Colorado NewslineDenver & Colorado
Candidate Q&A: Democratic state legislative primaries
A view of the Colorado Capitol on Jan. 25, 2024. (Quentin Young/Colorado Newsline)
Coloradans will vote in primary elections June 30 to determine which candidates will represent their party in the general election in November.
The elections cover Colorado’s four statewide constitutional offices, one U.S. Senate seat, all eight of the state’s congressional districts, state legislative districts and other races. Colorado Newsline sent questionnaires to candidates in contested primary races and is publishing responses as part of its voter guide to help Coloradans make informed choices.
Ballots were scheduled to be mailed to all registered voters in Colorado starting June 8.
Voters can contact their county clerk if they have not received their ballot or check the online BallotTrax system. They can also visit the secretary of state’s website to make a plan to vote in person ahead of or on Election Day. Ballots need to be received by the county clerk by 7 p.m. on that day, so voters should mail their ballot at least eight days ahead of time or drop it off in person.
Use the Colorado General Assembly’s Find My Legislator tool to determine what House and Senate districts you live in.
Candidates often refer to the Taxpayer’s Bill of Rights as TABOR. That is a constitutional amendment that limits state spending according to population and inflation growth. Everything over that cap must be returned to taxpayers via a variety of refund mechanisms outlined in state statute. TABOR also requires voter approval for new taxes.
Click on a district to jump to answers from candidates in that district:
- House District 5
- House District 6
- House District 9
- House District 13
- House District 17
- House District 19
- House District 31
- House District 33
- House District 41
- House District 42
- Senate District 3
- Senate District 21
- Senate District 34
House District 5
Age: 40
City of residence: Denver
Occupation: Grassroots organizer
Age: 25
City of residence: Denver
Occupation: Senior Outreach Manager, Office of Mayor Mike Johnston
Where would you take an out-of-town friend to visit in your district?
SANDOVAL: As a person who has grown up in Denver my entire life, this is a question I get a lot. People often ask me where to go and how to really experience Denver, and I take a lot of pride in being kind of an unofficial ambassador for my city. Depending on the season, I’d probably take them to a Rockies game at Coors Field. They may not win, but there’s not a bad seat in the stadium. You get a 360 view of the game, an amazing look at the downtown skyline, and views of the mountains usually paired with one of those world-famous Colorado sunsets. I’d also take them down to the Santa Fe Arts District. We could grab a coffee at Tonantzin Casa de Café or get a bite to eat somewhere along Santa Fe while walking around La Alma–Lincoln Park, one of Denver’s oldest neighborhoods and the city’s first historic cultural district honoring the Chicano Movement. The neighborhood is full of incredible murals and local art connected to the Chicano Mural Movement, and it tells an important story about the culture and community that helped shape Denver.
SIMMS: Downtown Denver has experienced significant change since the pandemic (and) it’s important to celebrate how far we’ve come, from reopening 16th street, to reactivating our beloved downtown public spaces and bringing our unhoused neighbors indoors. I would, and have, taken my out of town friends to the heart of Downtown Denver to see a show, enjoy a drink or a meal on 16th street, or to see a show at one of our amazing venues. Soon to be home to every Denver sports team, House District 5 has so much to offer!
What do residents in your district say are the community’s biggest issues, and how will you work to address it?
SANDOVAL: One of the biggest issues I hear from residents is a little more abstract than the usual policy conversations about housing, affordability, or public safety. People feel increasingly disconnected from each other and from the neighborhoods they call home. Our district includes the heart of Denver and some of the city’s most historic communities, and people want to make sure that as Denver grows, we don’t lose the sense of community that makes these neighborhoods special. As a state House candidate, I want to help unite our district by investing in the things that bring people together. That means improving public transit and accessibility so our neighborhoods are better connected and easier for everyone to navigate. It means supporting small businesses, especially local restaurants and neighborhood storefronts that serve as gathering places but are struggling with rising costs and rent. This district needs more diverse and attainable housing options so longtime residents, young families, workers, artists, and newcomers alike can afford to live and build community here. Denver should continue to grow, but in a way that keeps our neighborhoods welcoming, connected, and accessible to people from all backgrounds.
SIMMS: When talking to my neighbors in House District 5, the challenges they raise are often the same. Many are struggling to keep up with the rising costs of housing, many are heartbroken by the scenes of addiction and mental illness that is plaguing so many in our community, they’re worried about the safety of their streets, and the quality of the air they breathe and the water they drink. These are all symptoms of our deeply entrenched crisis of inequality. I want to address these crises by addressing the root causes, not simply the symptoms. I want to leverage a public bank to provide the cheapest access to capital for housing development across the entire housing spectrum, bringing units online to reduce the costs of housing across the board. I want to invest in services across the entire spectrum of recovery. You need to meet our most vulnerable residents where they are, and when the services they rely on don’t exist, they have no choice but to get left behind. And finally, I want to divest our tax dollars from extractive industry which continues to pollute our communities in pursuit of private profits.
This was the second year in a row the Legislature had to make deep program cuts to balance the state budget. Where can the state reduce its spending, and what is your view on how Colorado can return to a positive budget situation?
SANDOVAL: Colorado’s budget situation is honestly exhausting to watch because every year we end up having the same conversation about cutting services people depend on the most. Our schools are comically underfunded, healthcare costs are through the roof, and communities need more support, but TABOR keeps the state stuck with one hand tied behind its back. I don’t think the answer is cutting programs that help working families, kids, seniors, people with disabilities, or people struggling to get by. I support getting rid of TABOR and updating Colorado’s outdated tax code, including moving toward a graduated income tax so the wealthiest people pay more instead of putting all the financial pressure on everyday Coloradans. I support legislation that would help Colorado actually invest in public education, healthcare, disability services, housing, and transportation instead of constantly fighting over scraps. Colorado is a wealthy state. We should be able to fund good schools, accessible communities, functioning transit, and basic services without acting like that’s unrealistic. People are tired of hearing there’s never enough money while costs keep rising and communities keep being asked to settle for less.
SIMMS: We have to be clear-eyed about the fact that further cuts in state spending will continue to diminish the quality of human services that our neighbors rely on every day. The solution to our budget crisis requires more than cutting spending, and raising revenue continues to be a challenge under TABOR. We need to become the second state in the nation to charter a public bank off of North Dakota’s model to maximize the impact of the tax revenue we already collect. Simply by diverting our tax dollars out of Wall Street, institutions will provide the revenue stream we need not only to fix our structural deficit, but to generate excess revenue which can be returned to the state’s general fund in the form of a dividend.
What policies should the state enact regarding the proliferation of data centers?
SANDOVAL: Data centers, especially in Denver, have become one of the biggest topics of concern across the nation right now because people feel like these projects are being forced into neighborhoods with zero transparency, zero regard for the long-term impact on the community, and almost no real public input. I believe the state should enact much stronger policies around where data centers can be built, how much water and energy they are allowed to use, and whether communities actually want them there in the first place. That includes stricter environmental review standards, limits on water consumption, protections against building these facilities near residential neighborhoods, and giving local communities real power to reject projects that do not align with their needs. Colorado is already dealing with water scarcity, rising energy demands, and the realities of climate change. Water should be for people, agriculture, and life first, not machines. I am not against technology or economic growth, but I do not think corporations should be able to come into our communities, drain resources, and reshape neighborhoods without accountability.
SIMMS: We need to understand that data centers will be needed for our own domestic use of AI. The concerns held by community are very real. They’re scared about their water being contaminated, their energy costs rising and environmentally sensitive spaces being contaminated further. I think we need to pass legislation as a state that ensures our data centers aren’t adding onto the negative impacts communities already face from industry. We need to ensure that our data centers conform to the highest standards of environmental responsibility, and we must protect rate payers from increases in energy and water use rate hikes.
What is your view on working across the aisle, and within your own party, to advance policy?
SANDOVAL: I think people are tired of elected officials treating politics like a performance instead of focusing on solving problems. I’m going to the Capitol to fight for the people and values I believe in, but I also understand that meaningful change only happens when people are willing to work together. I come from an activist background, and for a long time my role was pushing people in power to act from outside the Capitol. Now, if I want to pass meaningful policy, I have to navigate a Legislature made up of 64 other representatives with different perspectives and priorities. That means fighting hard for what I believe in while also being willing to build relationships and find common ground where possible. I’ll work with anyone who comes to the table in good faith and is serious about finding real solutions for Colorado. I also think collaboration within the Democratic Party is really important right now. I want to come in with a clean slate, work with as many people as possible, and be an effective and collaborative member of the State House.
SIMMS: Three years in city government taught me that the government can’t do anything alone — the job is to be a convening power. I’ve built coalitions with business owners, nonprofits, mutual aid volunteers, and service providers because they have capacity government doesn’t, and I’ll legislate the same way: judge every partner by whether they help the people we serve, not by their label. Good policy is measured by its impact on the ground, and I’ll work with whoever is serious about that.
House District 6
Sean Camacho (incumbent)
Age: 43
City of residence: Denver
Occupation: Attorney, state representative
Age: 45
City of residence: Denver
Occupation: Civil rights attorney
Where would you take an out-of-town friend to visit in your district?
CAMACHO: One of the greatest things about House District 6 is that it is in the heart of Denver and includes some of the best businesses, attractions, and public spaces in the state. One of my favorite locations in my district is the Denver Botanic Gardens. My family visits the Botanic Gardens multiple times a year, and it is the first thing that comes to mind when I think about what I would show an out-of-town visitor. It not only holds great events and exhibits year-round but also represents Colorado’s commitment to and appreciation of nature.
HALPERN: That’s a tough one, we have a lot of great places to visit including the Capitol in my district, but I would probably take an out-of-town friend to the Botanic Gardens and Cheesman Park.
What do residents in your district say are the community’s biggest issues, and how will you work to address it?
CAMACHO: I frequently check in with my constituents to gauge their top issues, and it is repeatedly clear that my constituents care deeply about a broad range of issues, from affordability and the high cost of living to health care access and support. One of the most consistent issues that my constituents prioritize is TABOR’s impact on our state finances. I am considered one of the foremost experts on TABOR in Colorado, having worked on the TABOR lawsuit early in my legal career and being the first legislator to introduce legislation challenging TABOR’s constitutionality. As we cut nearly $1 billion from our state budget each year due to TABOR and H.R. 1, the conversation around TABOR has intensified significantly. Another top priority is standing up against the Trump administration’s dangerous agenda, which has specifically targeted Colorado. This includes protecting SNAP, gender-affirming care, immigration and civil rights. During my first term, I effectively represented my district’s priorities in my votes and the bills I ran, as well as stood up to Trump and special interests that want to derail Colorado’s future.
HALPERN: In my district, residents’ concerns run the gamut. Some frequently raised issues include affordability, specifically affordable housing, repealing TABOR so we can secure more support for education, healthcare, and housing, and implement a more progressive taxation system, regulation of artificial intelligence, and strong resident concern for immigrant and constitutional rights.
This was the second year in a row the Legislature had to make deep program cuts to balance the state budget. Where can the state reduce its spending, and what is your view on how Colorado can return to a positive budget situation?
CAMACHO: Having cut over $3 billion from our budget, we are long past the point of trimming the excess or finding spare change in our couch cushions. We have to make deeply painful cuts that will dramatically impact the lives of Coloradans who need help across the state. In my view, all roads lead back to TABOR. If we don’t finally rid Colorado of TABOR, we will continue to have to cut crucial services that my constituents rely on, especially in health care. As the General Assembly’s leading voice against TABOR, my top priority is to dismantle this broken budget structure so we can restore and expand funding for important state services, and I am the legislator with the experience to make this happen.
