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Welcome to the Colorado Progressive Voters Guide! The Progressive Voters Guide compiles the information that allows you to make informed decisions about the races on your ballot, based on your values. Please share this guide with your friends and family!
Federal
Vice President Kamala Harris is the Democratic nominee to serve as the 47th President of the United States. The daughter of Indian and Jamaican immigrants, Harris' election would represent a historic achievement for women and underrepresented communities across the nation.
Born on October 20, 1964, in Oakland, California, Harris attended the historically Black Howard University, then graduating from University of California College of the Law, San Francisco. Harris was elected in 2003 as District Attorney of San Francisco, working to reduce recidivism and combat injustice against vulnerable populations. In 2010, Harris was elected California's Attorney General, winning re-election in 2014 before successfully running for the U.S. Senate in 2016. In 2020, Harris was chosen by now-President Joe Biden to serve as the first woman Vice President of the United States.
During Harris' term in the U.S. Senate, she played a central role in fighting back against Donald Trump's Supreme Court Justice appointments, defending the Affordable Care Act that millions of Americans rely on, and working across the aisle on immigration and criminal justice issues. As Vice President, Harris broke a record number of tie votes to pass critical legislation. Harris has promised to sign in to law legislation restoring the abortion rights protections eliminated by the repeal of Roe v. Wade.
Harris' running mate, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, is one of the nation's strongest and most effective progressive chief executives. From humble beginnings as a school teacher and 24 years of enlisted military service, Walz has channeled that experience into tireless advocacy for progressive solutions to the problems faced his state and the nation. As Governor of Minnesota, Walz signed free school meals, abortion rights, and universal background checks for gun purchases into law.
Harris' opponent in the 2024 President race, former President Donald Trump, was ruled ineligible by the Colorado Supreme Court for the presidential ballot on the basis of the 14th Amendment prohibition on candidates for office who have engaged in insurrection. This ruling removing Trump from the ballot was invalidated by the U.S. Supreme Court, but the finding that Trump had engaged in insurrection was not addressed in their decision. Trump continues to assert that he won the 2020 presidential election despite no evidence to support that claim ever emerging. As President, Trump appointed three far-right Justices to the U.S. Supreme Court, skewing the court's bias for a generation and directly resulting in the repeal of the historic Roe v. Wade decision guaranteeing abortion rights. Massive tax cuts for the wealthiest Americans signed into law by Trump helped result in historic deficits under his administration and his successor. After losing the 2020 Presidential election, Trump's refusal to admit defeat resulted in the violent assault on the U.S. Capitol on January 6th, 2021, an event Trump hoped would disrupt the peaceful transfer of power.
The 2024 Presidential election represents both the clearest and most important choice for American voters in generations. For the sake of the rule of law and American democracy, Kamala Harris is the progressive choice to be the next President of the United States.
Vice President Kamala Harris is the Democratic nominee to serve as the 47th President of the United States. The daughter of Indian and Jamaican immigrants, Harris' election would represent a historic achievement for women and underrepresented communities across the nation.
Born on October 20, 1964, in Oakland, California, Harris attended the historically Black Howard University, then graduating from University of California College of the Law, San Francisco. Harris was elected in 2003 as District Attorney of San Francisco, working to reduce recidivism and combat injustice against vulnerable populations. In 2010, Harris was elected California's Attorney General, winning re-election in 2014 before successfully running for the U.S. Senate in 2016. In 2020, Harris was chosen by now-President Joe Biden to serve as the first woman Vice President of the United States.
During Harris' term in the U.S. Senate, she played a central role in fighting back against Donald Trump's Supreme Court Justice appointments, defending the Affordable Care Act that millions of Americans rely on, and working across the aisle on immigration and criminal justice issues. As Vice President, Harris broke a record number of tie votes to pass critical legislation. Harris has promised to sign in to law legislation restoring the abortion rights protections eliminated by the repeal of Roe v. Wade.
Harris' running mate, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, is one of the nation's strongest and most effective progressive chief executives. From humble beginnings as a school teacher and 24 years of enlisted military service, Walz has channeled that experience into tireless advocacy for progressive solutions to the problems faced his state and the nation. As Governor of Minnesota, Walz signed free school meals, abortion rights, and universal background checks for gun purchases into law.
