champion for all Coloradans.

Republican, Lee Knoll is opposing Rep. Garcia, and does not have any public platform information.

Rep. Lorena Garcia is the progressive choice for House District 35.

Representative, District 41

Incumbent Rep. Iman Jodeh has represented Colorado House District 41 since 2020. Rep. Jodeh is the first Muslim ever elected to the Colorado General Assembly. Prior to winning election in 2020, Rep. Jodeh served as community liaison for the Interfaith Alliance of Colorado. She serves on the House Appropriations and Public & Behavioral Health Committees. The Council of State Governments chose Rep. Jodeh as one of the “20 Under 40” elected officials whose careers in public service show promise.

Rep. Jodeh's Republican opponent, Rob McKenna, has no experience in elective office and little information available other than having signed the U.S. Term Limits pledge to support congressional term limits, which already apply to members of the Colorado General Assembly.

Rep. Jodeh is the clear progressive choice to represent Colorado House District 41.

Incumbent Rep. Iman Jodeh has represented Colorado House District 41 since 2020. Rep. Jodeh is the first Muslim ever elected to the Colorado General Assembly. Prior to winning election in 2020, Rep. Jodeh served as community liaison for the Interfaith Alliance of Colorado. She serves on the House Appropriations and Public & Behavioral Health Committees. The Council of State Governments chose Rep. Jodeh as one of the “20 Under 40” elected officials whose careers in public service show promise.

Rep. Jodeh's Republican opponent, Rob McKenna, has no experience in elective office and little information available other than having signed the U.S. Term Limits pledge to support congressional term limits, which already apply to members of the Colorado General Assembly.

Rep. Jodeh is the clear progressive choice to represent Colorado House District 41.

Representative, District 46

Pueblo native, Rep. Tisha Mauro, is running for reelection to Colorado House District 46. Rep. Mauro was raised on a farm near Boone, graduated from Pueblo County High School and from Colorado State University-Pueblo, and has been in the auto industry for 20 years as a finance manager and sales manager. Rep. Mauro seeks to fight for working families by creating better jobs, addressing public safety, protecting Colorado water, and investing in Colorado highways and roads. Rep. Mauro will continue her advocacy for laborers, having sponsored laws on towing carrier regulations and railroad safety requirements in the House of Representatives. Rep. Mauro is a supporter of reproductive rights and environmental protections.

Rocky Mountain Gun Owners candidate (“Pro 2A all day, everyday!”), Kim Swearington is challenging Representative Tisha Mauro. Swearington is also an anti-LGBTQIA+ candidate.

Rep. Tisha Mauro is the progressive candidate for Colorado House District 46.

Pueblo native, Rep. Tisha Mauro, is running for reelection to Colorado House District 46. Rep. Mauro was raised on a farm near Boone, graduated from Pueblo County High School and from Colorado State University-Pueblo, and has been in the auto industry for 20 years as a finance manager and sales manager. Rep. Mauro seeks to fight for working families by creating better jobs, addressing public safety, protecting Colorado water, and investing in Colorado highways and roads. Rep. Mauro will continue her advocacy for laborers, having sponsored laws on towing carrier regulations and railroad safety requirements in the House of Representatives. Rep. Mauro is a supporter of reproductive rights and environmental protections.

Rocky Mountain Gun Owners candidate (“Pro 2A all day, everyday!”), Kim Swearington is challenging Representative Tisha Mauro. Swearington is also an anti-LGBTQIA+ candidate.

Rep. Tisha Mauro is the progressive candidate for Colorado House District 46.

Representative, District 51

Sarah McKeen is running for House District 51. McKeen is a Social Worker and CSU Graduate living and working in Loveland with a passion for social advocacy. She has served on the Loveland Planning Commission for the past 4 years and volunteers on the Larimer County Behavioral Health Committee. McKeen seeks to increase government and economic support for education, childcare, and senior citizens. She also believes in the need for environmental protections and climate action through renewable energy. McKeen supports laborers in conjunction with each of these issues acknowledging that “Supporting worker's rights also supports affordable & accessible housing, healthcare, childcare, and more.”

McKeen is challenging incumbent Ron Weinberg. Weinberg is a pro-militia, anti-abortion, TABOR (tax payers bill of rights) enthusiast who opposes the expansion of renewable energy in Colorado.

Sarah McKeen is the progressive running in House District 51.

Sarah McKeen is running for House District 51. McKeen is a Social Worker and CSU Graduate living and working in Loveland with a passion for social advocacy. She has served on the Loveland Planning Commission for the past 4 years and volunteers on the Larimer County Behavioral Health Committee. McKeen seeks to increase government and economic support for education, childcare, and senior citizens. She also believes in the need for environmental protections and climate action through renewable energy. McKeen supports laborers in conjunction with each of these issues acknowledging that “Supporting worker's rights also supports affordable & accessible housing, healthcare, childcare, and more.”

McKeen is challenging incumbent Ron Weinberg. Weinberg is a pro-militia, anti-abortion, TABOR (tax payers bill of rights) enthusiast who opposes the expansion of renewable energy in Colorado.

Sarah McKeen is the progressive running in House District 51.

Representative, District 52

Yara Zokaie is running to represent Colorado House District 52. Zokaie is a tax professional who has advocated for small businesses and now works as the Chief Deputy Assessor for Larimer County. She is a first generation Iranian American who knows the struggles of working families. As an activist, Zokaie worked with local moms and legislators to bring the importance of paid parental leave into the public eye.