HALPERN: We can always look for redundant spending or areas where we can be more efficient or reduce fraud, but the truth is that cutting essential services and programs cannot be a problem we face every year. We need to repeal TABOR and implement a progressive taxation system on wealthy individuals and corporations. We need the capability to raise revenue to adequately fund services and programs. For example, right now, Colorado ranks 48th in the country for public school funding. We are paying about $2,400 less per pupil per year than the national average, because of TABOR. So while it is always important to be a careful steward of the public’s financial resources, we cannot cut our way out of these budget shortfalls, we need to be able to raise revenue. We also need to look at other avenues to increase the state’s finances as we work to repeal TABOR, including closing tax loopholes, and making the wealthiest individuals and corporations pay their fair share for supporting the state and its residents.
What policies should the state enact regarding the proliferation of data centers?
CAMACHO: Data centers are coming to Colorado, and we need to pass strong regulations and requirements now to ensure we are prepared for their growing prevalence in our state. We don’t want to see a situation like the one our neighbors in Utah are experiencing, and the General Assembly plays an essential role in ensuring that our communities and environment don’t pay the bill for data centers. Additionally, I firmly believe that the state shouldn’t provide financial incentives or tax breaks to data centers, especially while we are fighting to save critical services in the budget. We can expect the conversation around data centers to be a near-permanent fixture in Colorado politics for the foreseeable future. Still, it is clear to me that my constituents are united in opposing handouts and loose regulations for data centers.
HALPERN: I agree with an indefinite moratorium on building new data centers in the state until, and only if, all of our concerns regarding the technology’s development are met. Those concerns are not just limited to the harmful environmental impacts of data centers on air, water, energy consumption, and local utility rates, although those are significant considerations. I am also concerned that a lack of regulation for this industry means we have no assurance that artificial intelligence will be developed with the greater good of our communities in mind. AI development and deployment should promote the interests of ordinary people, not just increase the record wealth inequality we are witnessing. We need to ensure that AI develops so that it does not threaten our communities’ economic health, does not violate our civil and constitutional rights, protects our privacy expectations, reduces the commodification of our data, does not make war more likely or destructive, and keeps our children safe.
What is your view on working across the aisle, and within your own party, to advance policy?
CAMACHO: Good policy is not contingent on party affiliation, and I have run some very impactful bills with my colleagues across the aisle as well as members within my party. I believe that if we reject an idea simply because its proponent is not in our party, we could miss many promising opportunities to address our state’s most urgent needs. While I strongly disagree with members of the opposite party on numerous issues, I will not hesitate to work with them when we align on an idea. We must always prioritize good policy and progress, and that is a legislative approach I will continue to employ as long as I am in office. This same philosophy applies to working with members of my own party and is essential to effective policymaking.
HALPERN: Legislation won’t pass and policies won’t advance without working across the aisle and/or within one’s own party. I would do so wherever feasible. Elected officials come from different areas across the state, possess different technical expertise, and can bring different ideas and solutions to the table. We can all learn from each other in that sense. I think it’s important to listen to, learn from and consider those who have had different experiences and serve different constituents with unique problems and needs. However, I also think gaining agreement cannot be an excuse for compromising fundamental values and objectives. Advancing a policy proposal or bill so compromised that it no longer achieves its original objectives, in the name of bipartisanship or uniform party support, gives regulations and laws a veneer of legitimacy that only exacerbates the harm these laws cause to our communities when they are put in place.
As an incumbent, what is one bill, vote or other legislative action you’ve taken that you feel best demonstrates your qualification for reelection?
CAMACHO: One of my proudest accomplishments in the Legislature was passing House Bill 25-1105, or my bill to provide every DPS teacher and staff member with a $2,500 raise for five years without raising taxes. In our current budget crisis, it seemed impossible to increase teacher pay, which our educators desperately need. I demonstrated the creative fiscal problem-solving and out-of-the-box thinking we expect from our elected officials to create real, positive change that our communities can see and feel.
As a challenger, are there any votes the incumbent has taken in the Legislature you disagree with? What are they and why would you have voted differently?
HALPERN: One vote I disagree with is his decision to side with Republicans and vote to kill House Bill 26-1036. This bill would have allowed our mountain communities, at their discretion, to impose a small tax on vacation homes that sit vacant for extensive periods to fund local affordable housing efforts. I also would have voted to amend HB26-1110, Vulnerable Adult Financial Exploitation Banking, to make financial institutions liable for elder fraud transactions if the institution “knew or should have known” the fraud was taking place, which the incumbent opposed. He instead voted in favor of an “actual knowledge” standard which greatly reduced the protection for our elderly community, who are frequently the targets of fraudulent financial schemes. There are a number of other votes he has taken that I disagree with and would have voted differently.
House District 9
Age: 45
City of residence: Denver
Occupation: VP of Partnerships for Stroke Onward
Age: 38
City of residence: Denver
Occupation: Founder and Principal of Lotus Public Affairs LLC
Where would you take an out-of-town friend to visit in your district?
VANBUSKIRK: Easy! Infinity Park in Glendale. The stadium is one of the premier rugby venues in the country and one of the best-kept secrets in Denver sports. What I love about it is that it works for everyone: Seniors can catch a great match, have a drink, and actually hear each other talk. Families with little kids can get their faces painted and let them run around on the hill. Younger adults can meet new people and learn a new sport. The energy is genuinely fun and community-rooted in a way that bigger venues rarely are. It is also a great entry point into women’s rugby, which has been a big part of my life, including when I won a national championship playing for Glendale. I’m at every home game, and I’m always pulling visitors to watch with us. So come check out a game, I’ll save you a seat.
WALIA: House District 9 is home to some of my favorite local and historic institutions. I’d take them to The Bagel Deli & Restaurant, Kokoro, Sojourners Coffee & Tea, and Inga’s Alpine Tavern.
What do residents in your district say are the community’s biggest issues, and how will you work to address them?
VANBUSKIRK: My partner and I both grew up moving around, her family in the military, mine in the migrant stream, so we wanted to raise our kids in one place to down roots. Over the past decade I’ve volunteered at schools and park cleanups, hosted block parties, helped seniors, and knocked on doors to ask what matters to you. Neighbors have told me three things: feeling unsafe, the cost of living, and struggling local businesses. These are connected. A family afraid of ICE doesn’t go out to the corner shop. A senior watching the water bill climb stops tending their yard where neighbors chat. On safety, I would create clear state protections against ICE in schools and workplaces, safer traffic, and invest in what makes a neighborhood feel like a neighborhood again. On cost, I support childcare infrastructure, utility cost controls, and first-time homebuyer help. And I’ve spent 20 years reducing costs for patients, so I know how to make meaningful change in healthcare. As a small business owner, I know the barriers to growth and how both our economy and our environment can thrive. These aren’t issues on a poll, these are what you’ve told me at the front door.
WALIA: The concerns I hear most often center on affordability: the rising cost of healthcare, housing, education, and public safety challenges. My vision begins with healthcare. I support building a universal, single-payer healthcare system and, in the near term, guaranteeing every Coloradan access to a state-funded annual primary care visit. Preventive care lowers costs, improves outcomes, and keeps people healthier. We must also fully fund public education so teachers can afford to live in the communities they serve, retire with dignity, and ensure students have the resources and support they need to thrive. To address housing affordability, I support investments that help first-time homebuyers and working families achieve homeownership. I am particularly interested in exploring innovative approaches, including a graduated mortgage interest-rate pilot program tied to affordable housing development. Public safety requires a balanced approach. We must ensure our communities have the law enforcement personnel they need while also addressing root causes through housing stability, mental health services, substance-use treatment, and economic opportunity. Safe communities are built through both accountability and investment.
This was the second year in a row the Legislature had to make deep program cuts to balance the state budget. Where can the state reduce its spending, and what is your view on how Colorado can return to a positive budget situation?
VANBUSKIRK: I’ll answer this honestly instead of just pretend scenarios. There are some places to find efficiency. State service contracts deserve regular review so we know we’re getting what we pay for. Healthcare administration wastes money on paperwork and duplication that does not help patients, and cutting that is good policy and good budgeting at once. But the more powerful answer is on the revenue side, and I’ve done this work. In Trump’s first term, he gave money back to health insurance companies. That sounds bad, but it created an opening. I helped design the mechanism that brought that money back to Colorado and put it straight into lowering healthcare costs for families. That’s the kind of creative, persistent work that actually moves the budget. I’d also change how TABOR artificially limits our budget below inflation. Imagine your family’s income not keeping up with gas prices. That’s not hard to picture, and that’s what TABOR does to the state. It’s a big reason we face the same hard budget choices every year. States that cut their way through tight years without protecting core investments don’t come out stronger. They come out behind.
WALIA: Colorado’s long-term budget challenges cannot be solved through cuts alone. We must have an honest conversation about whether our current revenue system provides sufficient resources to meet the needs of a growing state. I support the graduated income tax ballot measure and strongly support the ballot measure that would allow Colorado to retain and invest additional revenue in public education rather than issuing TABOR refunds. Investing in education is one of the most important things we can do to strengthen our economy, workforce, and future. I also support fully repealing TABOR and replacing it with a more equitable fiscal framework that gives Colorado flexibility to invest in public education, healthcare, housing, transportation, and other priorities while maintaining accountability to taxpayers. As we work toward that goal, we should pursue reforms that allow the state to make the investments our communities need today. I believe large corporations, private equity firms, hedge funds, and the wealthiest individuals should contribute more toward the public services and infrastructure that make our economy possible. We should explore targeted fees, taxes, and accountability measures that ensure powerful economic actors pay their fair share and do not extract profits at the expense of Colorado families and communities.
What policies should the state enact regarding the proliferation of data centers?
VANBUSKIRK: Denver City Council’s unanimous vote to pause data center development was the right call. We’re in a severe drought. If you asked me what to build for Colorado’s economy, the last thing I’d pick is a building that drinks this much water. Regional water use for data centers could balloon to over 89,700 acre-feet by 2035, even as we pay millions of dollars on projects for farmers to conserve water. Why save water on food and then hand it to data centers? We also have wild inflation. The last thing I’d choose is a corporate giveaway that raises Coloradans’ electric bills to subsidize an industry. Look at Virginia, home to the largest concentration of data centers in the world. Tax breaks there cost the state $1 billion annually, and the centers pay less than standard utility rates. I won’t accept a status quo where communities near these sites carry the environmental burden while the industry keeps the profit. We need smarter approaches that protect our water and wildlife, lower utility costs for residents, create lasting jobs, and keep our state healthy for future generations.
WALIA: Colorado should proceed thoughtfully and responsibly regarding data centers and artificial intelligence infrastructure. I support a temporary pause on new large-scale data center development while we study the economic, environmental, public health, energy, and water-use impacts on our communities. If Colorado moves forward with expanding data center development, these facilities must be strongly regulated to meet the highest standards for energy efficiency, water conservation, environmental stewardship, transparency, and data privacy. Economic development cannot come at the expense of our natural resources, public health, or consumer protections.
What is your view on working across the aisle, and within your own party, to advance policy?
VANBUSKIRK: Most of my career has meant working through division, and I’m good at it. I’m a mom, so I negotiate at every meal. As the former chief policy officer at Connect for Health, every bill I worked on was bipartisan. I spent years on a cost task force beside a Republican I disagreed with, but it worked because we cared about facts and didn’t make it personal. But bipartisan work doesn’t mean conceding every time. One of my boundaries is when something causes harm. I don’t tolerate it at home or at work. Within my Democratic party, we should be honest about tradeoffs instead of pretending we can fund everything at once. This honors our voters and is why I have so many state legislators’ endorsements. I’ve filled out citizenship paperwork, seen votes on my marriage, and am the only parent in this race. But I’m also the only one who has successfully written and passed multiple Colorado bills: easier tax credits for families; zero-dollar mental health visits for nearly 140,000 people; hundreds of millions in health insurance help for working families. That’s receipts over rhetoric.
