Democratic socialist Melat Kiros defeats long-time incumbent in Colorado primary
Melat Kiros, a 29-year-old Ph.D. student and lawyer, won the Democratic primary for Colorado's 1st Congressional District, positioning her to become the first Gen Z woman in Congress.
Political newcomer Melat Kiros secured the Democratic nomination for Colorado's 1st Congressional District, defeating 15-term incumbent Diana DeGette in a primary that the Associated Press called a clear win. The district, which covers most of Denver and is considered safely Democratic, will likely send Kiros to Washington, D.C., in the upcoming general election.
Kiros, an Ethiopian immigrant and self-identified democratic socialist, ran on a platform that includes universal health care, universal child care, the abolition of Immigration and Customs Enforcement, and an end to U.S. military aid to Israel. She also pledged not to accept contributions from corporate political action committees or pro-Israel lobbying groups, criticizing DeGette for taking donations from defense contractors, energy firms and pharmaceutical companies.
"Young people understand that we are in the fight of our lives," Kiros told NPR, emphasizing the need for leaders who will pursue bold policies without waiting for permission.
DeGette defended her record, highlighting her support for progressive measures on health care and climate change. Kiros' victory adds to recent successes for candidates endorsed by the Democratic Socialists of America, which has seen wins in primaries in New York and Pennsylvania. If elected in November, Kiros would join a small group of self-identified democratic socialists currently serving in the House and become the second Gen Z member after Florida Rep. Maxwell Frost.