Zokaie understands the harm that TABOR (Taxpayer Bill of Rights) has done to Colorado funding and working families. She supports a more a progressive tax code and the ending of tax loopholes for large corporations and the wealthy. Zokaie is also outspoken in her support of reproductive freedoms, LGBTQ+ protections, and criminal justice reform.

Zokaie is facing pro-gun and oil and gas-enthusiast Steve Yurash of the Center Party. The Center Party is made up of moderates who do not take strong stances on political matters.

Yara Zokaie is the progressive running to represent House District 52.

Yara Zokaie is running to represent Colorado House District 52. Zokaie is a tax professional who has advocated for small businesses and now works as the Chief Deputy Assessor for Larimer County. She is a first generation Iranian American who knows the struggles of working families. As an activist, Zokaie worked with local moms and legislators to bring the importance of paid parental leave into the public eye.

Zokaie understands the harm that TABOR (Taxpayer Bill of Rights) has done to Colorado funding and working families. She supports a more a progressive tax code and the ending of tax loopholes for large corporations and the wealthy. Zokaie is also outspoken in her support of reproductive freedoms, LGBTQ+ protections, and criminal justice reform.

Zokaie is facing pro-gun and oil and gas-enthusiast Steve Yurash of the Center Party. The Center Party is made up of moderates who do not take strong stances on political matters.

Yara Zokaie is the progressive running to represent House District 52.

Representative, District 53

Rep. Andrew Boesnecker is running for re-election to the Colorado State House to represent House District 53. A former teacher and an ordained ELCA minister, Rep. Boesnecker has worked tirelessly for over a decade to bring the Ft. Collins and Larimer County communities together. Rep. Boesnecker has spent his tenure supporting environmental legislation such as SB181, championing public education, comprehensive health care, and recovery from COVID-19. In 2022, Rep. Boesnecker sponsored legislation requiring oil and gas reporting, protections for mobile home park residents, and culturally relevant training for health professionals.

Anti-media Republican Donna Walter is running again to represent House District 52. She has refused to speak to news sources about her platform, though has said on Twitter that she hopes to avoid the "Bidenism" that has failed America.

Rep. Boesnecker is the progressive choice for House District 53.

Rep. Andrew Boesnecker is running for re-election to the Colorado State House to represent House District 53. A former teacher and an ordained ELCA minister, Rep. Boesnecker has worked tirelessly for over a decade to bring the Ft. Collins and Larimer County communities together. Rep. Boesnecker has spent his tenure supporting environmental legislation such as SB181, championing public education, comprehensive health care, and recovery from COVID-19. In 2022, Rep. Boesnecker sponsored legislation requiring oil and gas reporting, protections for mobile home park residents, and culturally relevant training for health professionals.

Anti-media Republican Donna Walter is running again to represent House District 52. She has refused to speak to news sources about her platform, though has said on Twitter that she hopes to avoid the "Bidenism" that has failed America.

Rep. Boesnecker is the progressive choice for House District 53.

Representative, District 57

Elizabeth Velasco is running for reelection to Colorado House District 57. A small business owner and the daughter of immigrants, Rep. Velasco has lived in Pitkin, Eagle, and Garfield counties for over 20 years. An experienced community leader and advocate, Velasco served as a Public Information Officer for Wildland Fire. She has worked in the service, healthcare, nonprofit, and local government industries. Rep. Velasco has championed solutions to climate change, lowered costs for working families, increased access to health care, supported immigrant rights, and funded small business development. As a State Representative, she has sponsored bills regarding public knowledge of hazardous chemicals released through oil and gas operations, rights for mobile home owners, and the secure storage of firearms in motor vehicles.

Opposing Velasco is Republican Caleb Waller. Waller seeks an anti-public education "Parental Bill of Rights" that would allow individual parents the ability to control the statewide public education curriculum. He also supports TABOR (Taxpayers Bill of Rights) expansion and opposes regulation and accountability for oil and gas corporations.

Rep. Velasco is the progressive choice for House District 57.

Elizabeth Velasco is running for reelection to Colorado House District 57. A small business owner and the daughter of immigrants, Rep. Velasco has lived in Pitkin, Eagle, and Garfield counties for over 20 years. An experienced community leader and advocate, Velasco served as a Public Information Officer for Wildland Fire. She has worked in the service, healthcare, nonprofit, and local government industries. Rep. Velasco has championed solutions to climate change, lowered costs for working families, increased access to health care, supported immigrant rights, and funded small business development. As a State Representative, she has sponsored bills regarding public knowledge of hazardous chemicals released through oil and gas operations, rights for mobile home owners, and the secure storage of firearms in motor vehicles.

Opposing Velasco is Republican Caleb Waller. Waller seeks an anti-public education "Parental Bill of Rights" that would allow individual parents the ability to control the statewide public education curriculum. He also supports TABOR (Taxpayers Bill of Rights) expansion and opposes regulation and accountability for oil and gas corporations.

Rep. Velasco is the progressive choice for House District 57.

Representative, District 62

Rep. Matthew Martinez is running for reelection to Colorado House District 62. Rep. Martinez is a veteran who served in the US Marines Corps during the Iraq War. He is a dedicated public servant who has served the Boys and Girls Club of the San Luis Valley Board of Directors as well as the Adams State University LatinX Caucus.

Rep. Martinez currently serves as the Vice Chair to the Education Committee. He has passed legislation to support Colorado veterans, agriculture, and students in both traditional schools and trade programs. Rep. Martinez advocates for renewable energy development and living wage policies. He stands with laborers and unions across the state.