WALIA: Throughout my career, I have worked successfully with diverse coalitions across the political spectrum. As director of government relations and policy for the Colorado Academy of Family Physicians, I helped advance legislation to eliminate non-compete agreements in healthcare. At the Asian Pacific Development Center, I worked alongside legislators and community organizations from different backgrounds to help establish Lunar New Year as an official Colorado state holiday. I believe effective governing requires strong principles, meaningful stakeholder engagement, and a willingness to find common ground where it exists. While there will always be issues on which people disagree, I focus on solutions rather than political division. My goal is to build coalitions around practical policies that improve people’s lives and strengthen our communities.
House District 13
Age: Not available
City of residence: Leadville
Occupation: Attorney
Age: 47
City of residence: Silverthorne
Occupation: Bookkeeper
Floyd did not return a questionnaire.
Where would you take an out-of-town friend to visit in your district?
REDHORSE: House District 13 is the most beautiful district in Colorado and has so much to offer. A thorough visit could easily take a month, with different activities, sights to see, and communities to visit. However, if I had only one day to share with an out-of-town friend, I would highlight Summit County, my home of 15 years and the place that has shaped my life and inspired me to run for office. My friend and I would start our day on Frisco Main Street, supporting local businesses and neighbors who are the heart of our communities. We would hike in the White River National Forest, just steps away from my front door, enjoying the serene, natural beauty offered within our public lands. We would finish the day with a show at the beautiful Dillon Amphitheater, a venue that connects locals and visitors through their love of music. Throughout this visit, we would certainly run into friends and community members from all walks of life. These experiences would encourage a deep appreciation of experiences, places, and viewpoints that represent just a small slice of House District 13.
What do residents in your district say are the community’s biggest issues, and how will you work to address it?
REDHORSE: Each of our communities experiences its own unique challenges, however consistent themes include cost of living, access to services, community safety, and protecting public lands. Community members I have spoken with are concerned about the lack of housing that meets their needs, access to healthcare and childcare, wildfires and drought, feeling safe in their own communities, public education funding, and persistent increases in cost of gas, groceries, and basic utilities. Addressing these issues must be done in partnership with communities throughout House District 13, and requires listening to understand their life experiences, how policies are affecting them, and high-impact solutions that will work for our communities. As your representative, I will listen to understand and make decisions with you, not for you. I will fight for sustainable programs and policies that support healthy, safe communities and make sense in mountain and rural areas. I will fight for a fair tax system that does not bind Colorado to outdated, inflexible, and arbitrary caps. I will clearly communicate the lived experiences and needs within our mountain and rural communities to ensure that our voices are heard in a system that tends to highlight the needs of the Front Range.
This was the second year in a row the Legislature had to make deep program cuts to balance the state budget. Where can the state reduce its spending, and what is your view on how Colorado can return to a positive budget situation?
REDHORSE: The state budget should maintain or expand funding to support the needs of families and individuals, especially those who are furthest from opportunity and whose lived experiences have been largely ignored. State and municipal budgets should prioritize access to safe and affordable housing, quality healthcare, childcare, education, and other programs that directly impact community members and the environment. Because the bulk of the state’s budget pays for Medicaid, education, human services, transportation, and corrections, it is difficult to determine areas where a reduction in spending would have a meaningful impact on the budget. I do, however, see opportunities to continue working towards reducing prison populations and Department of Corrections spending. I believe that Colorado can return to a positive budget situation by increasing state revenues to manage its structural deficit. This includes addressing TABOR limits on revenue that our governments can retain and spend, and Colorado’s use of rolling conformity with federal taxable income. Cost of services are increasing faster than inflation and population growth, and HR-1 included massive tax cuts for the wealthy. Colorado’s budget should be strong enough to support safe and healthy communities without increasing wealth inequality.
What policies should the state enact regarding the proliferation of data centers?
REDHORSE: I believe that the state should establish a moratorium on data centers until there are clear data-informed state-level regulations. These regulations should also allow local municipalities to adopt policies that strengthen regulation, not loosen them. The proliferation of data centers is occurring in a nearly non-existent regulatory environment. Colorado should ensure that environmental and economic harms caused by data centers are addressed through strict regulation. I believe that the significant increase in water usage and quality, increase in electric usage and associated costs, and movement away from our commitment to renewable energy do not offset local job creation from data centers. Further, I believe that taxpayer dollars should not be used to publicly fund tax incentives of any kind for data centers. We should be using our limited dollars to support all Coloradans, not large corporations or industry giants. I believe in the spirit behind Senate Bill 26-102, and I also believe that lawmakers need to hold firm against industry and special interests to the best of their ability. Throughout the country, we have seen bipartisan support to regulate data centers, demonstrating the importance that communities place on ensuring that their concerns are addressed.
What is your view on working across the aisle, and within your own party, to advance policy?
REDHORSE: I believe that working across the aisle and within my own party is necessary in order to best serve rural and mountain communities within House District 13, and protect public lands for generations to come. Advancing good policy requires collaboration, deep listening, dedication to learning, and understanding the impact on those most affected by these decisions. Being a strong leader means building relationships and welcoming challenging conversations. Drafting strong policy requires input from all affected stakeholders, regardless of political affiliation, in order to address concerns that may stall or prevent legislation. Ultimately, I believe that legislators need to hold strong to their own values while highlighting the needs and values of the communities they represent, especially those who are furthest from opportunity and access. I believe that we are strongest when we see each other as neighbors, encourage productive conflict, and build empathy for one another. As a nonpartisan elected school board leader of six years, I bring real-world experience in honoring diverse viewpoints while acting in alignment with my values, and I will continue to do so in all future endeavors.
House District 17
Age: 26
City of residence: Colorado Springs
Occupation: Former legislative aide, curator with Colorado Springs Pioneer Museum
Regina English (incumbent)
Age: 53
City of residence: Colorado Springs
Occupation: Business owner, state representative
Where would you take an out-of-town friend to visit in your district?
JOHNSON: If I could take an out-of-town friend to visit in the district, I would take (them to) Panorama Park. I would do this to show them a few things, one how we are becoming a destination where people want to come. Second, how a partnership can come together to create something that will last longer than them and how it is adaptive to every child. Finally, I would take them there because we have such a beautiful landscape to offer more than just a property, it is a possibility bigger than we know.
ENGLISH: If I were showing an out-of-town friend around Colorado House District 17, I would take them to my boutique, Your Favorite Fashionista, because it is more than a fashion space; it is a place rooted in community, confidence, and peace where people are empowered to be their best selves. I would also take them to Panorama Park, a transformational community space that means a great deal to me personally. I played an instrumental role in engaging residents in the design process and in moving the vision from the groundbreaking phase to the finished product. Today, Panorama Park is a vibrant destination for families across the city and reflects what can happen when communities are truly included in the process. Both places represent the heart of HD17: resilience, creativity, and community investment.
What do residents in your district say are the community’s biggest issues, and how will you work to address it?
JOHNSON: I would say the community’s biggest issues are healthcare, economic development, and housing. There are a few things I’d like to do to work on this, such as working on the healthcare front to get another hospital in the district, as well work with insurance companies to cap rates. When it comes to economic development, I would like to work to end TABOR and as well work to create a state-run bank such as a similar model in the state of North Dakota. Finally, in terms of housing, I’d create a state-run housing authority to work to build housing and work with regional partners as they are interested. I would also create a vacancy tax to discourage a continued housing drought.
ENGLISH: Residents across Colorado House District 17 are demanding bold investments in affordable housing, public safety, food security, affordable healthcare, education, and economic justice. Families want communities that are safe, stable, and full of opportunity, not systems that continue to leave working people behind. I believe true public safety starts with investing in people: quality education, accessible mental health care, youth programs, senior care, veterans care, disability rights, affordable housing, and pathways to economic mobility. I will continue building on the work I’ve already advanced in the Legislature by fighting for community-centered solutions that address the root causes of crime and instability while expanding access, opportunity, and resources for historically underserved communities. Everyone deserves the dignity of feeling safe, supported, and seen in their own neighborhood.
This was the second year in a row the Legislature had to make deep program cuts to balance the state budget. Where can the state reduce its spending, and what is your view on how Colorado can return to a positive budget situation?
JOHNSON: Yes, this is the second year in a row the state budget has had to make deep cuts. I believe that next year will be no different, which means even harder conversations. Right now the state spends a third on education, and a third on healthcare. The rest goes to other priorities, and that is where we need to have the conversation, like do we as a state need to pay for the wolf reentry program at the cost of our important agriculture communities. I also think we return to a positive budget if we bring in partners who will pay more in tax to help the many not the few, the Legislature spends responsibly, and we bring good partners in our state.
ENGLISH: Colorado’s budget challenges should not be solved by cutting the very programs families rely on to survive and thrive. We must protect investments in public education, affordable housing, health care, food security, and community safety while examining corporate tax breaks, subsidies, and spending that do not deliver real public value. A strong economy starts with strong communities, and that means investing in people, not balancing budgets on the backs of working families, seniors, and children. To return to a healthier budget position, Colorado must continue to expand economic opportunities, support small businesses, and create more equitable pathways to prosperity. I also believe we must have honest conversations about the structural constraints that limit Colorado’s ability to fully fund critical public services and respond to the needs of our communities.
What policies should the state enact regarding the proliferation of data centers?
JOHNSON: I know that data centers are something that is continuously growing faster, with no guard rails and costing jobs. So I would enact numerous laws to curb this. One would be that the state, or any jurisdiction within will pay for the development of the center. They will not be able to use Colorado water to source it, and are required to find an environmental alternative. They would also be required to do an environmental evaluation every two years to the environment committee. They also may not be used to violate the rights of individuals or other entities to do so. Finally, ensure the workers contracted to build are local and unionized in their contract.
ENGLISH: Colorado should take a responsible, community-centered approach to data center growth. These facilities should be sited to minimize harm to neighborhoods, natural resources, and environmental quality, not in communities already overburdened by pollution and infrastructure strain. I also believe corporations profiting from large-scale data centers should pay for the energy, water, and infrastructure they consume rather than shifting those costs onto taxpayers. Any future expansion must include strong environmental protections, transparency, sustainable energy practices, and meaningful community input. Innovation cannot come at the expense of working families, public resources, or environmental justice.
What is your view on working across the aisle, and within your own party, to advance policy?
JOHNSON: I believe working across the aisle is appropriate when necessary. I think for something that is essential, like when you are trying to create something like a hospital, but I feel it is not appropriate all the time. Like trying to get something done such as reproductive access and partisan issues when you know it will just be used to bash you or colleagues or people you represent, I am not for that. I as well believe within my own party when it comes to issues core to our belief we must never waver in what the people have sent us there for, but also understand that not all Democratic districts are the same.
ENGLISH: I believe bipartisan collaboration is essential to building meaningful policy that truly serves the people. When we come together despite our differences and focus on solutions rather than division, communities benefit. Since entering the Legislature, I have been intentional about working across the aisle and within my own party to advance policies centered on opportunity, equity, and real community impact. I believe effective leadership means listening to different perspectives, building relationships, and finding common ground without compromising core values. At the end of the day, good policy should improve people’s lives, and that requires collaboration, respect, and a shared commitment to the public good.
Are there any votes the incumbent has taken in the Legislature you disagree with? What are they and why would you have voted differently?
JOHNSON: I wouldn’t have voted for theft by contractor bill as we already have laws on the books, as the majority of contract workers are minority or undocumented this can set unintended legal territory and set many unanswered questions, nor vote for a pet fee charge for every pet. It has unintended consequences waiting to happen. The incumbent has repeatedly voted against the most vulnerable, and co-primed bills that do more harm than good. The incumbent was the only Democrat in 2024 to vote against a same-sex marriage constitutional resolution to change state constitution making it legal to do so, as well in 2026 the only Democrat to vote with Republicans on International Womens Day in an amendment to virtue signal against trans rights. I would have voted differently, because there are too many parallels as a black man to vote against any people to ensure they don’t have rights when people have been doing it for years.
Editors note: English addressed the 2026 vote in a Facebook post.
What is one bill, vote or other legislative action you’ve taken that you feel best demonstrates your qualification for reelection?
