Key facts
- Colorado voters are showing a preference for anti-establishment candidates in Democratic primaries.
- Candidates who frame themselves as "fighters" against political opponents and the establishment are winning.
- Jahana Hayes lost her primary to a challenger who emphasized a combative stance.
- Joe Weiser, running for governor, has sued the Trump administration multiple times.
- Progressive groups like Justice Democrats and the Democratic Socialists of America are backing these insurgent candidates.
Colorado's recent Democratic primaries have highlighted a significant shift in voter sentiment, with a clear preference emerging for candidates who position themselves as "fighters" against both the political establishment and the Trump administration. This insurgent wave suggests a deep-seated anger among voters who feel that current leaders are not adequately challenging opponents or advocating for their interests.
Candidates like Kiros, who ran on a platform of being a relentless advocate, successfully unseated incumbents. Kiros, in particular, repeatedly emphasized her role as a fighter in her campaign messaging and victory speech. Similarly, Joe Weiser, a candidate for governor, built his campaign around his record of suing the Trump administration, portraying himself as a champion for Coloradans against perceived "bullies."
The success of these candidates is further bolstered by support from national progressive organizations. Justice Democrats and the Democratic Socialists of America have actively backed and mobilized resources for these insurgent campaigns, viewing their victories as validation of a working-class-centered political vision. The involvement of figures like socialist Twitch streamer Hasan Piker, who dedicated significant online organizing efforts and in-person campaigning to support Kiros, underscores the growing influence of these movements within the Democratic Party.