Republican candidate Carol Riggenbach is challenging Rep. Martinez. Riggenbach is a conservative gun enthusiast who prides herself on being "Gun totin'" and "Bible packin.'" She supports Colorado becoming a Constitutional Carry State, which would see the removal of any permitting or legal regulations in order to own and carry a firearm. She supports increasing funding to law enforcement, oil and gas drilling, and TABOR (Taxpayers Bill of Rights) expansion.

Rep. Martinez has proven himself to be the progressive choice for House District 62.

Rep. Matthew Martinez is running for reelection to Colorado House District 62. Rep. Martinez is a veteran who served in the US Marines Corps during the Iraq War. He is a dedicated public servant who has served the Boys and Girls Club of the San Luis Valley Board of Directors as well as the Adams State University LatinX Caucus.

Rep. Martinez currently serves as the Vice Chair to the Education Committee. He has passed legislation to support Colorado veterans, agriculture, and students in both traditional schools and trade programs. Rep. Martinez advocates for renewable energy development and living wage policies. He stands with laborers and unions across the state.

Republican candidate Carol Riggenbach is challenging Rep. Martinez. Riggenbach is a conservative gun enthusiast who prides herself on being "Gun totin'" and "Bible packin.'" She supports Colorado becoming a Constitutional Carry State, which would see the removal of any permitting or legal regulations in order to own and carry a firearm. She supports increasing funding to law enforcement, oil and gas drilling, and TABOR (Taxpayers Bill of Rights) expansion.

Rep. Martinez has proven himself to be the progressive choice for House District 62.

Representative, District 64

Mark K. Matthews, a retired physician with nearly four decades of service to Colorado and beyond, is running in House District 64. Now living on a farm in Mead, Matthews often donates surplus harvest to the Weld Food Bank. His platform focuses on expanding healthcare access, protecting reproductive rights, and removing government interference from medical decisions. Matthews also advocates for public schools and teacher unions, while prioritizing affordable housing. As a Gun Sense Candidate for Moms Demand Action, he stands in contrast to his opponent, incumbent Republican Rep. Ryan Armagost.

A former law enforcement professional and self-described Constitutional Conservative, Armagost notably sponsored an attempt to impeach Secretary of State Jenna Griswold. This move came after Griswold complied with the Colorado State Supreme Court's decision to remove Donald Trump from the state ballot, citing his role in the January 6th insurrection and constitutional disqualification.

For a progressive voice in House District 64, voters are encouraged to support Mark K. Matthews.

Mark K. Matthews, a retired physician with nearly four decades of service to Colorado and beyond, is running in House District 64. Now living on a farm in Mead, Matthews often donates surplus harvest to the Weld Food Bank. His platform focuses on expanding healthcare access, protecting reproductive rights, and removing government interference from medical decisions. Matthews also advocates for public schools and teacher unions, while prioritizing affordable housing. As a Gun Sense Candidate for Moms Demand Action, he stands in contrast to his opponent, incumbent Republican Rep. Ryan Armagost.

A former law enforcement professional and self-described Constitutional Conservative, Armagost notably sponsored an attempt to impeach Secretary of State Jenna Griswold. This move came after Griswold complied with the Colorado State Supreme Court's decision to remove Donald Trump from the state ballot, citing his role in the January 6th insurrection and constitutional disqualification.

For a progressive voice in House District 64, voters are encouraged to support Mark K. Matthews.

County Commission Races

Depending on where you live, you may have the below county races on your ballot.

Adams County Commission

Kathy Henson is running for Adams County Commissioner of District 2. Henson is an active community leader and advocate. She has served as a councilmember of the Thornton City Council, member of the Adams 12 School District Finance & Audit Committee, and has directed and choreographed over 50 theatrical productions in the surrounding areas. Henson began her advocacy career 22 years ago as a member of a committee to increase opportunities for Colorado’s professional performing artists. 

Henson will champion families, students, and local businesses as County Commissioner. She will prioritize affordable housing for all, environmental protections, and public safety. Henson supports modernizing and reforming law enforcement practices by championing co-response programs that provide clinicians and mental health experts as alternatives to police force in mental health emergencies. She understands the importance of a mindful transition to 100% renewable energy and decreasing our carbon emissions. Henson will seek market based approaches to housing accessibility and diversification as well as promoting small businesses over corporations. 

Opposing Henson is Bernadette Tedesco of the Colorado Center Party. 

Kathy Henson is a dedicated progressive candidate for Adams County Commissioner District 2. 

Adams County Commissioner candidates come from a specific district, but are elected county-wide or at-large. 
 

Kathy Henson is running for Adams County Commissioner of District 2. Henson is an active community leader and advocate. She has served as a councilmember of the Thornton City Council, member of the Adams 12 School District Finance & Audit Committee, and has directed and choreographed over 50 theatrical productions in the surrounding areas. Henson began her advocacy career 22 years ago as a member of a committee to increase opportunities for Colorado’s professional performing artists. 

Henson will champion families, students, and local businesses as County Commissioner. She will prioritize affordable housing for all, environmental protections, and public safety. Henson supports modernizing and reforming law enforcement practices by championing co-response programs that provide clinicians and mental health experts as alternatives to police force in mental health emergencies. She understands the importance of a mindful transition to 100% renewable energy and decreasing our carbon emissions. Henson will seek market based approaches to housing accessibility and diversification as well as promoting small businesses over corporations. 

Opposing Henson is Bernadette Tedesco of the Colorado Center Party. 

Kathy Henson is a dedicated progressive candidate for Adams County Commissioner District 2. 

Adams County Commissioner candidates come from a specific district, but are elected county-wide or at-large. 
 