Harris' opponent in the 2024 President race, former President Donald Trump, was ruled ineligible by the Colorado Supreme Court for the presidential ballot on the basis of the 14th Amendment prohibition on candidates for office who have engaged in insurrection. This ruling removing Trump from the ballot was invalidated by the U.S. Supreme Court, but the finding that Trump had engaged in insurrection was not addressed in their decision. Trump continues to assert that he won the 2020 presidential election despite no evidence to support that claim ever emerging. As President, Trump appointed three far-right Justices to the U.S. Supreme Court, skewing the court's bias for a generation and directly resulting in the repeal of the historic Roe v. Wade decision guaranteeing abortion rights. Massive tax cuts for the wealthiest Americans signed into law by Trump helped result in historic deficits under his administration and his successor. After losing the 2020 Presidential election, Trump's refusal to admit defeat resulted in the violent assault on the U.S. Capitol on January 6th, 2021, an event Trump hoped would disrupt the peaceful transfer of power.
The 2024 Presidential election represents both the clearest and most important choice for American voters in generations. For the sake of the rule of law and American democracy, Kamala Harris is the progressive choice to be the next President of the United States.
Vice President Kamala Harris is the Democratic nominee to serve as the 47th President of the United States. The daughter of Indian and Jamaican immigrants, Harris' election would represent a historic achievement for women and underrepresented communities across the nation.
Born on October 20, 1964, in Oakland, California, Harris attended the historically Black Howard University, then graduating from University of California College of the Law, San Francisco. Harris was elected in 2003 as District Attorney of San Francisco, working to reduce recidivism and combat injustice against vulnerable populations. In 2010, Harris was elected California's Attorney General, winning re-election in 2014 before successfully running for the U.S. Senate in 2016. In 2020, Harris was chosen by now-President Joe Biden to serve as the first woman Vice President of the United States.
During Harris' term in the U.S. Senate, she played a central role in fighting back against Donald Trump's Supreme Court Justice appointments, defending the Affordable Care Act that millions of Americans rely on, and working across the aisle on immigration and criminal justice issues. As Vice President, Harris broke a record number of tie votes to pass critical legislation. Harris has promised to sign in to law legislation restoring the abortion rights protections eliminated by the repeal of Roe v. Wade.
Harris' running mate, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, is one of the nation's strongest and most effective progressive chief executives. From humble beginnings as a school teacher and 24 years of enlisted military service, Walz has channeled that experience into tireless advocacy for progressive solutions to the problems faced his state and the nation. As Governor of Minnesota, Walz signed free school meals, abortion rights, and universal background checks for gun purchases into law.
Harris' opponent in the 2024 President race, former President Donald Trump, was ruled ineligible by the Colorado Supreme Court for the presidential ballot on the basis of the 14th Amendment prohibition on candidates for office who have engaged in insurrection. This ruling removing Trump from the ballot was invalidated by the U.S. Supreme Court, but the finding that Trump had engaged in insurrection was not addressed in their decision. Trump continues to assert that he won the 2020 presidential election despite no evidence to support that claim ever emerging. As President, Trump appointed three far-right Justices to the U.S. Supreme Court, skewing the court's bias for a generation and directly resulting in the repeal of the historic Roe v. Wade decision guaranteeing abortion rights. Massive tax cuts for the wealthiest Americans signed into law by Trump helped result in historic deficits under his administration and his successor. After losing the 2020 Presidential election, Trump's refusal to admit defeat resulted in the violent assault on the U.S. Capitol on January 6th, 2021, an event Trump hoped would disrupt the peaceful transfer of power.
The 2024 Presidential election represents both the clearest and most important choice for American voters in generations. For the sake of the rule of law and American democracy, Kamala Harris is the progressive choice to be the next President of the United States.
8th Congressional District
Rep. Yadira Caraveo is the incumbent running for re-election in Colorado's 8th Congressional District, one of the most evenly-divided and competitive congressional districts in the nation. After narrowly defeating her Republican opponent state Sen. Barb Kirkmeyer in 2022, the 8th District is once again one of the most important congressional races of 2024.
Dr. Caraveo is a pediatrician who graduated from the University of Colorado School of Medicine. Caraveo was raised in Adams County and is the daughter of Mexican immigrants. In Congress, Rep. Caraveo serves on the House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology and Agriculture Committees. In the Colorado House, Caraveo played a major role in the passage of health coverage, prescription drug affordability, education, economic development, and legislation to reduce toxic air pollution. Caraveo is a proven supporter of abortion rights, helping pass legislation to protect abortion rights in Colorado ahead of the Supreme Court's reversal of Roe v. Wade.
