Democratic socialist Melat Kiros defeated longtime incumbent Representative Diana DeGette in Colorado's 1st Congressional District primary on Wednesday, July 1, 2026, according to the Associated Press.
Kiros, a 29-year-old political newcomer, campaigned on working-family platforms, universal healthcare, and rejecting corporate PAC funds. She will face Republican Christy Peterson in November.
In the gubernatorial race, Attorney General Phil Weiser secured the Democratic nomination by defeating U. S.
Senator Michael Bennet. Weiser highlighted his record on consumer fraud and opioid lawsuits during the campaign.
Bennet remains in his Senate seat with two years left on his term. The winner will replace term-limited Democratic Governor Jared Polis.
State Representative Manny Rutinel won the Democratic nomination for the competitive 8th Congressional District in Boulder.
The Cook Political Report rates the district as one of only 18 toss-ups nationally.
Rutinel, who emphasized his Dominican background, defeated state Representative Shannon Bird. He will face incumbent Republican Representative Gabe Evans in the general election.
The Republican gubernatorial primary remains too close to call.
Votes are still being tallied for state Senator Barbara Kirkmeyer, Marine Corps veteran Victor Marx, and state Senator Scott Bottoms.
Marx led fundraising efforts despite facing accusations from opponents regarding the accuracy of his humanitarian background.
The primary results signal ongoing momentum for progressive factions ahead of the November midterm elections, which will determine control of a closely divided U.
S. House of Representatives.