El Paso County Commission

Bernard Byers is seeking election to the El Paso County Commission, District 2. Byers is a Colorado native who is passionate about community involvement and service. Be it as a youth basketball coach for the non-profit Colorado Storm, as a bank manager, or as a board member for The Resource Exchange helping support and advocate for children with disabilities, Byers is a strong progressive leader. He has served as a board member for the Colorado Springs Civic Engagement Committee, Colorado Springs Rising Professionals, and as Chair of the Public Art Commission, Pikes Peak region.

Byers is dedicated to supporting and improving education, public, safety, and infrastructure in El Paso County. Byers supports LGBTQ+ rights and is a proponent for increasing access and funding to mental health recourses and suicide prevention. He is endorsed by the Colorado Working Families Party and believes in authentic and transparent governance that serves its community accurately.

Byers is challenging incumbent candidate Carrie Geitner. Geitner is a constitutional conservative who supports harmful and hateful stereotypes about South American immigrants. She is president of a charter school and supports "parental rights" to school choice, which is often associated with anti-LGBTQ+ and anti-diversity sentiments. Geitner does not separate her faith from her approach to government stating "Our rights are given by our creator and not our government. Therefore, we are free to live out our lives as we see fit." She does not support reproductive freedoms, limits to the second amendment, or the repealing of TABOR.

Bernard Byers is the progressive choice for County Commissioner of El Paso County District 2.

Bernard Byers is seeking election to the El Paso County Commission, District 2. Byers is a Colorado native who is passionate about community involvement and service. Be it as a youth basketball coach for the non-profit Colorado Storm, as a bank manager, or as a board member for The Resource Exchange helping support and advocate for children with disabilities, Byers is a strong progressive leader. He has served as a board member for the Colorado Springs Civic Engagement Committee, Colorado Springs Rising Professionals, and as Chair of the Public Art Commission, Pikes Peak region.

Byers is dedicated to supporting and improving education, public, safety, and infrastructure in El Paso County. Byers supports LGBTQ+ rights and is a proponent for increasing access and funding to mental health recourses and suicide prevention. He is endorsed by the Colorado Working Families Party and believes in authentic and transparent governance that serves its community accurately.

Byers is challenging incumbent candidate Carrie Geitner. Geitner is a constitutional conservative who supports harmful and hateful stereotypes about South American immigrants. She is president of a charter school and supports "parental rights" to school choice, which is often associated with anti-LGBTQ+ and anti-diversity sentiments. Geitner does not separate her faith from her approach to government stating "Our rights are given by our creator and not our government. Therefore, we are free to live out our lives as we see fit." She does not support reproductive freedoms, limits to the second amendment, or the repealing of TABOR.

Bernard Byers is the progressive choice for County Commissioner of El Paso County District 2.

Naomi Lopez is running for County Commissioner in El Paso County District 3. Lopez is an educator and speech pathologist dedicated to empowering change and community. She is an active member of her teacher's union and has served as President of Neighbors for Education as well as as a member of the Colorado Springs Education Association, Colorado Education Association Equity Council for Race and Culture, and was a founding member of the Latina Equity Foundation.

Lopez hopes to support smart, inclusive, and thoughtful development in El Paso County. She will balance environmental protections and urban expansion while supporting parks and open space and renewable energy solutions. Lopez aims to improve public transportation options, physical and mental health access and support, and affordable housing for all. She is committed to celebrating diversity and inclusion and promoting all El Paso County has to offer.

Opposing Lopez is Bill Wysong. Wysong supports increasing funding to law enforcement and reducing health care accessibility for incarcerated persons. He is a supporter of TABOR and upholds unfounded and harmful ideologies regarding unhoused people having stated "Homeless encampments bring human waste, drug paraphernalia and other ecological hazards."

Naomi Lopez is the progressive choice for County Commissioner of El Paso County District 3.

Naomi Lopez is running for County Commissioner in El Paso County District 3. Lopez is an educator and speech pathologist dedicated to empowering change and community. She is an active member of her teacher's union and has served as President of Neighbors for Education as well as as a member of the Colorado Springs Education Association, Colorado Education Association Equity Council for Race and Culture, and was a founding member of the Latina Equity Foundation.

Lopez hopes to support smart, inclusive, and thoughtful development in El Paso County. She will balance environmental protections and urban expansion while supporting parks and open space and renewable energy solutions. Lopez aims to improve public transportation options, physical and mental health access and support, and affordable housing for all. She is committed to celebrating diversity and inclusion and promoting all El Paso County has to offer.

Opposing Lopez is Bill Wysong. Wysong supports increasing funding to law enforcement and reducing health care accessibility for incarcerated persons. He is a supporter of TABOR and upholds unfounded and harmful ideologies regarding unhoused people having stated "Homeless encampments bring human waste, drug paraphernalia and other ecological hazards."

Naomi Lopez is the progressive choice for County Commissioner of El Paso County District 3.

Dr. Detra Duncan is running for County Commissioner of El Paso County District 4. Duncan is an active community member who holds a PhD in Organizational Management. She currently serves as a member of the Fountain City Council At-Large. Dr. Duncan also serves the Pikes Peak Area Council of Governments Board of Directors, Fountain Creek Watershed District, and Colorado Municipal League.

As commissioner, Dr. Duncan will continue developing public safety measures, affordability, and environmental protections. She is also concerned with the state of healthcare access in El Paso County and is dedicated to providing affordable and readily available care for all. She will stand up for vocational school opportunities and infrastructure repair. Duncan is an advocate and will speak up for the needs of her community.

