Democratic socialist Melat Kiros projected to topple longtime Colorado Rep. Diana DeGette in primary
Updated on: June 30, 2026 / 10:41 PM MDT / CBS Colorado
TL;DR
- Melat Kiros, a democratic socialist, is projected to win the Democratic primary in Colorado's First Congressional District.
- This victory means the district will be represented by someone other than Rep. Diana DeGette for the first time since the mid-1990s.
- Kiros, 29, cited polling data indicating Denver voters favor socialism over capitalism as a reason for her candidacy.
- Kiros' campaign highlighted support from the Democratic Socialists of America and Sen. Bernie Sanders.
- Kiros had a strong showing at the Denver Democratic Assembly, securing a majority of delegate votes.
- Kiros will face Republican Christy Peterson in the general election on November 3.