Melat Kiros Wins Democratic Primary, Poised to Make History in Congress
Melat Kiros has secured a victory in the Democratic primary for the U.S. House in Denver, according to the Associated Press. Kiros, a political newcomer and democratic socialist, defeated long-standing incumbent Democrat Diana DeGette for Colorado’s 1st Congressional District.
Kiros is set to become the first Gen Z woman in Congress. She will likely head to Washington, D.C., next year, replacing DeGette, who has been in office since 1997.
This win highlights a shift within the Democratic Party, as younger, left-leaning candidates make strides against seasoned politicians. Kiros, an Ethiopian immigrant and 29-year-old Ph.D. student and lawyer, aligns with this movement. She advocates for universal healthcare, childcare, and controversial policies like abolishing Immigration and Customs Enforcement and halting U.S. military aid to Israel.
Kiros has rejected corporate PAC money and pro-Israel lobbying funds. She criticized DeGette’s acceptance of defense contractor donations and contributions from energy and pharmaceutical companies.
DeGette defended her progressive stance on healthcare and climate policies but ultimately lost her reelection bid as reported by the AP.
Kiros’ victory adds to a series of wins for the Democratic Socialists of America. A week prior, DSA-endorsed candidates in New York City—Darializa Avila Chevalier and Claire Valdez—emerged victorious in their primary races. Additionally, in May, Chris Rabb won a primary in Pennsylvania’s 3rd Congressional district.
If Kiros succeeds in the general election, she would join a small group of democratic socialists in Congress, currently represented by Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez of New York and Rashida Tlaib of Michigan. She would also be the second Gen Zer in the House, alongside Florida Democrat Maxwell Frost.
In a February NPR interview, Kiros emphasized that her campaign’s policies resonate with younger voters. “Young people understand that we are in the fight of our lives,” she stated. “We need leaders who will fight for bold changes that achieve real results. We are not settling or waiting for permission.”