Applegate is the proud far-right conservative Republican opposing Dr. Duncan. Applegate is a an extreme gun enthusiast and personhood zealot. He also claims the "left is pushing woke social agendas upon children, in an attempt to tear down a nuclear family." Applegate supports TABOR, decreasing the presence of the state government, and doing away with mail-in ballots because of conspiracy theories about fraudulent elections. He does not have El Paso County's welfare in mind.

Dr. Detra Duncan is the progressive choice for County Commissioner of El Paso County District 4.

Dr. Detra Duncan is running for County Commissioner of El Paso County District 4. Duncan is an active community member who holds a PhD in Organizational Management. She currently serves as a member of the Fountain City Council At-Large. Dr. Duncan also serves the Pikes Peak Area Council of Governments Board of Directors, Fountain Creek Watershed District, and Colorado Municipal League.

As commissioner, Dr. Duncan will continue developing public safety measures, affordability, and environmental protections. She is also concerned with the state of healthcare access in El Paso County and is dedicated to providing affordable and readily available care for all. She will stand up for vocational school opportunities and infrastructure repair. Duncan is an advocate and will speak up for the needs of her community.

Applegate is the proud far-right conservative Republican opposing Dr. Duncan. Applegate is a an extreme gun enthusiast and personhood zealot. He also claims the "left is pushing woke social agendas upon children, in an attempt to tear down a nuclear family." Applegate supports TABOR, decreasing the presence of the state government, and doing away with mail-in ballots because of conspiracy theories about fraudulent elections. He does not have El Paso County's welfare in mind.

Dr. Detra Duncan is the progressive choice for County Commissioner of El Paso County District 4.

Garfield County Commission

Caitlin Carey is an attorney, mother, and member of the New Castle Town Council. Carey is running for Garfield County Commissioner District 2. She is looking to move Garfield County forward by prioritizing housing, transportation, and the environment. 

Carey seeks to bring Garfield County out of its isolationism to begin working on issues with neighboring communities to address regional issues for all Garfield County residents. Further, Carey will work to purchase and protect the Shoshone Water Right - safeguarding Colorado River water which is the backbone of West Slope agriculture, fishing, recreation, and drinking water. She believes that government should be transparent, accountable, and collaborative. She believes that making decisions based on personal material assessments is inappropriate and that the Commissioners' commandeering of the Library Board takes away citizen input and transparency in a public resource. 

Outgoing state legislator Perry Will is also running for Commissioner District 2. Will also believes that affordable housing, workforce development, West Slope water, public safety, and more are the critical issues facing Garfield County. Rep. Will also believes in "protecting children from pornography" in public libraries and sees federal mandates as a major issue for the County. 

Carey is the progressive running to represent Garfield County. 

Carey will prioritize Garfield County's residents and work to address the issues that matter most to local families. 

Garfield County Commissioner Candidates are voted on by the entire county.
 

Caitlin Carey is an attorney, mother, and member of the New Castle Town Council. Carey is running for Garfield County Commissioner District 2. She is looking to move Garfield County forward by prioritizing housing, transportation, and the environment. 

Carey seeks to bring Garfield County out of its isolationism to begin working on issues with neighboring communities to address regional issues for all Garfield County residents. Further, Carey will work to purchase and protect the Shoshone Water Right - safeguarding Colorado River water which is the backbone of West Slope agriculture, fishing, recreation, and drinking water. She believes that government should be transparent, accountable, and collaborative. She believes that making decisions based on personal material assessments is inappropriate and that the Commissioners' commandeering of the Library Board takes away citizen input and transparency in a public resource. 

Outgoing state legislator Perry Will is also running for Commissioner District 2. Will also believes that affordable housing, workforce development, West Slope water, public safety, and more are the critical issues facing Garfield County. Rep. Will also believes in "protecting children from pornography" in public libraries and sees federal mandates as a major issue for the County. 

Carey is the progressive running to represent Garfield County. 

Carey will prioritize Garfield County's residents and work to address the issues that matter most to local families. 

Garfield County Commissioner Candidates are voted on by the entire county.
 

Democrat, Steven Arauza is running for Garfield County Commissioner District 3. Arauza is a geologist and career public servant. As a state employee, he has spent over a decade working in the oil fields and on common sense oil and gas regulation. Arauza also serves as a member of Colorado WINS, the state employees union. 

Arauza would bring a Latino voice to the county commission and currently serves on the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment Environmental Justice Board. If elected to the commission, Arauza would focus on addressing the housing crisis, improving access to health care, mental health care, and child care. He will prioritize collaboration, the needs of working families in Garfield County who rely on the transportation system, and protecting the County's natural resources. 

Arauza is challenging incumbent Commissioner Mike Samson for District 3. A long-time county commissioner, Mike has been a strong proponent of oil and gas and sponsored the resolution to keep Garfield County a "non-sanctuary county." During his tenure, Samson has proven himself an oil and gas, anti-immigrant conservative. 

Arauza is the progressive choice for Garfield County District 3. 

The Garfield County Commissioner's race will be voted on at-large. 
 

Democrat, Steven Arauza is running for Garfield County Commissioner District 3. Arauza is a geologist and career public servant. As a state employee, he has spent over a decade working in the oil fields and on common sense oil and gas regulation. Arauza also serves as a member of Colorado WINS, the state employees union. 

Arauza would bring a Latino voice to the county commission and currently serves on the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment Environmental Justice Board. If elected to the commission, Arauza would focus on addressing the housing crisis, improving access to health care, mental health care, and child care. He will prioritize collaboration, the needs of working families in Garfield County who rely on the transportation system, and protecting the County's natural resources. 

