Democratic Socialist Defeats Incumbent in Colorado Primary

Rep. Diana DeGette, a longstanding Democrat from Colorado, was defeated by Melat Kiros, a candidate backed by the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA), in a primary election. This significant win marks a boost for the socialist faction within the Democratic Party.

Kiros, a 29-year-old with socialist views, won the election in a heavily Democratic district in Denver. The DSA highlighted this victory as part of a growing trend, following similar successes in New York City primaries.

“Today, the East Coast, next week the Mountain West,” the DSA proclaimed on social media.

If Kiros wins the general election in November, she could become part of the far-left group known as the Squad, bringing more socialist voices into Congress. Her campaign received endorsements from notable figures like Sen. Bernie Sanders, Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, and the group Justice Democrats.

During her primary run, Kiros gained support from figures such as Hasan Piker, a controversial socialist influencer who has made contentious statements about Israel and China. In contrast, DeGette emphasized her support for progressive policies like Medicare-for-All, highlighting her senior position in Congress as a means to advance leftist goals.

While DeGette and Kiros had limited policy differences, they stood apart on issues regarding Israel and campaign contributions. Kiros criticized DeGette for receiving corporate PAC donations and had herself been involved in controversies over her past statements on Israel and Palestine.

These controversies included Kiros’s firing from a New York law firm after defending pro-Palestinian students’ protests. Additionally, she had made remarks suggesting the U.S. foreign policy contributed to events like the 9/11 attacks. In response, DeGette condemned Kiros’s comments, describing them as unacceptable.

The primary was further complicated by the candidacy of Wanda James, another contender, although she did not significantly impact the result. DeGette’s loss signals a shift within the Democratic Party in Colorado toward more socialist-leaning perspectives.