ENGLISH: One of the strongest examples of my qualifications for reelection is my record of sponsoring and co-sponsoring legislation that invests directly in children, families, and historically underserved communities. This year, I was especially proud to champion House Bill 26-1044, which focuses on equity in maternal health care, because every parent deserves access to safe, high-quality, and culturally responsive care regardless of race, income, or zip code. I have also advanced policies centered on youth grant opportunities, public education, food security, mental health, criminal justice reform, public safety, economic justice, and community investment. My approach to public safety prioritizes prevention, mental health resources, and community-based solutions that address root causes. Throughout my time in the Legislature, I have remained committed to advancing people-centered policies that strengthen families, expand opportunities, and create more equitable outcomes for Colorado communities.
House District 19
Anil: Not available
City of residence: Erie
Occupation: Software engineer, Erie Town Council member
Age: 47
City of residence: Unincorporated Weld County
Occupation: Former nonprofit director, small business owner
Age: 25
City of residence: Unincorporated Boulder County
Occupation: Small business owner
Where would you take an out-of-town friend to visit in your district?
PESARAMELLI: Dacono.
MCMILLAN: Union Reservoir is in the northwest part of House District 19, easily accessible to local residents. It’s close enough to my house that I’ve biked there with my kids with backpacks full of towels and snacks for a summer afternoon on the beach. I competed in my first sprint triathlon at Union Reservoir and trained for subsequent races during their summer evening open water swims. I have paddle boarded with my teens and sailed with friends who store a small boat at the Union Sailing Club. My son’s Cub Scout troop has held fireside ceremonies in the camping area. And all of this is done with spectacular views of Longs Peak and other Front Range peaks.
PLAHN: A hidden gem of House District 19 is the Dougherty Antique Car & Tractor Museum off Highway 287 near Erie. They host a yearly tractor fair and I go with my grandfather. We walk through the old steam-powered tractors and he explains how much changed for farmers and ranchers, like him, when those machines arrived. For a district developing as fast as HD19, remembering how much this district has grown matters.
What do residents in your district say are the community’s biggest issues, and how will you work to address it?
PESARAMELLI: Residents across Colorado House District 19 consistently tell me that affordability is their biggest concern. Families are struggling with rising costs of housing, groceries, childcare, healthcare, insurance, and utilities, while wages are not keeping pace. Many young families worry they may never be able to buy a home, and seniors are concerned about being priced out of the communities they helped build. Residents are also concerned about responsible growth, traffic, infrastructure, public safety, environmental protection, and protecting public education. People want growth to be planned responsibly so roads, schools, water infrastructure, and emergency services keep pace with development while preserving quality of life. As an Erie Town Council member, I’ve worked on practical solutions around infrastructure, community engagement, and responsible development. In the Legislature, I will focus on expanding affordable housing options, supporting universal healthcare and affordable childcare, strengthening public education, investing in infrastructure, protecting open spaces and air quality, and ensuring government is transparent and accountable to residents rather than special interests.
MCMILLAN: As a mother and small business owner, I see rising expenses create challenges for my family and company. Speaking with residents in House District 19, affordability is one of their top concerns, too. Ensuring that Coloradans have access to affordable housing is one of the reasons I am running to be your legislator. As your representative, I would support policies that increase the supply of affordable housing by streamlining permitting processes, supporting public-private partnerships, creating incentives for building starter homes and updating zoning laws. The environment is another issue that residents are concerned about. Corporate greed and AI data centers threaten clean air and water supplies. I have been endorsed by the Sierra Club. As this endorsement indicates, I am committed to being an advocate for our land, water, and air, ensuring that Colorado is a safe and healthy place to live. I plan on placing strong regulations on AI data centers that limit the energy and water they can take from our state. I have already and will continue to work with transit leaders to promote public transportation throughout House District 19, reducing air pollution from individual commutes.
PLAHN: At every door, the conversation comes back to the same thing: affordability. Residents in the district are feeling the pressure of the rising cost of living every day. For housing, that means rethinking zoning in our downtown areas and prioritizing missing middle housing. For utility prices, I want to build on House Bill 26-1007, Colorado’s new plug-in solar law, which allows renters to save thousands by using balcony solar systems and meter collar adapters. This also means working to prevent unchecked AI data center expansion, which leads to increased water and energy cost offloading onto consumers. This is exactly the kind of practical and accessible policy that puts money back in people’s pockets. For healthcare, I support Healthcare for All Colorado. They aim to create a public single-payer system, which could save Coloradans over a billion dollars.
Where can the state reduce spending, and how can Colorado return to a positive budget situation?
PESARAMELLI: Before cutting front-line services, I would look at optimizing internal operations: Upgrading legacy information technology systems, eliminating redundant bureaucratic processes across state agencies, and maximizing operational efficiencies. I will propose to perform a rigorous, data-driven performance audit. I will work towards prioritizing funding for programs with proven, measurable returns on investment. I will recommend underperforming initiatives or non-essential pilot programs to be scaled back or phased out.
MCMILLAN: It’s important to understand that Colorado spending is not suddenly wasteful; the Constitution requires a balanced budget each fiscal year. There are two main reasons why the Legislature had to make program cuts this year. First, huge tax breaks resulting from Trump’s Big Beautiful Bill put an approximately $1 billion hole in the state budget. Second, the Legislature is constricted by TABOR caps that prevent Colorado from saving money in prosperous years and from adequately increasing spending to match actual costs. For example, Medicaid spending increased 86% since 2018 while facing a TABOR cap that only increased 39%. These mismatched increases should be examined to see if they are the result of real costs or program inefficiencies. Earlier in 2026, $25 million in Medicaid transportation fraud was discovered. We can reduce spending by auditing state programs to find waste and mismanagement that costs Colorado tax payers. One specific area to audit is special tax concessions. When tax breaks are offered to specific industries, those incentives should be evaluated after three to five years to see if the industry is creating more jobs and economic growth in Colorado to offset the loss of that particular tax revenue.
PLAHN: I support bills like House Bill 26-1221 to reduce big business tax breaks, saving Coloradans millions of dollars. However, I believe legislators often overlook ways to increase state revenue, and I support new routes too, like a “vacancy tax” on vacation and investment properties that sit empty most of the year. We also have to acknowledge that the budget isn’t a math problem, it’s people’s lives and programs they depend on, so we must engineer ways to maintain essential programs, while balancing the budget. We see people leaving our state due to the affordability crisis, and now is not the time to invest less in them, but more in their opportunities and quality of life.
What policies should the state enact regarding the proliferation of data centers?
PESARAMELLI: The rapid proliferation of data centers brings valuable tech infrastructure but poses significant risks to Colorado’s electric grid and limited water supplies. To manage this growth responsibly, state policy should focus on guardrails for AI, grid stabilization, job protections, water conservation and rate payer protection.
MCMILLAN: The development of data centers in Colorado is a concern for me. While it is important that Colorado stays technologically advanced, it must not be at the expense of residents and our environment. There may, however, be an opportunity if we require data centers to get a certain portion of their energy from renewable sources. Colorado will then see more investment in our renewable energy infrastructure, which benefits everyone. The energy that data centers use should place an emphasis on green energy and must not result in rate increases for Colorado residents. Any incentives that Colorado offers should be for investing in the local communities and infrastructure that will be impacted by the data centers, not the data centers themselves. The Legislature’s focus needs to be community welfare, not corporate welfare. As a state, we need to transition to more green energy to balance out the electricity needs that data centers will call for. I will support tax incentives and other benefits for clean energy installation.
PLAHN: Colorado needs legislation that protects localities being targeted by large AI data center development, which has been shown to negatively affect residents by increasing costs while also decreasing water and air quality. From current economic reports, these large AI companies are over-leveraged, promising massive returns, built on a foundation of nothing. The benefits here do not outweigh the costs to the people or the environment. I support joining the city of Denver, as well as Larimer and Logan counties in their recent moratoriums on data centers.
What is your view on working across the aisle, and within your own party, to advance policy?
PESARAMELLI: I view bipartisanship as not about compromising your core principles; it’s about finding shared outcomes. When we put people first, we will get to solutions that are beneficial for people. I believe in effective governance, and it starts with recognizing that a good idea doesn’t care about political labels. My approach to advancing policy is built on a foundational engineering principle: you focus on the problem, look at the data, and build a coalition around the solution. Agreeing to disagree is important. I believe in bringing an analytical, consensus-building approach to our caucus. By focusing on evidence-based policy and clear returns on investment for taxpayers, I can unite around practical strategies that deliver tangible results. I have experience doing that as a council member for our town. We have a divided council.
MCMILLAN: I spent almost a decade as a leader in a nonpartisan political advocacy organization, helping to mobilize thousands of women who come from different ideological backgrounds and political parties to work together. We advocated for issues such as the Child Tax Credit, humane immigration and refugee reform, environmental protections, and pro-democracy measures. Real solutions for real people only happen when we approach every conversation with respect and humility. District 19 needs a leader who is committed to curiosity, listening, and problem solving. That’s me. I’d be honored to earn your vote in this primary election.
PLAHN: Governing requires compromise. I come from an engineering background where you solve problems with data, iteration, and collaboration. You do not hold out for a perfect solution when a good one can help families right now. If someone across the aisle has a better approach to lowering the cost of living, I want to hear it. That said, compromise has limits. I will not negotiate on women/LGBTQ+/immigrant/workers’ and voting rights. Within my own party, I am not interested in performative loyalty or cozying up with the establishment. I will advocate for ambitious policy that can pass and be implemented effectively, regardless of which party introduces it.
House District 31
Jacque Phillips (incumbent)
Age: 62
City of residence: Thornton
Occupation: State representative
Age: 27
City of residence: Thornton
Occupation: Operations manager and nonprofit operator
Where would you take an out-of-town friend to visit in your district?
PHILLIPS: I would take them to Thornton’s Americans with Disabilities Act-accessible archery range, which is a great example of what makes our community special. Our local Girl Scouts troop helped make the range a reality so more people, including people with disabilities, can participate and enjoy the sport. We’d wrap up the day at the taco truck near my office, because sometimes the best way to get to know a community is to sit down, eat good food and talk with the people who call it home.
CERVANTES: I would take them down to the food truck court off 84th Street and Conifer Road as the sun is going down. When it gets busy, you hear music playing everywhere, lifted and squatted trucks and cars are pulling through into the parking lots, and people are gathering and spending time with each other. There’s different kinds of vendors that sell different infusions of Mexican food and there is a selection of trucks that sell different dinners, desserts or other treats like elotes. People often think that this area is dangerous and to be avoided, but for those who actually live here, it’s a piece of home. It’s right where we should be. That’s what I love most about my district, sharing moments, food, and peace.
What do residents in your district say are the community’s biggest issues, and how will you work to address it?
PHILLIPS: The two issues I hear most often are affordability and community safety. Families are working hard, but housing, utilities, groceries, health care, and everyday costs are stretching people thin. At the same time, people want to feel safe in our neighborhoods, schools, parks and homes. My focus is on practical solutions that help people get ahead and stay rooted in their community. That means protecting affordable housing, increasing transparency so families are not blindsided by hidden costs, strengthening schools and public services, and supporting community-centered public safety that prevents problems before they become crises. I have always believed that government should work for everyday people, and that means listening closely, telling the truth, and delivering results people can feel in their daily lives.
CERVANTES: When we were building our platform, we wanted to hear directly from the community on what they wanted to see get done. The three most talked about issues were immigration and federal overreach, schools and affordability. When we asked people what they wanted to see specifically get done about the issues important to them, the top three answers we received became our policy platform — ban corporations from buying single-family housing in Colorado, hold large corporations accountable for their actions in our communities (revoke the waiver system for polluters that are fined by the state of Colorado), and create a legal pathway in Colorado to prosecute ICE agents. Something we have also seen gain quite a bit of worry from residents lately is the prevalence of corporate influence in our politics. People want to see less money and influence being exuded from massive corporations that stand to benefit the most from electing certain legislators who will serve them and not their communities. To address this, I’m the only candidate in this race who hasn’t accepted corporate PAC money, oil and gas money, and am the only Democrat not backed by MAGA Republicans, which is alarming to say in 2026.
