Melat Kiros Wins Democratic Primary in Colorado’s First Congressional District

Melat Kiros, a democratic socialist, has emerged as the projected winner of the Democratic primary in Colorado’s First Congressional District. This victory means a significant change for the district, covering Denver, as Rep. Diana DeGette will be replaced for the first time since the mid-1990s.

Kiros, 29, is venturing into politics for the first time. As of 10 p.m. MT, Kiros secured 49.3% of the vote. Incumbent Rep. Diana DeGette received 43.5%, while University of Colorado Regent Wanda James earned 7.2%.

During her election campaign, Kiros expressed her decision to run was influenced by the electorate’s shifting attitude towards socialism. She referred to a survey conducted by the Colorado Polling Institute in September 2025. The findings showed 52% of Denver voters favored socialism over capitalism, which was favored by 48%. Additionally, the study found that 39% viewed socialism unfavorably, while 47% had an unfavorable view of capitalism.

“I think it’s because we’re seeing that the way we’ve organized our government is really only giving returns to the rich and the powerful because they’re the ones with the means to influence it in the way that they want to see it, whereas working people do not,” Kiros stated.

Kiros has garnered support from significant figures and organizations, including the Democratic Socialists of America and Sen. Bernie Sanders of Vermont. Her success in this primary was foreshadowed by her performance in the Democratic assemblies earlier this year.

At the Denver Democratic Assembly in March, Kiros received 646 delegate votes, accounting for 63% of the total. Meanwhile, DeGette managed 336 votes, or 32%. Veteran Colorado Democratic strategist Mike Dino noted DeGette’s advantages in name recognition and congressional seniority, yet her poor performance at the assembly was unexpected.

Dino commented, “I was surprised that the congresswoman almost missed getting on the ballot and didn’t have, necessarily, a backup plan with signatures.” Securing delegate votes is crucial, although candidates can also gather voter signatures to qualify for the ballot. Dino emphasized that Kiros’ organization was underestimated, leading to the surprise win.

DeGette, a seasoned representative in Colorado’s congressional delegation, has served on the U.S. House Committee on Energy and Commerce. In her political career, spanning 15 elections, she has faced primary challengers only five times.

Looking ahead, Kiros will compete against Republican Christy Peterson in the general election on November 3. Peterson ran in the primary unopposed.