Rep. Caraveo's opponent, freshman state Rep. Gabe Evans, is a far-right conservative endorsed by Donald Trump running on an unapologetic anti-abortion, anti-worker, and anti-public education campaign. The product of homeschooling and the right-wing Patrick Henry University, is has attempted to conceal his extreme background and agenda in order to run for Congress in Colorado's most competitive congressional district. Evans says that the right to abortion is "ridiculous," and falsely claimed "Aurora Has Fallen" to appease Trump at Colorado's expense. Evans recently fired his top political director after her record of racist and violent rhetoric was exposed by local media.
Yadira Caraveo represents the very best in elected leadership in Colorado today, and is the easy progressive choice for Colorado's 8th Congressional District.
Rep. Yadira Caraveo is the incumbent running for re-election in Colorado's 8th Congressional District, one of the most evenly-divided and competitive congressional districts in the nation. After narrowly defeating her Republican opponent state Sen. Barb Kirkmeyer in 2022, the 8th District is once again one of the most important congressional races of 2024.
Dr. Caraveo is a pediatrician who graduated from the University of Colorado School of Medicine. Caraveo was raised in Adams County and is the daughter of Mexican immigrants. In Congress, Rep. Caraveo serves on the House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology and Agriculture Committees. In the Colorado House, Caraveo played a major role in the passage of health coverage, prescription drug affordability, education, economic development, and legislation to reduce toxic air pollution. Caraveo is a proven supporter of abortion rights, helping pass legislation to protect abortion rights in Colorado ahead of the Supreme Court's reversal of Roe v. Wade.
Rep. Caraveo's opponent, freshman state Rep. Gabe Evans, is a far-right conservative endorsed by Donald Trump running on an unapologetic anti-abortion, anti-worker, and anti-public education campaign. The product of homeschooling and the right-wing Patrick Henry University, is has attempted to conceal his extreme background and agenda in order to run for Congress in Colorado's most competitive congressional district. Evans says that the right to abortion is "ridiculous," and falsely claimed "Aurora Has Fallen" to appease Trump at Colorado's expense. Evans recently fired his top political director after her record of racist and violent rhetoric was exposed by local media.
Yadira Caraveo represents the very best in elected leadership in Colorado today, and is the easy progressive choice for Colorado's 8th Congressional District.
Rep. Yadira Caraveo is the incumbent running for re-election in Colorado's 8th Congressional District, one of the most evenly-divided and competitive congressional districts in the nation. After narrowly defeating her Republican opponent state Sen. Barb Kirkmeyer in 2022, the 8th District is once again one of the most important congressional races of 2024.
Dr. Caraveo is a pediatrician who graduated from the University of Colorado School of Medicine. Caraveo was raised in Adams County and is the daughter of Mexican immigrants. In Congress, Rep. Caraveo serves on the House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology and Agriculture Committees. In the Colorado House, Caraveo played a major role in the passage of health coverage, prescription drug affordability, education, economic development, and legislation to reduce toxic air pollution. Caraveo is a proven supporter of abortion rights, helping pass legislation to protect abortion rights in Colorado ahead of the Supreme Court's reversal of Roe v. Wade.
Rep. Caraveo's opponent, freshman state Rep. Gabe Evans, is a far-right conservative endorsed by Donald Trump running on an unapologetic anti-abortion, anti-worker, and anti-public education campaign. The product of homeschooling and the right-wing Patrick Henry University, is has attempted to conceal his extreme background and agenda in order to run for Congress in Colorado's most competitive congressional district. Evans says that the right to abortion is "ridiculous," and falsely claimed "Aurora Has Fallen" to appease Trump at Colorado's expense. Evans recently fired his top political director after her record of racist and violent rhetoric was exposed by local media.
Yadira Caraveo represents the very best in elected leadership in Colorado today, and is the easy progressive choice for Colorado's 8th Congressional District.
