DENVER — Democratic Socialists are aiming to notch another major primary victory Tuesday in Colorado, as far-left candidate Melat Kiros challenges veteran Rep. Diana DeGette in a Denver-based House race that has become a proxy war between the party's establishment and its insurgent progressive wing.
The contest in Colorado's 1st Congressional District, which also includes University of Colorado Regent Wanda James, reflects deepening voter dissatisfaction with the status quo. Kiros, a 29-year-old former attorney and current barista pursuing a PhD, has cast herself as a true outsider who understands the district's struggles, contrasting with DeGette's decades in office. She has highlighted her refusal to accept corporate PAC money, though outside super PACs are active on both sides.
DeGette, a member of the Congressional Progressive Caucus, is warning voters against taking a risk on a newcomer. She points to her seniority and potential to chair the Health Subcommittee if Democrats retake the House. James is considered a long-shot candidate.
The primary is also testing Democratic attitudes on Israel, a flashpoint that helped propel DSA-backed candidates Claire Valdez and Darializa Avila Chevalier to primary wins in New York City last week. A third DSA win in Colorado would embolden the far left and could put vulnerable Democrats in battleground seats at risk of being linked to socialist politics. As Trump escalates attacks on Democratic Socialists, the stakes are high for both parties.
Antiestablishment Mood Across Multiple Races
The antiestablishment sentiment extends beyond the House primary. Sen. John Hickenlooper faces a challenge from progressive state Sen. Julie Gonzales, who has branded him a “do-nothing Dem” for voting to confirm ten Trump cabinet nominees. Hickenlooper has largely ignored Gonzales by skipping forums and debates, and is seen as the favorite.
In the governor's race, Sen. Michael Bennet and state Attorney General Phil Weiser are vying to replace term-limited Gov. Jared Polis. Weiser has positioned himself as a fighter against corporate interests, noting he sued the Trump administration 66 times, and has criticized Bennet for supporting some Trump cabinet picks. Bennet counters with aggressive policy plans, including a state public option for health insurance and a goal to cap rent at 30% of income. He has endorsements from Hickenlooper and several House Democrats.
Meanwhile, the Colorado GOP primary for governor features a three-way contest between an establishment-backed state senator and two controversial candidates, adding another layer of political drama.
Israel Debate Heats Up Denver Race
Support for Israel has become a central issue in the Denver House race, mirroring dynamics seen in New York. The DSA has made opposition to Israel a key part of its platform, and Kiros has aligned with that stance. This issue helped unseat Rep. Dan Goldman in New York, and it could shape the outcome here. The surge of democratic socialism reflects broader voter rejection of corruption and inequality, but it also risks alienating moderate voters.
A Kiros win would signal that the far left's momentum is not confined to New York and could pressure incumbents nationwide. A DeGette victory, however, would suggest that DSA appeal is limited and provide relief to House Democratic leadership, who fear Republicans will tie their vulnerable members to socialist candidates in November.
Colorado's primaries are a critical test of whether the party's base wants experienced incumbents or fiery newcomers willing to challenge the establishment—and whether the DSA can sustain its winning streak.