Arauza is challenging incumbent Commissioner Mike Samson for District 3. A long-time county commissioner, Mike has been a strong proponent of oil and gas and sponsored the resolution to keep Garfield County a "non-sanctuary county." During his tenure, Samson has proven himself an oil and gas, anti-immigrant conservative. 

Arauza is the progressive choice for Garfield County District 3. 

The Garfield County Commissioner's race will be voted on at-large. 
 

District Attorney, 18th Judicial District

Depending on where you live, you may have one of the below district attorney races on your ballot.

Amy Padden is running for Colorado's 18th judicial district after an extremely narrow loss in 2020 to John Kellner, who is now term limited. She's worked in the Colorado Attorney General's Office, the U.S. Attorney's Office, and District Attorney's Offices in the 5th and 11th districts. In District 18, Padden has identified rehabilitation over incarceration and public safety as priorities. Her wealth of knowledge and experience at the state and federal level make her an excellent candidate.
Her opponent, Carol Chambers, was a nurse before becoming an attorney. She served as the district attorney from 2004-2012, and is coming out of retirement because “somebody needed to run." Chambers has faced disciplinary action in the past due to attempts to influence the outcome of cases or encourage convictions from prosecutors.
Padden's experience and human-first approach make her an easy choice for progressive voters.

Amy Padden is running for Colorado's 18th judicial district after an extremely narrow loss in 2020 to John Kellner, who is now term limited. She's worked in the Colorado Attorney General's Office, the U.S. Attorney's Office, and District Attorney's Offices in the 5th and 11th districts. In District 18, Padden has identified rehabilitation over incarceration and public safety as priorities. Her wealth of knowledge and experience at the state and federal level make her an excellent candidate.
Her opponent, Carol Chambers, was a nurse before becoming an attorney. She served as the district attorney from 2004-2012, and is coming out of retirement because “somebody needed to run." Chambers has faced disciplinary action in the past due to attempts to influence the outcome of cases or encourage convictions from prosecutors.
Padden's experience and human-first approach make her an easy choice for progressive voters.

Statewide Ballot Measures

VOTE YES

Vote YES on Amendment G

Colorado SHOULD extend its Homestead exemption to veterans, injured in the line of duty, who have been federally qualified as TDIU (or classified as having a service-related disability that has rendered them unemployable).

A constitutional measure referred to the ballot by the state legislature, Amendment G would add this exemption to Colorado veterans, who cannot hold steady employment as a result of their service.

Currently in Colorado, seniors (65+), Gold Star spouses, and veterans with a 100% service-related disability, can exempt 50% of the first $200,000 of their home’s value from taxation.

An estimated 3,700 veterans in Colorado who are not otherwise able to claim the homestead exemption would be eligible for the exemption under this amendment in property tax year 2025.

The state reimburses the local governments for all revenue lost as a result of the exemption.

The measure requires a 55% YES vote to pass.

We recommend a YES vote on Amendment G.
 

Colorado SHOULD extend its Homestead exemption to veterans, injured in the line of duty, who have been federally qualified as TDIU (or classified as having a service-related disability that has rendered them unemployable).

A constitutional measure referred to the ballot by the state legislature, Amendment G would add this exemption to Colorado veterans, who cannot hold steady employment as a result of their service.

Currently in Colorado, seniors (65+), Gold Star spouses, and veterans with a 100% service-related disability, can exempt 50% of the first $200,000 of their home’s value from taxation.

An estimated 3,700 veterans in Colorado who are not otherwise able to claim the homestead exemption would be eligible for the exemption under this amendment in property tax year 2025.

The state reimburses the local governments for all revenue lost as a result of the exemption.

The measure requires a 55% YES vote to pass.

We recommend a YES vote on Amendment G.
 

VOTE YES

Vote YES on Amendment J to protect marriage equality

As progressives, we proudly continue to stand with and support marriage equality for all.

Marriage is a basic right, and Colorado’s Constitution SHOULD reflect this right for all state residents. Amendment J repeals the ban on same-sex marriage in Colorado by striking language in Colorado’s Constitution stating that only the union of one man and one woman is a valid or recognized marriage in Colorado.

Repealing the ban is necessary, as the U.S. Supreme Court has hinted at overturning marriage equality in a prior opinion, and the legality of same-sex marriage would then revert to each state.

Amendment J was referred to the ballot by the Colorado State Legislature and requires a 55% YES vote to pass. 

We must protect the legality of same-sex marriage in Colorado. We strongly recommend a YES vote on Amendment J.
 

As progressives, we proudly continue to stand with and support marriage equality for all.

Marriage is a basic right, and Colorado’s Constitution SHOULD reflect this right for all state residents. Amendment J repeals the ban on same-sex marriage in Colorado by striking language in Colorado’s Constitution stating that only the union of one man and one woman is a valid or recognized marriage in Colorado.

Repealing the ban is necessary, as the U.S. Supreme Court has hinted at overturning marriage equality in a prior opinion, and the legality of same-sex marriage would then revert to each state.

Amendment J was referred to the ballot by the Colorado State Legislature and requires a 55% YES vote to pass. 

We must protect the legality of same-sex marriage in Colorado. We strongly recommend a YES vote on Amendment J.
 

VOTE YES

Vote YES on Amendment K for a more inclusive voting process in Colorado

Amendment K would require citizen initiatives to file their signatures one week earlier. Additionally, judges and justices seeking retention would be required to also file their “Declaration of Intent” one week earlier. Lastly, official text and ballot measure titles would have to be published one month sooner.