Board of Education, 8th Congressional District
Rhonda Solis is the Democratic incumbent running for re-election to the Colorado State Board of Education representing Colorado's 8th Congressional District. Solis formerly served on the Greeley-Evans Board of Education, is a graduate of Greeley West High School, and co-founded the Latino Coalition of Weld County. Solis served as a Court Appointed Special Advocate in Weld County. Solis is running to protect and invest in Colorado's public schools.
Solis' Republican opponent, Yazmin Navarro of Johnstown, is a graduate of the ideologically conservative Grand Canyon University, and is running on an platform of "expanded school choice," and is endorsed by the far-right incumbent members of the State Board of Education who support funding private religious schools at the expense of public education.
Rhonda Solis has a solid record of advocacy for Colorado's public schools and students and should be re-elected to represent the 8th Congressional District on the Colorado State Board of Education.
Rhonda Solis is the Democratic incumbent running for re-election to the Colorado State Board of Education representing Colorado's 8th Congressional District. Solis formerly served on the Greeley-Evans Board of Education, is a graduate of Greeley West High School, and co-founded the Latino Coalition of Weld County. Solis served as a Court Appointed Special Advocate in Weld County. Solis is running to protect and invest in Colorado's public schools.
Solis' Republican opponent, Yazmin Navarro of Johnstown, is a graduate of the ideologically conservative Grand Canyon University, and is running on an platform of "expanded school choice," and is endorsed by the far-right incumbent members of the State Board of Education who support funding private religious schools at the expense of public education.
Rhonda Solis has a solid record of advocacy for Colorado's public schools and students and should be re-elected to represent the 8th Congressional District on the Colorado State Board of Education.
Rhonda Solis is the Democratic incumbent running for re-election to the Colorado State Board of Education representing Colorado's 8th Congressional District. Solis formerly served on the Greeley-Evans Board of Education, is a graduate of Greeley West High School, and co-founded the Latino Coalition of Weld County. Solis served as a Court Appointed Special Advocate in Weld County. Solis is running to protect and invest in Colorado's public schools.
Solis' Republican opponent, Yazmin Navarro of Johnstown, is a graduate of the ideologically conservative Grand Canyon University, and is running on an platform of "expanded school choice," and is endorsed by the far-right incumbent members of the State Board of Education who support funding private religious schools at the expense of public education.
Rhonda Solis has a solid record of advocacy for Colorado's public schools and students and should be re-elected to represent the 8th Congressional District on the Colorado State Board of Education.
University of Colorado Board of Regents
Elliott Hood the Democratic candidate running for an at-large (statewide) seat on the University of Colorado Board of Regents. Hood is a graduate of the University of Colorado at Boulder. Hood currently serves on the Boulder Parks and Recreation Advisory Board. Hood is a former fifth-grade teacher who became an attorney for school districts, involved in litigation to defend COVID-19 safety measures and protections against discrimination. Hood served as vice chairman of the Colorado Disability Funding Committee. Hood is running to keep the CU system affordable and fight for the rights of campus workers.
Hood's Republican opponent Eric Rinard is an engineer and graduate of the University of Colorado at Boulder, and serves as a board member at the Aspen Ridge Preparatory School charter school in Erie.
Elliott Hood is the recommended progressive choice to serve statewide on the University of Colorado Board of Regents.
Elliott Hood the Democratic candidate running for an at-large (statewide) seat on the University of Colorado Board of Regents. Hood is a graduate of the University of Colorado at Boulder. Hood currently serves on the Boulder Parks and Recreation Advisory Board. Hood is a former fifth-grade teacher who became an attorney for school districts, involved in litigation to defend COVID-19 safety measures and protections against discrimination. Hood served as vice chairman of the Colorado Disability Funding Committee. Hood is running to keep the CU system affordable and fight for the rights of campus workers.
Hood's Republican opponent Eric Rinard is an engineer and graduate of the University of Colorado at Boulder, and serves as a board member at the Aspen Ridge Preparatory School charter school in Erie.
Elliott Hood is the recommended progressive choice to serve statewide on the University of Colorado Board of Regents.
Elliott Hood the Democratic candidate running for an at-large (statewide) seat on the University of Colorado Board of Regents. Hood is a graduate of the University of Colorado at Boulder. Hood currently serves on the Boulder Parks and Recreation Advisory Board. Hood is a former fifth-grade teacher who became an attorney for school districts, involved in litigation to defend COVID-19 safety measures and protections against discrimination. Hood served as vice chairman of the Colorado Disability Funding Committee. Hood is running to keep the CU system affordable and fight for the rights of campus workers.
