Manny Rutinel, a state legislator and Democratic candidate for Congress in Colorado’s 8th Congressional District, has drawn attention for his activism against ranching and other animal-related industries. This is significant because the district he seeks to represent relies heavily on these sectors.
Rutinel, who aims to unseat Republican Rep. Gabe Evans, has recently reconsidered his views on ranching. In an interview with the Colorado Sun, he emphasized that while there are problematic practices in the industry, many ranchers operate sustainably and are vital to the community.
“Like all industry, there are bad apples, and I’ve spoken out against those bad apples that cause extreme and unnecessary animal cruelty in parts of the food industry and against the environmental cost of unsustainable food practices,” Rutinel stated. “They’re good stewards of the land, they care for their animals and they are the backbone of our economy and our communities. Colorado ranchers are my friends and neighbors, and I’ve gotten to know them,” he added.
Colorado’s 8th district is key to the state’s agriculture, leading in beef cattle and dairy production, and accounting for 26% of the state’s output. According to Upstate Colorado Economic Development, 75% of its 2.5 million acres is used for farming and livestock raising.
Criticism has followed Rutinel, with Republican National Committee spokesperson Zach Kraft accusing Rutinel of wanting to radically change diets in the state. Kraft remarked, “Meatless Manny makes PETA look reasonable and he wants to force Coloradans to scrounge for berries and nuts.” Rutinel’s historical advocacy for veganism has added fuel to these critiques.
Rutinel’s past includes promoting veganism and expressing thoughts on significant dietary shifts to address climate change. In testimony at Yale Law School, he supported the Planetary Health Diet, advocating for a move away from animal products.
Rutinel also supported progressive proposals such as a fur ban and initiated efforts to encourage establishments like Popeyes to adopt plant-based menus, arguing this could mitigate disease risk during events like the COVID-19 pandemic.
He founded Climate Refarm, aiming to transition food systems toward plant-based options to reduce greenhouse gases. The organization’s mission involves helping institutions make changes that align with climate action goals.
With his primary victory, Rutinel will compete against Evans in the upcoming general election, slated for November 3, 2026.