Colorado Socialist Upset
A Democratic socialist's Colorado win spotlights the left's growing reach and party tensions.
July 1, 2026 · Updated Jul 1, 5:50pm ET
SalonColorado's socialist sweep could reshape power in the U.S. House
Straight Arrow NewsThe rise of American Democratic socialists and what they stand for
The American ConservativeDemocratic Socialist Melat Kiros Wins in Colorado, Extending Recent Streak
Boston GlobeLeft-wing insurgent ousts 15-term member of Congress in Colorado
Daily CallerColorado Rebellion Is A Far Bigger Blow To Democrats Than Commie Corridor Losses
New York MagazineProgressive Surge Shows Its Reach and Its Limits in Colorado
The FederalistDSA Colorado Win Shows Communism Is New Norm For Dems
Raw StoryProgressive victory in Colorado a 'political asteroid' for 'do-nothings': analysis
Western JournalIt's Spreading: 'Democratic' Socialist Sends Dems Into Panic After Unseating 15-Term Colorado Congresswoman
TruthoutDemocratic Socialist Melat Kiros Defeats 15-Term Incumbent in Colorado Primary
Daily SignalSocialist Wave Hits Colorado as Democrat Establishment Waves the White Flag
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Pano rates the coverage Balanced.
What happened
Melat Kiros, a 29-year-old democratic socialist and first-time candidate, defeated 15-term Rep. Diana DeGette in the Democratic primary for Colorado’s 1st Congressional District, which includes Denver. Kiros, backed by the Democratic Socialists of America, beat the longtime incumbent in a safely Democratic seat and extended a recent run of progressive primary victories after similar wins in New York City. Her victory signals rising pressure on Democratic incumbents from the party’s left flank and could reshape the ideological balance of the House Democratic caucus if she wins the general election.