Editor’s note: Asked to clarify his remark about MAGA-backed Democrats, Cervantes wrote in an email that his being “the only Democrat not backed by MAGA Republicans” refers to Phillips’ participation in a Colorado Opportunity Caucus retreat last year funded by One Main Street, a “dark money” group that has accepted money from conservative donors and the oil and gas industry, according to The Colorado Sun.
This was the second year in a row the Legislature had to make deep program cuts to balance the state budget. Where can the state reduce its spending, and what is your view on how Colorado can return to a positive budget situation?
PHILLIPS: Colorado is facing a very difficult budget reality, and we cannot pretend there are painless answers. This year’s budget debate centered on a roughly $1.2 to $1.5 billion shortfall, with lawmakers making reductions across departments, lowering reserves, and reducing spending while working hard to protect K-12 education and core health care services. I have focused my efforts on building a Colorado that works for working Coloradans by targeting programs that are not delivering results, duplicative administrative costs, unspent funds, and areas where stronger oversight can prevent waste, fraud, or abuse. We should not balance the budget on the backs of working families, seniors, students or people with disabilities. Long term, Colorado needs a more honest conversation about structural budget challenges, including the rising cost of health care, federal instability brought on by MAGA and Trump’s failed policies, and the limits placed on our ability to fund basic services. A positive budget situation will require discipline, transparency, economic growth, and a funding structure that allows Colorado to meet the needs of a growing state that prioritizes expanding our middle class and builds pathways to good paying, durable jobs.
CERVANTES: Conversations about the state budget will never be productive unless we are honest about repealing or reforming TABOR. Colorado doesn’t have a fiscal responsibility problem. It has a revenue problem. TABOR has restricted the budget of Colorado to be smaller than it should be. No amount of “fat trimming” or “lean spending” is going to fix that. We are in the equivalent of not making enough money to pay our bills, then being told to be smarter with our money. Many leaders across parties feel this way, including my opponent, but they’ll never say it out loud because it will cost them too much political capital. In addition, Colorado can shift its tax structures from an incentive system to a reward system. As seen with House Bill 26-1020, Colorado has a propensity to give tax incentives to massive corporations, which has led to a high chain and corporation presence all across the state. This has led Colorado to have minuscule small business rates, lower wages, and is still the hardest state to unionize in. Colorado should instead invest in local entrepreneurs who provide good wages and tax benefits if they meet corporate responsibility targets.
What policies should the state enact regarding the proliferation of data centers?
PHILLIPS: Data centers can bring investment and jobs, but Colorado needs clear guardrails so that our communities are never asked to absorb the costs. These facilities can require significant electricity and water, and residents must not be left paying higher utility bills or bearing the environmental impacts without accountability. Our ability to build deeply needed housing and services for our neighbors cannot be inhibited by a data center’s water use. I support policies that require transparency around energy and water use, ensure data centers pay their fair share for utility infrastructure, protect ratepayers, strengthen water stewardship, and give local communities a real voice in siting decisions. I also believe we should maintain strong labor standards so that any development creates good jobs, not just large profits such as enacting best value contracting so the work is done by local labor with good safety track records. The goal should be responsible growth, not blank checks.
CERVANTES: If data centers want to exist in Colorado, they have to pay their own way and be good stewards of the lands and communities they operate in. That means requiring closed-loop water systems, that means requiring greater than 90% renewable energy sources, requiring good union jobs in bids. It means doing environmental impact studies at proposed sites, during builds, following completion, and after usage. This includes acoustic impact studies and creating distancing setback requirements to how far away they can be from population centers. If Colorado wants to go the route of data center building, then companies need to be responsible. Coloradans have been sacrificed in the name of economic progress and it’s time we put that to a stop — If they aren’t willing to comply, then I would support legislation to halt their building here.
What is your view on working across the aisle, and within your own party, to advance policy?
PHILLIPS: I enjoy negotiation. My background as an attorney taught me that you have to understand how other people think, where they are coming from, and what problem they are trying to solve. That does not mean giving up your values. It means being clear about your goals, listening carefully, and finding the path that can actually get something done. After running nearly 10 bills this session, I have proven that I am committed to working with anyone who is serious about solving problems for working Coloradans. Sometimes that means working across the aisle. Sometimes it means having hard conversations within my own party. I believe people sent me to the Capitol to deliver results, not to perform politics for its own sake.
CERVANTES: In an interview with New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani, he was asked if he still believed if Trump was a fascist — in front of Trump. He said yes. More importantly in that conversation, Mamdani talked about how if Trump wanted to talk about making life more affordable for New Yorkers, he was all ears. He made it very clear that he was not interested in talking about Trump’s immigration policies, not about the actions of what many of us agree to be tyrannical, but if there was middle ground to be found on affordability for New Yorkers, Mamdani was willing to talk. This is exactly how I will approach my conversations with everyone at the Capitol. Not everyone I will collaborate with will believe in the same thing regarding healthcare, workers rights, or a plethora of other things. There are going to be progressive Democrats, staunch Bush style Republicans, and even corporate and MAGA-backed Democrats like my opponent. It’s inevitable that many of us will disagree on certain topics. More importantly though, the things that we do agree on, is where the work should be done and some incredible things can come of that.
What is one bill, vote or other legislative action you’ve taken that you feel best demonstrates your qualification for reelection?
PHILLIPS: House Bill 26-1145, the mobile home park water quality bill, is a strong example of the kind of work I came to the Capitol to do. Mobile homes are one of the few remaining sources of attainable housing for many low income Colorado families, and no one should have to cook with, drink, or bathe in water that is unsafe or unusable. This bill has strengthened protections for mobile home park residents by giving the state more ability to require remediation and enforce notice requirements when water quality problems are found. That bill matters because it is about dignity, safety, affordability, and accountability. It also reflects how I approach this job: listen to people who are too often ignored, identify a real problem, and do the work to fix it.
Are there any votes the incumbent has taken in the Legislature you disagree with? What are they and why would you have voted differently?
CERVANTES: The incumbent has taken some votes I very much disagree with. In 2025, she voted to lower the wages of the some-odd 80,000 tipped wage workers across the state. She has taken a pretty clearly anti-tenant stance at the Capitol, like voting no for limiting credit history requirements for tenants, she also voted against limiting security deposits to one month’s rent and bad-faith deposit withholding. This year, she voted against creating a pathway for leave of absences for legislators who work full-time. That would allow working-class leaders to enter the Legislature, like myself. She voted against regulating AI chatbots and voted against campaign consultant conflict-of-interest requirements. Renters in multi-family and single-family housing make up a large portion of our residents and to constantly vote against their interests for the interests of corporate landlords is antithetical to my integrity as a leader. I would absolutely have supported legislation to protect renters. I would also support regulating AI and campaign consultants, as I believe they are part of a larger system that induces corruption to benefit the ultra-wealthy instead of everyday Coloradans.
House District 33
Age: 50
City of residence: Broomfield
Occupation: Executive director, Broomfield Resettlement Task Force, Broomfield City Council member
Kenny Nguyen (incumbent)
Age: 31
City of residence: Broomfield
Occupation: State representative
Where would you take an out-of-town friend to visit in your district?
HENKEL: Being a combat military family, we often have friends over from out of state and take them to our amazing open spaces that we have worked as a council to gain 36% open space in Broomfield. We either go for a bike ride or head over at night and watch the drone light shows we have up north. Having families over often, we also head to the Bay waterpark or Paul Derda Recreation Center and any of our recreation centers and parks which we are known for! Lastly, if we are together during an event like Broomfield Days or our July 4th picnic, I make sure I share what our wonderful nonprofits are doing in Broomfield with Broomfield FISH, the Refuge, Broomfield Community Foundation, Broomfield Chamber, and more. Lastly, I’m a huge supporter of our local small businesses and like to share good food and activities locally that support local business owners.
NGUYEN: Broomfield has a rich culture and has always had a small town vibe with plenty to do. I grew up around the area and have fond memories of visiting Flatirons Mall and volunteering my time at Broomfield FISH. I would take an out-of-town friend to my favorite spot which is the Asian Market in Broomfield and probably Pho Duy, one of my favorites restaurants in our area. I’d also likely take my friend to see all the open spaces and public lands as well.
What do residents in your district say are the community’s biggest issues, and how will you work to address it?
HENKEL: Affordability, local control, water conservation, fighting the federal chaos. As a woman, parent, public school teacher, nonprofit leader resettling refugees and small business owner, I know what it’s like to feel financially strained. I voted against raising water rates and advocated for tax rebates for all, especially for those on fixed incomes. We face a housing crisis: first-time buyers are 40, but many in their 20s want homes. It’s why I fought for first-time home buyer mortgage assistance and will keep fighting at the state level for middle market housing for home ownership and increasing housing supply. I spearheaded successful citywide efforts to cut red tape and topple barriers to more affordable and attainable housing for working families but we need statewide changes to increase our housing supply, move the needle on middle market housing and ensure our homeownership is for people, not corporations. I have and continue to work with our local housing authority to look for opportunities to create more pathways to home ownership and generational wealth-building, with a particular focus on historical inequities in communities of color and adults with disabilities that still persist today. I will address the other issues in the other questions.
NGUYEN: The people of House District 33 are facing the affordability crisis and more specifically housing affordability and scarcity. Housing and rent costs are becoming out of reach for many families. The way that I have been working to address this issue is by supporting legislation that increases affordable housing, and allows for more housing options and reinvesting state dollars to these goals. As a member of the Transportation, Housing, and Local Government committee this session, I was at the forefront of helping to pass legislation aimed at solving the housing affordability issue and have supported bills such as House Bill 26-1001 (HOME Act), House Bill 26-1120, House Bill 26-1313, as well as, Senate Bill 26-001, Senate Bill 26-053, and Senate Bill 26-155. In addition, I worked with Rep. Brianna Titone and Sens. Chris Kolker and Janice Marchman in introducing and passing House Bill 26-1099 which creates transparency and addresses HOA accountability.
This was the second year in a row the Legislature had to make deep program cuts to balance the state budget. Where can the state reduce its spending, and what is your view on how Colorado can return to a positive budget situation?
HENKEL: Colorado families have had to tighten their budgets because of rising costs, and state government can do the same while considering new long-term solutions like a graduated income tax. A graduated income tax means people contribute based on what they earn so those making less pay less, while higher earners contribute a little more. Under the current proposal, 97% of Coloradans would pay the same or less, while households earning over $500,000 annually would pay more. The measure could generate more than $2 billion for priorities like public schools, healthcare, and childcare. At the same time, Colorado needs a disciplined budgeting approach that reviews programs for duplication and inefficiency while prioritizing education, public safety, infrastructure, healthcare priorities, and essential services. We also need policies that strengthen the economy and lower costs for families by supporting affordable housing, workforce development, childcare access and business growth. Colorado’s budget challenges require responsible fiscal management, long-term planning, and accountability so we are not forced into repeated emergency cuts year after year. Being ahead of Trump’s cruel cuts, versus being reactionary, is where we need to forge pathways of resiliency.
NGUYEN: We’re a blue state with a red state budget and that is because of TABOR. We will have to likely do more budget cuts next year as well and it pains me to see this. I did not run for public office to strip away the state’s budget and it breaks my heart to see us continue to do so. We must have TABOR reform or find ways to balance the budget, we cannot keep cutting and it will not be sustainable. I hope that we can pass a graduated income tax initiative and support in the passage of Senate Bill 26-135, State Public K-12 Education Funding, which would allocate TABOR surplus to an estimated 2% annual for the next ten years.
What policies should the state enact regarding the proliferation of data centers?
