Melat Kiros, a democratic socialist, has emerged as the projected winner of the Democratic primary in Colorado’s First Congressional District. This victory means that the district, covering Denver, will have a new representative for the first time since the mid-1990s, replacing Rep. Diana DeGette.

Kiros, aged 29, entered the political arena for the first time and secured 49.3% of the vote. Incumbent Diana DeGette received 43.5%, while University of Colorado Regent Wanda James garnered 7.2%.

During her campaign, Kiros stated her decision to run was influenced by polling data, indicating Denver voters lean more toward socialism than capitalism. A September 2025 survey by the Colorado Polling Institute showed 52% of respondents favored socialism, while 48% preferred capitalism. Additionally, 39% had an unfavorable view of socialism, compared to 47% with a negative perception of capitalism.

Kiros attributed skewed governmental benefits to the rich and powerful, lacking representation for working individuals. Her campaign highlighted endorsements from the Democratic Socialists of America and Senator Bernie Sanders of Vermont.

Kiros’ success in the primary was not unforeseen to some, as she had previously gained significant support at the Denver Democratic Assembly earlier in the year, receiving 63% of delegate votes against DeGette’s 32%.

Longtime Colorado Democratic strategist Mike Dino noted that despite DeGette’s name recognition and congressional experience serving as advantages, her performance in the assemblies was unexpectedly poor, reflecting a lack of backup with voter signatures to secure her ballot spot.

Diana DeGette, a member of the U.S. House Committee on Energy and Commerce, has been the longest-serving member of Colorado’s congressional delegation. Over her 15 elections, she faced a primary challenger only five times.

Melat Kiros will now move on to the general election on November 3, facing Republican Christy Peterson, who ran unopposed.