Should the measure pass, the Colorado Secretary of State and county clerks would have more time to finalize ballots ahead of printing.

Referred by the legislature, Amendment K requires 55% to pass. 

We recommend a YES vote on Amendment K.
 

Amendment K would require citizen initiatives to file their signatures one week earlier. Additionally, judges and justices seeking retention would be required to also file their “Declaration of Intent” one week earlier. Lastly, official text and ballot measure titles would have to be published one month sooner.

Should the measure pass, the Colorado Secretary of State and county clerks would have more time to finalize ballots ahead of printing.

Referred by the legislature, Amendment K requires 55% to pass. 

We recommend a YES vote on Amendment K.
 

VOTE YES

Vote YES on Amendment 79 to certify Coloradans’ constitutional right to abortion

Abortion is health care, and Amendment 79 protects the right to abortion care in Colorado’s constitution.

Amendment 79 ensures that state and local governments cannot block or limit access to abortion care. It removes existing insurance discrimination policies that prevent public employees and Coloradans enrolled in state and local government insurance programs, from having abortion care covered by their health insurance.

Currently, our state’s constitution does not keep the government out of personal, private health decisions, meaning the government can take away our right to abortion with the stroke of a pen.

A YES vote would change the Colorado constitution, recognizing the right to abortion and protecting it from future government interference of this right.

Regardless of the source of one's health insurance, the right to abortion should be protected for all Coloradans. Coloradans should have the freedom to decide for themselves whether to have an abortion, and that right shouldn’t depend on the source of their health insurance or who is in office.

We must end attempts by anti-abortion extremists to ban abortion in the state and even charge women who’ve had abortions with homicide. We can’t let that happen.

Vote YES on Amendment 79 to ensure that abortion remains safe, legal, and accessible for future generations in Colorado.

 

Abortion is health care, and Amendment 79 protects the right to abortion care in Colorado’s constitution.

Amendment 79 ensures that state and local governments cannot block or limit access to abortion care. It removes existing insurance discrimination policies that prevent public employees and Coloradans enrolled in state and local government insurance programs, from having abortion care covered by their health insurance.

Currently, our state’s constitution does not keep the government out of personal, private health decisions, meaning the government can take away our right to abortion with the stroke of a pen.

A YES vote would change the Colorado constitution, recognizing the right to abortion and protecting it from future government interference of this right.

Regardless of the source of one's health insurance, the right to abortion should be protected for all Coloradans. Coloradans should have the freedom to decide for themselves whether to have an abortion, and that right shouldn’t depend on the source of their health insurance or who is in office.

We must end attempts by anti-abortion extremists to ban abortion in the state and even charge women who’ve had abortions with homicide. We can’t let that happen.

Vote YES on Amendment 79 to ensure that abortion remains safe, legal, and accessible for future generations in Colorado.

 

VOTE NO

Vote NO on Amendment 80 to protect the future of Colorado's public schools

Amendment 80 is a misleading constitutional measure that would require 55% of the vote to pass. Designed to weaken and divert funds from public education, this amendment seeks to pave the way for taxpayer funded, private school voucher programs.

Programs such as this seek to divert critical resources from already underfunded public schools and funnel them to private schools that discriminate against students and families and do not have to meet state education standards or serve all students.

While pretending to be about school choice, which already exists in Colorado (since 1994), Amendment 80's private education proponents seek to justify book banning and abandon curriculums that include sex education, race, and ethnicity. This amendment also would allow parents to sue schools for following non-discrimination laws and interfere with school activities.

Amendment 80 is dangerous - opening the door for extremists to try to dictate school curriculum for 95% of Colorado’s kids.

We recommend that you vote NO on Amendment 80 and protect Colorado's public schools.
 

Amendment 80 is a misleading constitutional measure that would require 55% of the vote to pass. Designed to weaken and divert funds from public education, this amendment seeks to pave the way for taxpayer funded, private school voucher programs.

Programs such as this seek to divert critical resources from already underfunded public schools and funnel them to private schools that discriminate against students and families and do not have to meet state education standards or serve all students.

While pretending to be about school choice, which already exists in Colorado (since 1994), Amendment 80's private education proponents seek to justify book banning and abandon curriculums that include sex education, race, and ethnicity. This amendment also would allow parents to sue schools for following non-discrimination laws and interfere with school activities.

Amendment 80 is dangerous - opening the door for extremists to try to dictate school curriculum for 95% of Colorado’s kids.

We recommend that you vote NO on Amendment 80 and protect Colorado's public schools.
 

No Position

No Recommendation

In 2019, voters approved Proposition DD, which legalized sports betting in Colorado and authorized the state to collect up to $29 million per year in tax revenue from sports betting. Proposition JJ proposes allowing the state to keep any sports betting tax revenue above $29 million per year. This already collected revenue would go towards the Colorado Water Plan instead of being refunded to casinos and sportsbook operators.

As a statutory measure, Proposition JJ just needs above 50% of the vote to pass.

In 2019, voters approved Proposition DD, which legalized sports betting in Colorado and authorized the state to collect up to $29 million per year in tax revenue from sports betting. Proposition JJ proposes allowing the state to keep any sports betting tax revenue above $29 million per year. This already collected revenue would go towards the Colorado Water Plan instead of being refunded to casinos and sportsbook operators.

As a statutory measure, Proposition JJ just needs above 50% of the vote to pass.