HENKEL: As a trained Climate Reality Ambassador, I know that water conservation and energy use is extremely paramount. When I helped pass Senate Bill 19-181, local control on oil and gas in the Legislature, Broomfield led the efforts for the state and data center policy will be no different. Fellow Councilmember Laurie Anderson, a fellow climate champion, and I are working on policies on data centers, touring the ones that have closed loop systems, conserving water, and I will maintain local control a priority, the right to deny permits, making sure rate payers are not footing the energy bill, and use labor standards to ensure quality good paying jobs are maintained. Broomfield already has data centers, houses tech employees, and knows that cloud storage is something we use already, but with AI usage now, we need to be extremely mindful of large load data centers and its impacts as a state, knowing full well they are less regulated in Wyoming and Utah where our union members travel to work, which hurts our greenhouse gas emission reduction goals. We need to meet our greenhouse gas emission reduction goals, regulate the infrastructure, and Google is one example of a company working on this.
NGUYEN: With any new emerging technology or machine learning system, we as legislators must consider all of the effects that are associated with data centers. While data centers do have some economic benefits and the potential for job creation, there are many concerns including increased energy demand, increased demand for water, increased potential for pollution and noise pollution and competing uses of land. In a time where we already have energy and water shortages, introducing data centers as a customer of such products would lead to increased prices for energy and water while having the potential to decrease the availability of energy and water for Coloradans across the state. Policy is needed to increase access to energy and water for constituents while also limiting how much energy and water data centers can consume. Other policies that we need to enact would concern the zoning of data centers so Coloradans are not adversely affected by noise pollution and other forms of pollution while also encouraging data centers to implement cleaner methods of energy production such that pollution may be reduced as much as possible.
What is your view on working across the aisle, and within your own party, to advance policy?
HENKEL: Working on real kitchen table issues that we all share as neighbors, while not giving up access to simple human rights being stripped away at the federal level is important. Job creation, data privacy, and taking care of our children and aging populations are key. I initiated nonprofit work in refugee resettlement, resettling over 120 Ukrainian and Afghan refugees and worked across the aisle expediting work authorizations at the federal level alongside Republicans, while working within the Democratic party on language access in employment and mental health programs. I have also been working with fellow electeds across Colorado on data privacy issues, as we see inequities in surveillance, knowing full well law enforcement finds missing children and lost aging parents using public data programs. See more here on this shared work on the Colorado Privacy Act. It is a bipartisan working document and feedback is welcomed.
NGUYEN: Colorado is a diverse state with various perspectives concerning legislation. Each perspective is shaped by the standards of living and the various beliefs that are associated with where a person may live across the state. Our job as legislators is to create policy that best serves all Coloradans which is why I view it as necessary to work across the aisle and to work with members within my own party that have different perspectives. I’m proud to have a bipartisan bill this session with Rep. Larry Suckla in House Bill 26-1095, Digital Publication for Legal Notice, which permits local municipalities to publish legal notices online. Another bipartisan bill that I was part of was protecting the privacy of residents. Senate Bill 26-70 addresses license plate readers (LPR), commonly known as Flock cameras because of the primary company involved. LPRs do not simply keep track of license plates; they record data on car make, vehicle colors, driver racial profiles, and geographic locations of vehicles. SB-70 would have placed guardrails on data retention by private companies and requires a judicial warrant by law enforcement agencies (including ICE) seeking LPR data.
Are there any votes the incumbent has taken in the Legislature you disagree with? What are they and why would you have voted differently?
HENKEL: While my opponent was installed with a small vacancy committee, I am glad the general electorate will have a say in the primary on who represents them. Having served on council for six years, and he has served just two years, some key differences were that I voted to keep water rates lower, advocated for tax rebates for all, and preserved local control and, at the Legislature, the stark differences are no different. The Broomfield Mayor, Guyleen Castriotta, wrote an opinion piece in support of my efforts to preserve public hearings on housing. I am a huge advocate of income-aligned housing, and streamlining and zoning changes where appropriate, and want to preserve public hearings so the residents can give feedback, versus where the state has been heading, which is to eliminate public voices on housing developments and zoning changes. Lastly, our city and county has had higher costs due to state mandates, and he voted not to address local impacts on increasing costs locally due to state mandates on House Bill 26-1140 which shocked our county commissioners and city councilmembers who are often mitigating state mandates that impact increased residents’ costs locally.
What is one bill, vote or other legislative action you’ve taken that you feel best demonstrates your qualification for election following your appointment?
NGUYEN: There are many bills and votes that I’m proud of. I was a co-prime sponsor for 10 bills for the 75th Legislative Session. Some of my legislative achievements that I’m proud of have been bills such as House Bill 26-1335, Abortion Medication Access on College Campuses, House Bill 26-1320, Accessible Language Statutory Ballot Title Requirements, House Bill 26-1318 Traffic Safety Near Schools, and House Bill 26-1416 Transfers to General Fund & Colorado Economic Development Fund. Each of these bills took an enormous amount of stakeholding and within a difficult year of budget cuts and being a freshman lawmaker, we were able to get it done. From sponsoring bills to voting on difficult bills, I believe that I can show that a young progressive elected official like myself can do the work. I’m committed to serving the people of Colorado with integrity and respect, and uplifting marginalized voices in this time of division. My hope is to bridge divisions and to serve all of House District 33.
House District 41
Jamie Jackson (incumbent)
Age: Not available
City of residence: Aurora
Occupation: State representative
Age: 45
City of residence: Aurora
Occupation: Educator, Aurora school board member
Where would you take an out-of-town friend to visit in your district?
JACKSON: House District 41 reflects the diversity, energy and resilience that make Aurora special. I would probably start with a local restaurant along Havana Street because our district is home to incredible immigrant-owned small businesses and some of the best food in the state. I would also take them to Utah Park or the High Line Canal trail system to show how connected our community is to outdoor recreation and family-centered spaces. If timing allowed, I’d want them to attend a local cultural festival or community event because House District 41 is one of the most diverse districts in Colorado, and that diversity is truly one of our greatest strengths.
KEKE: I would take them to visit Lucy Coffee Shop for an African coffee ceremony. This shop is owned by my friend Mickie and is a pillar of the African community and a hangout for many of the local African business owners and community members. It truly represents how our community is becoming a part of the fabric of Aurora, and shows how immigrants like me are working to make the American Dream a reality for ourselves.
What do residents in your district say are the community’s biggest issues, and how will you work to address it?
JACKSON: The biggest concerns I hear about every day are affordability, housing costs, health care access, behavioral health supports and immigration-related concerns. House District 41 is one of the most diverse districts in Colorado, and many families are navigating fear and uncertainty around immigration policies while also trying to keep up with rising costs and provide stability for their children. My approach has been to focus on practical policies that improve everyday life for working families. That includes supporting affordable housing and transit investments, expanding access to behavioral health care and substance use treatment, strengthening workforce opportunities, and lowering barriers to economic stability. I also believe every family deserves to feel safe accessing schools, health care and community resources. At the core of my work is the belief that government should help create opportunity, stability and dignity for the people we serve.
KEKE: Affordability is the biggest issue facing House District 41 as well as Colorado. Going back to my example above, Mickie can tell you how supply chain disruptions caused by Trump’s tariffs and war of choice against Iran are making it harder to make ends meet, which in turn is driving up the prices he needs to charge for coffee and snacks to stay afloat. This is just one small example of how the cost of everything is making it harder and harder for folks to live — we also see increased costs for health care, housing, education, and energy negatively impacting people’s quality of life. I’d work to address this issue by prioritizing our limited dollars towards supporting folks who are struggling, work to cut red tape for building housing and small businesses, working to increase oversight of government programs to make sure we’re funding things that truly make an impact, expanding what works, and considering cutting what doesn’t.
This was the second year in a row the Legislature had to make deep program cuts to balance the state budget. Where can the state reduce its spending, and what is your view on how Colorado can return to a positive budget situation?
JACKSON: Colorado’s budget challenges are real, and we have to approach them thoughtfully while protecting the services families rely on. We should continue evaluating programs for duplication, inefficiency and outcomes, but we also have to be honest about the larger structural issues driving these shortfalls. Recent federal actions under H.R.1 have created additional uncertainty for states and put pressure on programs Coloradans depend on, including health care, food assistance and other critical supports. At the same time, Colorado operates under TABOR, which limits the state’s ability to retain and spend revenue above the TABOR cap even as our population grows and costs increase. That creates difficult choices for investments in schools, transportation, behavioral health and public safety systems. I believe Colorado needs a balanced approach that includes strong economic growth, accountability and serious conversations about TABOR. We cannot continue asking communities to do more with less while limiting our ability to adequately fund schools, transportation, behavioral health and other critical services Coloradans rely on.
KEKE: We can and must address TABOR by allowing the state to increase revenue and hold on to excess revenue. It’s clear that the current restraints are not working as intended and are getting in the way of providing new and longtime residents with the services they need to thrive. That’s only part of the solution. We also need to work on building the positive side of the ledger by making Colorado a more attractive place to live and build a life. We are seeing small and medium-sized businesses close or leave the state, which, combined with the spiraling cost of living, is leading to fewer opportunities for people to make a living that allows them to live here, which is leading to a declining state population, which puts more pressure on our ability to bring in needed revenue. I’m not sure that we can cut our way out of this problem because many of the programs being cut are important to ensuring the long-term health of the state, both literally in terms of ensuring access to healthcare, but also figuratively in training the next generation of teachers, improving our roads and infrastructure, and making sure we have a vibrant economy.
What policies should the state enact regarding the proliferation of data centers?
JACKSON: Data centers present both economic opportunities and significant infrastructure concerns. Colorado should take a balanced approach that encourages innovation and job growth while protecting communities, consumers and natural resources. I believe the state should require greater transparency around energy consumption, water usage and long-term impacts on the electrical grid before approving large-scale projects. In a drought-prone state like Colorado, water demands and sustainability must be carefully considered. We also need policies that ensure residential ratepayers are not unfairly burdened with increased utility costs associated with high-energy-demand facilities. If Colorado is going to continue exploring data center development, it cannot come at the expense of host communities, ratepayers or our natural resources. Colorado should prioritize projects that incorporate renewable energy, strong labor standards and workforce development opportunities while ensuring local residents have a meaningful voice in decisions that affect infrastructure, land use and quality of life. Communities deserve clear information about environmental impacts, grid reliability and economic benefits. This requires a balanced approach that considers businesses, workers, residents and local communities alike.
KEKE: The reality is these data centers are deeply unpopular for a variety of reasons, chief among them the concerns about increasing consumer energy prices and water usage when our state is already struggling with drought conditions. I think it’s important to push the companies that need these data centers to innovate and address these concerns. Right now, policy is woefully unprepared for this proliferation and the seemingly endless demand for data, and the resources necessary to meet the demand. I think the Legislature should study this issue and work to create guardrail policies that protect consumers while balancing the desire for increased economic opportunity and good union jobs for building and maintenance of these projects. Most importantly, the state should not attempt to intrude upon local control and home rule efforts on these projects, and we should allow those elected officials, who are closest to the citizens they represent make the decisions on these issues.
What is your view on working across the aisle, and within your own party, to advance policy?
JACKSON: Effective governing requires collaboration. I’ve run bipartisan legislation before, and while we may not always see eye to eye on every issue, I believe we can and should work together where there is common ground to deliver meaningful results for the people we serve. Some of the most meaningful legislation I’ve worked on has involved bringing together stakeholders with very different perspectives, including advocates, health care providers, labor organizations, financial institutions, community leaders and businesses. I believe strong policy comes from listening carefully, understanding unintended consequences and being willing to improve legislation throughout the process. Within my own party, I also believe it is important to have honest conversations about affordability, implementation and long-term impact. Legislators should be focused not just on passing bills, but on whether those policies can be implemented effectively and meaningfully improve people’s lives. My approach has always been grounded in problem solving, relationship building and staying focused on outcomes rather than political performance. In a diverse district like House District 41, people expect leaders who can bring others together and get things done.
