Jessica Killin Wins Democratic Primary in Colorado’s 5th Congressional District

Jessica Killin emerged victorious in the Democratic primary for Colorado’s 5th Congressional District on Tuesday. She is set to face off in November against the current representative, Jeff Crank, a Republican. This district, centered on Colorado Springs, includes most of El Paso County and communities with a significant military presence.

Killin, who is new to candidacy, previously served as an Army captain and as chief of staff to Doug Emhoff, the second gentleman. Her victory came over Joe Reagan, another Army veteran recognized for his efforts to assist veterans through nonprofit work. Reagan had previously sought the seat in 2024, depending on his local connections and contributions to the community.

Crank, the incumbent, faced no opposition in the Republican primary. He seeks a second term representing this historically Republican district. Crank has a background in Capitol Hill staff work and roles such as Vice President of the Colorado Springs Chamber of Commerce. His resume extends to broadcasting, having hosted The Jeff Crank Show and the American Potential Podcast.

The upcoming general election will gauge whether Democrats can increase their influence in a district that includes places such as Fort Carson and the Air Force Academy, in addition to the rapidly developing suburbs of Colorado Springs. This race has attracted the attention of national Democrats due to shifting political trends. While traditionally a Republican stronghold, the area has seen reduced Republican margins. In El Paso County, overlapping with the 5th District, Trump’s winning margin dropped from 22 points in 2016 to 10 points by 2024.

The Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee (DCCC) included Killin in its Red to Blue program, indicative of the view that her potential to convert the Republican seat is strong—even in an area still leaning GOP.

Jessica Killin has aligned herself with a centrist ideology within the Democratic Party. Before the primary, she endorsed an initiative emphasizing capitalist principles, public safety, fiscal responsibility, border security, and national pride. In a virtual press event, she articulated that candidates identifying with the Democratic Socialists of America should not represent the party’s image, according to local reports from Colorado Politics.

Reporter Background: Alec Schemmel serves as a Politics Reporter for Fox News Digital. Originally from Charlotte, North Carolina, he currently resides in the Washington D.C.-Baltimore Metro Area.