Melat Kiros Wins Democratic Primary in Colorado’s First District
Melat Kiros, a democratic socialist, has emerged as the projected winner in Colorado’s First Congressional District Democratic primary. This victory means a new representative for Denver, replacing Rep. Diana DeGette, who held the position since the mid-1990s.
Kiros, only 29 years old and new to political candidacy, secured 49.3% of the vote as of 10 p.m. MT. Incumbent Rep. Diana DeGette obtained 43.5%, and University of Colorado Regent Wanda James garnered 7.2%.
Discussing her motivations, Kiros informed CBS Colorado about her decision to pursue office after observing Denver residents’ shifting preferences. She cited a September 2025 survey from the Colorado Polling Institute, which revealed 52% of those polled favored socialism over 48% favoring capitalism. The same study indicated higher unfavorability for capitalism (47%) compared to socialism (39%).
Kiros stated, “We’re seeing that the way we’ve organized our government only benefits the rich and powerful, who can influence it, unlike working people.”
Her campaign strongly supported by the Democratic Socialists of America and Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders. Her primary win was anticipated after her performance at the Democratic assemblies earlier this year. She secured 646 delegate votes, equivalent to 63%, eclipsing DeGette’s 336 votes, or 32%, at the Denver Democratic Assembly in March. This assembly is a significant factor in deciding Democratic candidates who make it to the primary ballot.
Following the assemblies, Mike Dino, a veteran Colorado Democratic strategist, commented on DeGette’s unexpected poor performance. He noted, “I was surprised that the congresswoman nearly failed to secure her ballot spot and lacked a backup plan with signatures.” Candidates who do not receive enough delegate votes need signatures to make it onto the ballot, underscoring Kiros’ underestimated yet well-organized campaign.
DeGette, a member of the U.S. House Committee on Energy and Commerce, is Colorado’s longest-serving congressional member. She faced primary challenges only five times in her 15 elections.
Now, Kiros advances to contest against Republican Christy Peterson, who ran unopposed, in the general election on November 3.