KEKE: I have a proven record of working with people I agree with and disagree with to move policies that positively impact constituents. My view is that no one has a monopoly on good ideas, and that no one, including myself, can see the potential impact of a policy decision. We can and should take multiple perspectives and try to get policy right the first time, while also having the humility to acknowledge when we get things wrong and be willing to change. This is true regardless of party. That said, I do have lines in the sand that I will not cross, especially when it comes to policies that impact my communities, including House District 41, immigrant, education, and Aurora generally. So, to summarize: negotiate where you can, hold firm where you must.
What is one bill, vote or other legislative action you’ve taken that you feel best demonstrates your qualification for reelection?
JACKSON: It is difficult to point to just one bill because meaningful change rarely happens through a single piece of legislation. I believe effective governing requires building policies that work together to strengthen communities and support the people most impacted by systemic challenges. That includes legislation I’ve worked on to expand behavioral health access, improve reentry outcomes, protect vulnerable older adults from financial exploitation, advance workforce protections, and strengthen continuity of care for individuals transitioning out of long-term care settings. One thing I value deeply is listening to the people directly impacted by an issue and working alongside community members, advocates and stakeholders to craft legislation that helps solve real problems in people’s lives. The best policy solutions come from collaboration and from understanding how decisions will affect people in practice, not just on paper. What best demonstrates my qualification for reelection is not only the policies themselves, but the approach behind them, bringing people together, focusing on implementation and working to deliver meaningful outcomes for the communities we serve.
Are there any votes the incumbent has taken in the Legislature you disagree with? What are they and why would you have voted differently?
KEKE: The bill that comes to mind is House Bill 26-1271. While I agree in principle with the need to support mental health and alcohol and substance abuse recovery, I feel like this bill was half-baked as introduced and did not take into consideration the impacts an increased tax on alcohol would have on small businesses in our community, many of which are owned by people of color and migrants, or how it would contribute to making our state less affordable for working class people through regressive sales tax. If this concept were to come before me, I would do a lot more stakeholder engagement to make sure I wasn’t harming the people I was elected to represent, and would likely encourage trusting the voters of Colorado to weigh in. If we truly believe this is a good idea, we should be able to sell it to the voters, as we did for sports betting, tobacco, and marijuana to fund, respectively, improved water infrastructure, early childhood education, and school construction.
House District 42
Mandy Lindsay (incumbent)
Age: Not available
City of residence: Aurora
Occupation: State representative
Age: 42
City of residence: Aurora
Occupation: CEO of The Cannabis Experience, founder of The Color of Cannabis
Lindsay did not return a questionnaire.
Where would you take an out-of-town friend to visit in your district?
WOODSON: Downtown Aurora is a hidden gem of Colorado. I would start with a show at the Fox Arts Center to support local arts and culture, followed by a visit to Society 303 to experience the energy of our local entrepreneurs and artists. Over a weekend, we would visit the Stanley Marketplace, the Town Center at Aurora, and Barnes & Noble. I would also include the Aurora History Museum because it beautifully reflects the rich history and diversity of our community. House District 42 is incredibly diverse, and the best way to experience it is through the people, small businesses, and local spaces that bring our residents together.
What do residents in your district say are the community’s biggest issues, and how will you work to address it?
WOODSON: Public safety is a primary concern, though perspectives on it vary. Some residents prioritize policing accountability, while others feel law enforcement needs more support to address crime. I believe both views deserve thoughtful solutions. One of my core priorities is the mental health and wellness of police officers, who regularly experience trauma in the line of duty. Requiring mental health check-ins and trauma-informed training — including ride-alongs with clinicians — can improve outcomes and build community trust. Residents are also concerned about affordability, economic opportunity, and mental health access. As an Aurora native and small business owner, I am committed to community-centered solutions that reduce poverty and improve quality of life.
This was the second year in a row the Legislature had to make deep program cuts to balance the state budget. Where can the state reduce its spending, and what is your view on how Colorado can return to a positive budget situation?
WOODSON: Colorado needs an education-based public service campaign to help voters understand how TABOR impacts our ability to fund essential services. Simultaneously, we must evaluate where spending can be better allocated. I believe we should review the long-term costs of private prisons and instead focus resources on mental health services, drug and alcohol treatment, and preventative care to reduce the strain on our criminal justice system. To return to a positive budget situation, we must invest in economic growth, workforce development, and infrastructure. This requires strategic, long-term planning and fiscal responsibility rather than short-term fixes.
What policies should the state enact regarding the proliferation of data centers?
WOODSON: Data centers are becoming a major part of Colorado’s economy, and we must regulate them responsibly. I believe the state should establish guardrails regarding water usage, energy consumption, and community impact while still encouraging innovation. As artificial intelligence and advanced technology continue to shape our lives, our policies must balance sustainability and infrastructure needs with economic opportunity. Additionally, large data centers should contribute fairly to the infrastructure demands they create to ensure our communities are protected as Colorado continues to grow.
What is your view on working across the aisle, and within your own party, to advance policy?
WOODSON: Bipartisan policymaking is essential because the most effective policies are built through collaboration and compromise. In a successful negotiation, the focus remains on what benefits the people rather than any one party getting everything they want. Even within the Democratic Party, there are diverse perspectives on how to achieve goals like healthcare access and economic opportunity. Strong leadership requires a willingness to listen, build relationships, and work through disagreements respectfully. My approach is centered on finding practical solutions that improve lives rather than contributing to political division.
Are there any votes the incumbent has taken in the Legislature you disagree with? What are they and why would you have voted differently?
WOODSON: My campaign is focused on the future of House District 42 and the need for stronger community-centered leadership. After six years of incumbent leadership, our district still faces serious challenges regarding poverty, mental health access, and public safety. One issue I strongly disagreed with was the handling of House Bill 26-1301, sponsored by Sen. Judy Amabile and Rep. Bob Marshall, which would have helped bring a new 50-bed state mental health facility and critical mental health resources to our community. When this proposal came before the Capital Development Committee, our representative was absent for the vote. Legislators can arrange for another member to sit in and carry a vote on their behalf when they know they will be absent, and that did not happen here. To me, that was a direct failure of representation for the district. This was an opportunity to fight for more mental health beds, jobs, and long-term investment in a district that is struggling with significant mental health and public safety challenges. Even if the bill ultimately faced obstacles, our community deserved someone willing to show up and fight for it. Leadership means being present when it matters most.
Senate District 3
Age: Not available
City of residence: Pueblo
Occupation: Attorney
Age: 32
City of residence: Pueblo
Occupation: Director of Philanthropy, Sangre de Cristo Community Care
Gutierrez did not return a questionnaire.
Where would you take an out-of-town friend to visit in your district?
VOSS: If I were showing an out-of-town friend Senate District 3, I would want them to experience the natural beauty, agricultural heritage, and unique culture of Pueblo County. We would start with a bike ride along the Arkansas River Trail and make our way to Lake Pueblo State Park, one of the region’s greatest outdoor assets and a destination that attracts visitors from across Colorado. Next, I would take them to visit one of our family farms and introduce them to Pueblo’s most famous agricultural product: Pueblo Chile. Agriculture remains a cornerstone of our economy and identity, and there is no better way to understand Southern Colorado than by meeting the families who have worked this land for generations and tasting locally grown chile.We would then head downtown to walk along the Historic Arkansas Riverwalk, a symbol of Pueblo’s revitalization and resilience, and stop for lunch at Shamrock Brewing Company. To end the day, we’d enjoy a slopper at Gray’s Coors Tavern, a true Pueblo tradition. More than anything, I would want visitors to leave with an appreciation for the hardworking people, strong communities, and unique character that make Pueblo County such a special place to call home.
What do residents in your district say are the community’s biggest issues, and how will you work to address it?
VOSS: The issues I hear about most often from residents are crime and public safety, economic opportunity, and public education. These concerns are interconnected and will be my top priorities in the State Senate. Public safety is fundamental to a strong community. Families deserve to feel safe in their neighborhoods, and businesses deserve an environment where they can grow and invest. I support strengthening partnerships between law enforcement, behavioral health providers, schools, and community organizations to address both crime and its root causes. We must support first responders while expanding access to mental health and substance misuse treatment programs that help prevent crime before it occurs. Residents also want more economic opportunity and better-paying jobs. Too many young people leave Pueblo because they believe opportunity exists elsewhere. I will focus on attracting new industries, supporting small businesses, investing in workforce development, and strengthening career pathways that connect students directly to good-paying jobs. Finally, I believe strong public schools are essential to our future. As a former school board president, I understand the importance of investing in educators, career and technical education, and student success. Strong schools create a stronger workforce, safer communities, and a more prosperous future for Pueblo County.
This was the second year in a row the Legislature had to make deep program cuts to balance the state budget. Where can the state reduce its spending, and what is your view on how Colorado can return to a positive budget situation?
VOSS: Colorado’s budget challenges require discipline, transparency, and a focus on long-term sustainability. Before reducing services that directly impact families, students, seniors, and public safety, I believe the state should carefully evaluate existing programs to determine which are producing measurable results and which are not. Government should regularly review programs for effectiveness, eliminate duplication, improve efficiency, and ensure taxpayer dollars are being spent responsibly. At the same time, we must recognize that many of Colorado’s budget challenges stem from structural constraints and increasing demands on state services. Returning to a stronger fiscal position will require a balanced approach that includes responsible spending, economic growth, and thoughtful long-term planning. One of the best ways to improve the state’s financial outlook is to grow the economy. Expanding our workforce, supporting small businesses, attracting private investment, and creating more high-paying jobs generate revenue without increasing tax burdens on working families. We should also prioritize investments that produce long-term returns, including education, workforce development, infrastructure, and public safety. My approach is simple: focus on results, eliminate waste, support economic growth, and ensure taxpayers can trust that every dollar is being spent wisely.
What policies should the state enact regarding the proliferation of data centers?
VOSS: Data centers represent both a significant economic opportunity and a significant infrastructure challenge for Colorado. They can bring investment, construction jobs, and long-term economic activity, but they also consume large amounts of energy, water, and land. State policy should balance economic development with responsible resource management. I believe Colorado should welcome data center investment when projects demonstrate clear benefits to local communities and do not place unreasonable burdens on existing infrastructure. Any incentives offered should be tied to measurable economic outcomes, including job creation, workforce development partnerships, and local investment commitments. At the same time, data centers must be held to reasonable standards regarding energy efficiency, water conservation, and grid reliability. As Colorado continues pursuing clean energy goals, we must ensure that rapid growth in electricity demand does not increase costs for residential consumers or existing businesses. The state should also encourage collaboration between utilities, local governments, economic development organizations, and technology companies to ensure thoughtful planning. Communities should have a meaningful voice in decisions that affect local resources and infrastructure. With the right policies, Colorado can attract technology investment while protecting affordability, sustainability, and quality of life for residents and businesses alike.
What is your view on working across the aisle, and within your own party, to advance policy?
VOSS: I believe the most effective leaders are those who can build relationships, find common ground, and deliver results. While political parties play an important role in shaping priorities, the people we represent care far more about solving problems than partisan labels. Throughout my career, I have worked with people from diverse backgrounds and political viewpoints. During my service on the Pueblo School District 60 Board of Education, I helped navigate difficult challenges that required collaboration among educators, families, community leaders, labor organizations, business leaders, and elected officials. Whether it was supporting teachers during the 2018 strike, building a coalition to pass a historic $218 million school bond, or leading through the COVID-19 pandemic, success depended on bringing people together around shared goals. I believe that same approach is needed at the State Capitol. There will be times when I agree with members of my own party and times when I may disagree. Likewise, there will be opportunities to work with Republicans on issues where we share common interests, including public safety, economic development, infrastructure, and workforce growth. My focus will always be on what is best for Pueblo County.
Senate District 21
Adrienne Benavidez (incumbent)
Age: Not available
City of residence: Unincorporated Adams County
Occupation: State senator
Age: 35
City of residence: Unincorporated Adams County
Occupation: Teacher
Benavidez did not return a questionnaire.