VOTE YES

Vote YES on Proposition KK to fund mental health programs with a modest tax on guns and ammo

Voting YES on Proposition KK supports our most at-risk Coloradans — veterans, youth, and victims of domestic violence and other violent crimes. Proposition KK creates a new state tax on the sale of firearms, firearm parts, and ammunition. This revenue would provide around $39 million each year to fund mental health support for survivors of trauma as well as youth and school safety programs.

These programs would provide critical resources to build resilience for survivors of trauma, support the prevention of crime and gun violence, and help end the cycle of violence.

We recommend a YES vote on Amendment KK.

 

Voting YES on Proposition KK supports our most at-risk Coloradans — veterans, youth, and victims of domestic violence and other violent crimes. Proposition KK creates a new state tax on the sale of firearms, firearm parts, and ammunition. This revenue would provide around $39 million each year to fund mental health support for survivors of trauma as well as youth and school safety programs.

These programs would provide critical resources to build resilience for survivors of trauma, support the prevention of crime and gun violence, and help end the cycle of violence.

We recommend a YES vote on Amendment KK.

 

No Position

No Recommendation

Proposition 127 would prohibit killing, wounding, pursuing, entrapping, or discharging a deadly weapon at bobcats, lynx, and mountain lions in Colorado. This measure bans all hunting, pursuing, or entrapping of bobcats, lynx, and mountain lions.

Proposition 127 would prohibit killing, wounding, pursuing, entrapping, or discharging a deadly weapon at bobcats, lynx, and mountain lions in Colorado. This measure bans all hunting, pursuing, or entrapping of bobcats, lynx, and mountain lions.

VOTE NO

Vote NO on Proposition 128 and reject fear-based policies that create dangerous prison conditions

Proposition 128 is a “scare tactic” initiative aimed to increase state spending on prisons, jeopardize prison safety, and disincentivize educational and mental health programs for inmates. 

This measure would require an individual convicted of certain crimes to serve 85% of their sentence before the possibility of parole, up from 75% of their sentence. While the measure claims to be “tough on crime,” it does nothing to actually decrease crime. Rather, Proposition 128, is designed to increase prison populations in Colorado, increase spending, and increase the likelihood of repeat offenses by removing incentives for inmates to participate in education, mental health, and other rehabilitation resources. 

We recommend a NO vote on Proposition 128.
 

Proposition 128 is a “scare tactic” initiative aimed to increase state spending on prisons, jeopardize prison safety, and disincentivize educational and mental health programs for inmates. 

This measure would require an individual convicted of certain crimes to serve 85% of their sentence before the possibility of parole, up from 75% of their sentence. While the measure claims to be “tough on crime,” it does nothing to actually decrease crime. Rather, Proposition 128, is designed to increase prison populations in Colorado, increase spending, and increase the likelihood of repeat offenses by removing incentives for inmates to participate in education, mental health, and other rehabilitation resources. 

We recommend a NO vote on Proposition 128.
 

VOTE NO

Vote NO on Proposition 130, a knee-jerk measure to tie the hands of lawmakers on public safety funding

Proposition 130 would reallocate $350 million of state funds to expand policing in Colorado. Currently, most local police are funded through local and municipal budgets, not from state coffers. The initiative falsely claims to fund first responders, but restricts the funds to local law enforcement only – fire fighters, EMTs, or mental health professionals would not receive a dime.

This measure diverts even more funding to local law enforcement at the expense of other essential services that are proven to increase and support public safety, such as education resources, mental health services, co-responder programs, and community development. The proposed government funding mandated by this measure does not include any oversight and cannot be used for diversion programs.

We recommend a NO vote on Proposition 130.
 

 

 

Proposition 130 would reallocate $350 million of state funds to expand policing in Colorado. Currently, most local police are funded through local and municipal budgets, not from state coffers. The initiative falsely claims to fund first responders, but restricts the funds to local law enforcement only – fire fighters, EMTs, or mental health professionals would not receive a dime.

This measure diverts even more funding to local law enforcement at the expense of other essential services that are proven to increase and support public safety, such as education resources, mental health services, co-responder programs, and community development. The proposed government funding mandated by this measure does not include any oversight and cannot be used for diversion programs.

We recommend a NO vote on Proposition 130.
 

 

 

VOTE NO

Vote NO on Proposition 131, a solution in search of a problem that will confuse voters and decrease participation

The supporters of Proposition 131 (former DaVita CEO Kent Thiry and other multi-millionaires) want to make it easier for wealthy candidates like themselves to win in Colorado.

Proposition 131 proposes an “all-candidate” primary for U.S. Senate and House, statewide positions like governor, and the state legislature. It would ask primary voters to choose from all candidates for each of these races, regardless of political affiliation. The top four vote recipients would advance to the general election.

The new voting model would make elections in Colorado more expensive to administer, do away with Colorado’s post-election audit, and is designed to confuse voters and decrease participation.

Proposition 131 would not apply to the Presidential primary.

We recommend a NO vote on Proposition 131.
 

The supporters of Proposition 131 (former DaVita CEO Kent Thiry and other multi-millionaires) want to make it easier for wealthy candidates like themselves to win in Colorado.

Proposition 131 proposes an “all-candidate” primary for U.S. Senate and House, statewide positions like governor, and the state legislature. It would ask primary voters to choose from all candidates for each of these races, regardless of political affiliation. The top four vote recipients would advance to the general election.

The new voting model would make elections in Colorado more expensive to administer, do away with Colorado’s post-election audit, and is designed to confuse voters and decrease participation.

Proposition 131 would not apply to the Presidential primary.

We recommend a NO vote on Proposition 131.