Hood's Republican opponent Eric Rinard is an engineer and graduate of the University of Colorado at Boulder, and serves as a board member at the Aspen Ridge Preparatory School charter school in Erie.
Elliott Hood is the recommended progressive choice to serve statewide on the University of Colorado Board of Regents.
State Senate
Depending on where you live, you may have one of the below State Senate races on your ballot.
Senator, District 13
Matt Johnston is running for State Senate District 13. Johnston serves on the Brighton City Council, where he has been an advocate for government transparency and diversity, equity, and inclusion with the Latino community in Colorado.
Johnston will focus on economic development, affordable housing, health care access, quality education, environmental safety, and agricultural protections. He has been vocal about his support of farmers and ranchers and fought for clean water during his time on the Brighton City Council.
Johnston is running against Republican Scott Bright. Bright holds extreme anti-abortion views and has spread fringe conspiracy theories denying the legitimacy of the 2020 election and the existence of climate change. Bright seeks to repeal magazine capacity limits and other common sense gun safety legislation.
Matt Johnston is the progressive choice for Colorado Senate District 13.
Matt Johnston is running for State Senate District 13. Johnston serves on the Brighton City Council, where he has been an advocate for government transparency and diversity, equity, and inclusion with the Latino community in Colorado.
Johnston will focus on economic development, affordable housing, health care access, quality education, environmental safety, and agricultural protections. He has been vocal about his support of farmers and ranchers and fought for clean water during his time on the Brighton City Council.
Johnston is running against Republican Scott Bright. Bright holds extreme anti-abortion views and has spread fringe conspiracy theories denying the legitimacy of the 2020 election and the existence of climate change. Bright seeks to repeal magazine capacity limits and other common sense gun safety legislation.
Matt Johnston is the progressive choice for Colorado Senate District 13.
Endorsed By: Conservation Colorado
,
Cobalt
,
Colorado AFL-CIO
,
Planned Parenthood Votes Colorado
,
SEIU Local 105
Matt Johnston is running for State Senate District 13. Johnston serves on the Brighton City Council, where he has been an advocate for government transparency and diversity, equity, and inclusion with the Latino community in Colorado.
Johnston will focus on economic development, affordable housing, health care access, quality education, environmental safety, and agricultural protections. He has been vocal about his support of farmers and ranchers and fought for clean water during his time on the Brighton City Council.
Johnston is running against Republican Scott Bright. Bright holds extreme anti-abortion views and has spread fringe conspiracy theories denying the legitimacy of the 2020 election and the existence of climate change. Bright seeks to repeal magazine capacity limits and other common sense gun safety legislation.
Matt Johnston is the progressive choice for Colorado Senate District 13.
Endorsed By: Conservation Colorado
,
Cobalt
,
Colorado AFL-CIO
,
Planned Parenthood Votes Colorado
,
SEIU Local 105
Senator, District 23
Joseph Bobko is the Democratic write-in candidate running for Senate District 23. Pillars of Bobko’s candidacy include lowering property taxes, capping food and grocery prices, increasing minimum wage, and controlling land leases/space rental for people living in mobile or manufactured homes. He is an automotive mechanic and small business owner.
Bobko is running to replace Republican Senator Barbara Kirkmeyer,. Kirkmeyer has earned a reputation for uncompromising anti-abortion grandstanding and total devotion to the oil and gas industry. She helped lead an effort to begin the process of northern Colorado seceding from the state.
Joseph Bobko - write-in candidate - is the progressive candidate running for Senate District 23.
Joseph Bobko is the Democratic write-in candidate running for Senate District 23. Pillars of Bobko’s candidacy include lowering property taxes, capping food and grocery prices, increasing minimum wage, and controlling land leases/space rental for people living in mobile or manufactured homes. He is an automotive mechanic and small business owner.
Bobko is running to replace Republican Senator Barbara Kirkmeyer,. Kirkmeyer has earned a reputation for uncompromising anti-abortion grandstanding and total devotion to the oil and gas industry. She helped lead an effort to begin the process of northern Colorado seceding from the state.
Joseph Bobko - write-in candidate - is the progressive candidate running for Senate District 23.
