Rep. Diana DeGette, a Democrat from Colorado and a 30-year incumbent, experienced a surprising defeat in a primary race against Melat Kiros, a Democratic Socialists of America (DSA)-supported challenger. Kiros, aged 29, claimed a significant win for the socialist movement by securing the seat in a deep-blue district centered in Denver, as confirmed by The Associated Press.
The DSA portrayed DeGette’s loss as indicative of their increasing influence, especially following victories of socialist candidates in New York’s Democratic primaries. In a previous social media post, the DSA had noted its expanding presence from the East Coast to the Mountain West.
If Kiros prevails in the upcoming November elections, she will likely align with the far-left group called the Squad, joining the House as an outspoken socialist. Her campaign drew endorsements from notable figures such as Sen. Bernie Sanders and Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez. The Justice Democrats, known for their opposition to entrenched incumbents, also supported Kiros. Hasan Piker, a controversial socialist commentator, backed her campaign despite his contentious remarks comparing Hamas favorably over Israel and praising the Chinese Communist Party.
DeGette, known for her progressive stance in Congress and membership in the Congressional Progressive Caucus, aimed for a 16th term. Her campaign emphasized her longstanding commitment to Medicare-for-All and her experience as an impeachment manager during former President Trump’s second impeachment. She received support from former CPC Chairwoman Pramila Jayapal.
The differences between DeGette and Kiros largely revolved around stances on Israel and antisemitism. Kiros criticized DeGette for accepting corporate PAC donations. Kiros, a legal professional and PhD student, had a contentious past involving her dismissal from a New York law firm following an open letter defending pro-Palestinian protesters.
During her campaign, Kiros described recent attacks on Israel as consequences of apartheid and refrained from labeling violent protests as antisemitic. A notable bipartisan resolution condemning attacks on Jewish individuals received broad support, with two members voting present, Reps. Rashida Tlaib and Thomas Massie.
Kiros has implied the United States’ foreign policy led to 9/11, contending that U.S. actions in the Middle East fostered environments conducive to such violence.
DeGette countered these views, criticizing Kiros’ affiliations and remarks as unacceptable, stressing the harmful nature of excusing terrorism. Despite these contentious points, Colorado’s 1st Congressional District remains the state’s most liberal, having voted decidedly for former Vice President Kamala Harris in 2024.
The race also featured Wanda James, a University of Colorado Regent, whose participation added complexity to the primary dynamics.
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