Editor’s note: This story was updated at 10 a.m. on June 11 to reflect that Benavidez lives in unincorporated Adams County.
Where would you take an out-of-town friend to visit in your district?
RYCKMAN: I know this is very food centered but breakfast at Mr. Egg or Tasty Donuts, lunch at Paisano’s, afternoon coffee at Subjective Coffee and dinner at Las Delicias. Or we could just go all in and spend the day at the Mile High Flea Market eating elotes, browsing antiques and doing the big slide! This district has amazing food and awesome things to do. I love my community and am truly that person that will drive you all around to show you old spaces, take you to good food and highlight what makes us special.
What do residents in your district say are the community’s biggest issues, and how will you work to address it?
RYCKMAN: I think that affordability is the biggest issue that I hear about from my community. I typically respond by bringing up how privatization is to blame for a lot of our rising costs and problems. I want to address this by increasing protections for workers, especially when so many people live paycheck to paycheck. Affordability would be less of a problem if we all were paid a fair wage and were respected for the work that we do. I also want to fully fund schools so we aren’t constantly putting pressure on small businesses and property taxes through mill levies to supplement where the state is not able to fund us. Finally, I think that we need to invest in Colorado and keep our tax dollars in our state by supporting local businesses and universities rather than supporting private companies and outside interests to “fix” things we can handle on our own.
This was the second year in a row the Legislature had to make deep program cuts to balance the state budget. Where can the state reduce its spending, and what is your view on how Colorado can return to a positive budget situation?
RYCKMAN: I would be interested to know how anyone would reduce spending when we’ve cut at least $1 billion from the budget every year for the past two years. I don’t know how much longer we can sustain such a deficit every year. The people of Colorado have deemed which programming is most important and we need to honor them and fund schools, healthcare, and sustainable options. I think we need to first address TABOR and how it limits funding. We also need to elect officials that we trust to spend our money wisely without special interests. But until then, we need to sharpen our magnifying glass on privatization and organizations that are taking advantage of taxpayer money.
What policies should the state enact regarding the proliferation of data centers?
RYCKMAN: I think that if we want to truly be proactive instead of reactive, we need to invest in education around the dangers and the necessity of data centers. With the constant discussion of the cloud, it is easy to think of data as not needing a physical home, but centers to store our information are not going away. Police body cameras are a great example of a policy that I strongly support that also comes with a massive amount of data that has to be stored on servers somewhere. When it comes to AI data centers, that is a different conversation. That does not mean that I think the areas of my district that continue to be taken advantage of should get flooded with new AI data centers and that our water and energy should just pour into these facilities. We need to look at policies that regulate the use of AI and its impact on our communities and our world, more than just thinking that by stopping data centers in our community, we are stopping the problem.
What is your view on working across the aisle, and within your own party, to advance policy?
RYCKMAN: We get places by doing work together. I am a teacher. If I just had my own worldview and didn’t listen to others or seek to understand, then I would not still be in my profession. We have to start working together to find common ground and shared values. I am adamantly against the two items on our ballot in November attacking trans children. For me, that is because I believe in trans rights and support their right to be who they are. I think all children should be allowed to be themselves and their guardians should be able to walk alongside them and support them in their journey. I believe that the government has no business checking my daughter’s gender and many of my friends, colleagues, and constituents, no matter their affiliation, share this view. My job in the state Senate is to represent all of District 21, and that means I don’t get to just listen to folks who believe the same things that I do. I will seek to understand rather than be understood in this office, and when we do disagree I promise to take the time to explain the why behind my choice.
Are there any votes the incumbent has taken in the Legislature you disagree with? What are they and why would you have voted differently?
RYCKMAN: I disagree with the incumbent’s legislation around school board qualifications, Senate Bill 26-166. The proposed bill would prohibit people from serving on a school board based on certain drug charges and time since conviction. Voters should have the ability to decide who they believe is best suited to represent them. If someone does not feel a candidate is qualified or fit to serve, they have the power to make that decision at the ballot box. We have a justice system that’s supposed to be centered on rehabilitation, and I cannot stand by policy that further stigmatizes people who have already been penalized and are looking to give back to their community. I will also name that my largest disappointment with my opponent has been the lack of communication about the legislative session. Communication and engagement with constituents throughout the session has been limited. I have seen very few opportunities for community input through town halls, public updates, or updates at the end of session. Representation should involve listening, communicating openly, and keeping constituents informed, and that is something I would prioritize as your representative.
Senate District 34
Age: 34
City of residence: Denver
Occupation: Environmental nonprofit executive director
Age: 33
City of residence: Denver
Occupation: Nonprofit director
Where would you take an out-of-town friend to visit in your district?
GARCIA IRLANDO: There are too many amazing options for one! We could spend several days in Senate District 34. First, we’d grab a coffee at Convivio and take a walk around Sloan’s Lake. Since we’d have our kids with us, we’d have to stop at the rocketship playground at Sloan’s. Then, we could hop across Federal Boulevard to visit Meow Wolf to escape the heat and enjoy amazing interactive and sensory art. For lunch, we’d grab a banh mi sandwich and boba from New Saigon Bakery and Deli, then we’d hop on our bikes, take the Weir Gulch Trail to the South Platte River Trail and head towards downtown. We’d stop by Elitch’s to cool off in their water park and get on some thrilling rides. Then, we’d end the night watching a Rockies game or hanging out at Inspiration Point, the best sunset in the city.
CARRERA: First, I would take them to eat some of the best tacos at El Taco de Mexico, the James Beard award-winning, all-woman taqueria located off Santa Fe and 7th Avenue, and I would time the visit around First Friday so we could see all of the incredible art exhibits on display in the area afterward. First Friday is my all-time favorite Denver tradition. But no trip to West Denver would be complete without a visit to Sloan’s Lake, or the adjacent Odell Brewhouse, so we’d have to check that off our list, too. On Sunday, we’d go up to the Highlands Square Farmers Market off Lowell Boulevard and 32nd Avenue and buy coffee from Café Zuri owners Tomas and Mariana, who also have some of the best Czech pastries you’ll ever try. We’d finish it off with a visit to Larimer Square (can’t leave out the most Instagrammable spot in town), Union Station, and Coors Field or Empower Field at Mile High, depending on whether the Rockies or the Broncos are in season.
What do residents in your district say are the community’s biggest issues, and how will you work to address it?
GARCIA IRLANDO: Affordability, first and foremost. The extremely high cost of living continues to outpace wages, forcing families to make difficult financial choices, take on lifelong debt, and face displacement away from the communities they love and are rooted in. I support rent stabilization for both residents and small businesses alike, building more multifamily housing that is actually affordable for people, bans on corporate ownership of single-family homes, and prohibiting algorithmic rent pricing. I plan to expand protections for workers to ensure better wages and working conditions because our workforce drives our local economy. Check out ChelaForColorado.Com for more information on how I plan to address affordability and inequality, both in my district and across Colorado.
CARRERA: When I’m knocking on doors and speaking with residents, they all say the same thing: costs are high, wages are low, and so is their tolerance of a hostile White House that seems focused on terrorizing our communities with ICE raids rather than solving actual problems. As a son of immigrants who grew up watching his grandparents work as janitors, farmworkers, and seamstresses, that hits close to home. That’s why I’m proposing free childcare, a guaranteed path to homeownership for all college and trade school graduates, and nonprofit grocery stores to slash the cost of living in concrete ways the average family can feel month after month. It’s possible. And after getting $7.5 million in federal funding for our community, helping 5,500 immigrants connect with work permits, being part of the team that housed 1,000 people experiencing homelessness in Denver, and helping 500,000 Coloradans survive the COVID-19 pandemic, I have the experience to turn those ideas into reality.
This was the second year in a row the Legislature had to make deep program cuts to balance the state budget. Where can the state reduce its spending, and what is your view on how Colorado can return to a positive budget situation?
GARCIA IRLANDO: I’m carrying petitions for the graduated income tax when I’m going door to door, and people are incredibly supportive. Millionaires and large corporations can afford to pay their fair share to benefit all Coloradans, especially since our state provides public infrastructure — such as roads, education, and utility infrastructure — that corporations depend on. I support the recent bill passed by the Legislature to refer a ballot measure to the 2026 general election to increase public K-12 education funding by up to 2% per year for 10 years. There was also a recent attempt by the state Legislature to collect a fee on large corporations, with over 500 employees, for any workers dependent on public assistance benefits, with an exception for workers eligible for assistance benefits based on disability. I fully support this approach because I believe that tax payers should not be subsidizing benefits for large corporations that can afford to pay for their workers’ benefits, but refuse to do so. Lastly, I believe that we must cut Colorado’s $1 billion plus spending on private prisons by reducing our non-violent offender prison population, and redirect that funding towards community-based prevention, education, mental health and healthcare, and the social safety net.
CARRERA: I’ll tell you where the state can’t reduce its spending. We must protect programs that mean the difference between life and death for Coloradans. Funding for Medicaid, for example, is non-negotiable. Funding for food, nutritional, behavioral health, and suicide crisis services must also be protected. We all know how cold Colorado winters can get, so I would also defend funding for Low-income Energy Assistance Programs (LEAP) which helps families pay a portion of their winter home heating costs. All other programs in the state budget must be seriously scrutinized line-by-line and evaluated based on whether data shows they are effective uses of taxpayer dollars.
What policies should the state enact regarding the proliferation of data centers?
GARCIA IRLANDO: I support strict regulations on data centers to protect communities, our water and our climate. For decades the oil and gas industry has polluted our communities and natural resources while the state Legislature and utilities have provided incentives and regulatory exemptions to this industry. I strongly oppose the same playbook proposed by data centers that would bind our state in deficit contracts, leave accountability to the will of corporations, and bypass any safeguards against polluting our communities. I support data center accountability policies such as public health and cumulative impact safeguards, strict water use and conservation parameters, renewable energy requirements, and mandates to ensure any new public utility infrastructure built to provide service to data centers is fully paid for by data center developers and not taxpayers or utility ratepayers. I also support enacting these policies with enforceable oversight mechanisms to ensure data center corporations do not treat noncompliance as the cost of doing business. Given these proposed parameters and accountability measures, I support a moratorium on data centers to guarantee protections for communities, public health, and our water and climate.
CARRERA: Data centers use about as much water as a small town. And considering the rest of Denver can’t even water its lawn right now, it’s not the right time to allow a gargantuan building to guzzle what little water we have. Estimates also show that data centers are expected to account for 12% of all U.S. energy consumption by 2028. Unless they’re able to run on renewable energy and not increase energy costs for residents, I’m a “no” on allowing them to come into our communities.
What is your view on working across the aisle, and within your own party, to advance policy?
GARCIA IRLANDO: I will work with anyone who wants to work to improve the lives of working people, protect the environment, create universal healthcare and childcare, and make Colorado more affordable for all of us, regardless of party. I will not compromise my values, regardless of party. As someone who has spent my career as a community organizer, nonprofit leader, and working collaboratively in coalitions across Colorado and nationally, I strongly believe that policy should not be decided in silos, but rather built in direct partnership with the people who are most impacted by those decisions. I was recently endorsed by Senator Bernie Sanders, an unaffiliated elected official, who understands that injustice is not a partisan issue, thus the solutions must also be grounded in the impacts to real people and not partisanship. I am excited to carry this approach to the Colorado Legislature, to work collaboratively but also fight when needed, to get things done.
CARRERA: Whenever I helped veterans connect with Social Security benefits, I never asked for their party affiliation. Whenever I connected people experiencing homelessness with housing, I never asked who they voted for in the last presidential election. None of that matters. What matters is helping people, and I’ll link arms with anyone who is interested in putting forward solutions to help the 6 million people who call Colorado home, regardless of whether they’re Democrats or Republicans. Ideas can only get sharper by having conversations with people we disagree with – people who have vastly different life experiences from my own. And that’s what I plan to do as state senator.
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