Joseph Bobko is the Democratic write-in candidate running for Senate District 23. Pillars of Bobko’s candidacy include lowering property taxes, capping food and grocery prices, increasing minimum wage, and controlling land leases/space rental for people living in mobile or manufactured homes. He is an automotive mechanic and small business owner.
Bobko is running to replace Republican Senator Barbara Kirkmeyer,. Kirkmeyer has earned a reputation for uncompromising anti-abortion grandstanding and total devotion to the oil and gas industry. She helped lead an effort to begin the process of northern Colorado seceding from the state.
Joseph Bobko - write-in candidate - is the progressive candidate running for Senate District 23.
Representative, District 64
Mark K. Matthews, a retired physician with nearly four decades of service to Colorado and beyond, is running in House District 64. Now living on a farm in Mead, Matthews often donates surplus harvest to the Weld Food Bank. His platform focuses on expanding healthcare access, protecting reproductive rights, and removing government interference from medical decisions. Matthews also advocates for public schools and teacher unions, while prioritizing affordable housing. As a Gun Sense Candidate for Moms Demand Action, he stands in contrast to his opponent, incumbent Republican Rep. Ryan Armagost.
A former law enforcement professional and self-described Constitutional Conservative, Armagost notably sponsored an attempt to impeach Secretary of State Jenna Griswold. This move came after Griswold complied with the Colorado State Supreme Court's decision to remove Donald Trump from the state ballot, citing his role in the January 6th insurrection and constitutional disqualification.
For a progressive voice in House District 64, voters are encouraged to support Mark K. Matthews.
Mark K. Matthews, a retired physician with nearly four decades of service to Colorado and beyond, is running in House District 64. Now living on a farm in Mead, Matthews often donates surplus harvest to the Weld Food Bank. His platform focuses on expanding healthcare access, protecting reproductive rights, and removing government interference from medical decisions. Matthews also advocates for public schools and teacher unions, while prioritizing affordable housing. As a Gun Sense Candidate for Moms Demand Action, he stands in contrast to his opponent, incumbent Republican Rep. Ryan Armagost.
A former law enforcement professional and self-described Constitutional Conservative, Armagost notably sponsored an attempt to impeach Secretary of State Jenna Griswold. This move came after Griswold complied with the Colorado State Supreme Court's decision to remove Donald Trump from the state ballot, citing his role in the January 6th insurrection and constitutional disqualification.
For a progressive voice in House District 64, voters are encouraged to support Mark K. Matthews.
Mark K. Matthews, a retired physician with nearly four decades of service to Colorado and beyond, is running in House District 64. Now living on a farm in Mead, Matthews often donates surplus harvest to the Weld Food Bank. His platform focuses on expanding healthcare access, protecting reproductive rights, and removing government interference from medical decisions. Matthews also advocates for public schools and teacher unions, while prioritizing affordable housing. As a Gun Sense Candidate for Moms Demand Action, he stands in contrast to his opponent, incumbent Republican Rep. Ryan Armagost.
A former law enforcement professional and self-described Constitutional Conservative, Armagost notably sponsored an attempt to impeach Secretary of State Jenna Griswold. This move came after Griswold complied with the Colorado State Supreme Court's decision to remove Donald Trump from the state ballot, citing his role in the January 6th insurrection and constitutional disqualification.
For a progressive voice in House District 64, voters are encouraged to support Mark K. Matthews.
Regional Transportation District I
Karen Benker is running to represent RTD District I. Benker has served District and on the Longmont City Council. Her Goal is to bring an RTD Rail Line to Longmont. Benker would like to see RTD focus on safety and budget, while implementing forward-thinking solutions to make commuter rail for Longmont a reality.
Benker is running unopposed for District I.
Karen Benker is running to represent RTD District I. Benker has served District and on the Longmont City Council. Her Goal is to bring an RTD Rail Line to Longmont. Benker would like to see RTD focus on safety and budget, while implementing forward-thinking solutions to make commuter rail for Longmont a reality.
Benker is running unopposed for District I.
Karen Benker is running to represent RTD District I. Benker has served District and on the Longmont City Council. Her Goal is to bring an RTD Rail Line to Longmont. Benker would like to see RTD focus on safety and budget, while implementing forward-thinking solutions to make commuter rail for Longmont a reality.
Benker is running unopposed for District I.
