Folks, I almost spilled my coffee reading this one. It seems the Democratic Party in Colorado is about to get a whole lot more interesting. With primaries for governor and a key House race coming up, the party is gearing up for a showdown between moderates and progressives. Two-term Gov. Jared Polis is term-limited, and his decision to reduce the prison sentence of convicted election denier Tina Peters at President Donald Trump’s urging has angered many Democrats in the state. Now, the race to replace him is all about how the next governor will take on Trump.
The Democratic primaries in Colorado are shaping up to be a real battle royale. In the 1st District, 15-term Rep. Diana DeGette is facing a challenge from Melat Kiros, a 29-year-old democratic socialist and lawyer endorsed by Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders. Kiros has been critical of DeGette’s acceptance of corporate PAC money and has faced scrutiny for her views on Israel. Meanwhile, DeGette is touting her support for progressive positions, including abortion rights and Medicare for All.
In the governor’s race, US Sen. Michael Bennet is facing a challenge from state Attorney General Phil Weiser, who has sued the Trump administration dozens of times. Weiser’s ads highlight his efforts to stand up to the “lawless, bullying administration,” while portraying Bennet as supported by corporate honchos. Bennet argues he has bolder plans to take on climate change and expand health care access.
Another moderate-versus-progressive battle is playing out in Colorado’s Senate race, where incumbent Sen. John Hickenlooper faces a challenge from the left in state Sen. Julie Gonzales. The race also features themes of generational change, with a 74-year-old former Denver mayor and governor facing a 43-year-old rival who has branded him a “go-along-to-get-along incrementalist.”
In the 8th District, the Democratic primary pits state Rep. Manny Rutinel, 31, against former state Rep. Shannon Bird, 57. Rutinel is a relative newcomer to Colorado, while Bird was viewed as among the more moderate Democrats in the legislature.
It’s going to be a wild ride in Colorado, folks. With these primaries coming up, it’s clear that the Democratic Party is still figuring out what it stands for and who it wants to lead the charge against Trump. Bless their hearts, they’re certainly making it interesting.
In conclusion, the Democratic primaries in Colorado are shaping up to be a real showdown between moderates and progressives. With the governor’s race, Senate race, and House race all up for grabs, it’s going to be a long and interesting summer. And who knows, maybe we’ll even get some answers to the question of what the Democratic Party stands for. But one thing’s for sure, folks, it’s going to be a wild ride, and I’m pouring myself another cup of coffee to enjoy the show.
Armchair patriot. Believes in the free market, cold beer, and that there’s always a guy named George behind every CNN segment.
Former remote-throwing champion turned #1 couch commentator on liberal panic in the media. Born in Texas (or so his mug says), he earned a degree in Fake Newsology & Beer Philosophy from YouTube University.
