Manny Rutinel’s Changing Stance on Ranching in Colorado’s 8th District

Manny Rutinel, a state legislator and Democratic candidate for Congress in Colorado’s 8th Congressional District, has a history of activism against ranching and animal-related businesses. This stance presents a challenge as the district he aims to represent relies heavily on these sectors. Rutinel’s previous positions raise questions about his current outlook on the meat industry as he campaigns to unseat Rep. Gabe Evans, R-Colo., in this highly competitive district.

Rutinel acknowledged a shift in his views on ranching during an interview with the Colorado Sun in late 2024. He remarked, “Like all industry, there are bad apples, and I’ve spoken out against those bad apples that cause extreme and unnecessary animal cruelty in parts of the food industry and against the environmental cost of unsustainable food practices.” He emphasized his respect for local ranchers, saying, “They’re good stewards of the land, they care for their animals, and they are the backbone of our economy and our communities.”

Importantly, Colorado’s 8th district leads the state’s beef cattle and dairy production, contributing 26% of the overall output according to Upstate Colorado Economic Development. With 75% of its 2.5 million acres dedicated to farming and livestock, this area plays a crucial role in the sector.

Republican National Committee spokesperson Zach Kraft expressed skepticism about Rutinel’s candidacy, stating, “Meatless Manny makes PETA look reasonable and he wants to force Coloradans to scrounge for berries and nuts off the ground like cavemen.” Kraft added that Rutinel’s veganism appears incompatible with the district’s ranching industry.

The Green Shift

Despite reconsidering his views on ranching, Rutinel has previously indicated a world without it. During an Earth Day event at age 21, he advocated for veganism, reflecting this perspective in testimony before the Connecticut legislature while attending Yale Law School. He referred to the Planetary Health Diet, a report advocating for a global shift away from animal products, citing environmental and health benefits.

As a state legislator, Rutinel called a proposed fur ban “really awesome,” a stance not shared by Denver Democrats. He also initiated a campaign for Popeyes to offer plant-based options during the COVID-19 pandemic, aiming to reduce slaughterhouse workers’ exposure to the virus.

Rutinel founded Climate Refarm, a group promoting plant-based food systems to mitigate greenhouse gas emissions. The group’s website states, “We exist to turn everyday choices into powerful tools for climate action. Our mission is to help institutions transition to plant-based food systems while reducing greenhouse gas emissions through science-backed carbon credit solutions.”

Rutinel’s campaign has not yet commented on whether he maintains that climate reform necessitates changes in farming industries. After winning the Democratic primary, Rutinel will compete against Evans on November 3, 2026, in the general election.

Leo Briceno covers politics for the congressional team at Fox News Digital and has previously reported for World Magazine.