Statewide Judicial Races
The following Judicial Retention selections are taken directly from the Colorado Office of Judicial Performance Evaluation, the independent state-funded body that evaluates judges. Statewide and judicial districted commissions spend hours evaluating the overall performance of judges in each of the following criteria: integrity, legal knowledge, communication skills, judicial temperament, administrative performance, and service to the legal profession and the public. The commissions then vote on if a judge either meets performance standards or does not meet performance standards.
If you would like to access a more detailed judicial evaluation, click on the "Website" near a judge's name.
The State Commission on Judicial Performance finds that Justice Maria E. Berkenkotter MEETS PERFORMANCE STANDARDS by a vote of 10–0 with one recusal.
The State Commission on Judicial Performance finds that Justice Maria E. Berkenkotter MEETS PERFORMANCE STANDARDS by a vote of 10–0 with one recusal.
The State Commission on Judicial Performance finds that Justice Maria E. Berkenkotter MEETS PERFORMANCE STANDARDS by a vote of 10–0 with one recusal.
The State Commission on Judicial Performance finds that Justice Brian D. Boatright MEETS PERFORMANCE STANDARDS, by a vote of 8–0 with three recusals.
The State Commission on Judicial Performance finds that Justice Brian D. Boatright MEETS PERFORMANCE STANDARDS, by a vote of 8–0 with three recusals.
The State Commission on Judicial Performance finds that Justice Brian D. Boatright MEETS PERFORMANCE STANDARDS, by a vote of 8–0 with three recusals.
The State Commission on Judicial Performance finds that Chief Justice Monica M. Márquez MEETS PERFORMANCE STANDARDS, by a vote of 10–0 with one recusal.
The State Commission on Judicial Performance finds that Chief Justice Monica M. Márquez MEETS PERFORMANCE STANDARDS, by a vote of 10–0 with one recusal.
The State Commission on Judicial Performance finds that Chief Justice Monica M. Márquez MEETS PERFORMANCE STANDARDS, by a vote of 10–0 with one recusal.
The State Commission on Judicial Performance finds that Judge Stephanie Dunn MEETS PERFORMANCE STANDARDS, by a vote of 10–0 with one recusal.
The State Commission on Judicial Performance finds that Judge Stephanie Dunn MEETS PERFORMANCE STANDARDS, by a vote of 10–0 with one recusal.
The State Commission on Judicial Performance finds that Judge Stephanie Dunn MEETS PERFORMANCE STANDARDS, by a vote of 10–0 with one recusal.
The State Commission on Judicial Performance finds that Judge Jerry N. Jones of the Colorado Court of Appeals MEETS PERFORMANCE STANDARDS by a vote of 10-0 with one recusal.
The State Commission on Judicial Performance finds that Judge Jerry N. Jones of the Colorado Court of Appeals MEETS PERFORMANCE STANDARDS by a vote of 10-0 with one recusal.
The State Commission on Judicial Performance finds that Judge Jerry N. Jones of the Colorado Court of Appeals MEETS PERFORMANCE STANDARDS by a vote of 10-0 with one recusal.
The State Commission on Judicial Performance finds that Judge W. Eric Kuhn MEETS PERFORMANCE STANDARDS, by a vote of 10–0 with one recusal.
The State Commission on Judicial Performance finds that Judge W. Eric Kuhn MEETS PERFORMANCE STANDARDS, by a vote of 10–0 with one recusal.
The State Commission on Judicial Performance finds that Judge W. Eric Kuhn MEETS PERFORMANCE STANDARDS, by a vote of 10–0 with one recusal.
The State Commission on Judicial Performance finds that Chief Judge Gilbert M. Román MEETS PERFORMANCE STANDARDS, by a vote of 10-0 with one recusal.
The State Commission on Judicial Performance finds that Chief Judge Gilbert M. Román MEETS PERFORMANCE STANDARDS, by a vote of 10-0 with one recusal.
The State Commission on Judicial Performance finds that Chief Judge Gilbert M. Román MEETS PERFORMANCE STANDARDS, by a vote of 10-0 with one recusal.
The State Commission on Judicial Performance finds that Judge Timothy J. Schutz MEETS PERFORMANCE STANDARDS, by a vote of 10-0 with one recusal.
The State Commission on Judicial Performance finds that Judge Timothy J. Schutz MEETS PERFORMANCE STANDARDS, by a vote of 10-0 with one recusal.
The State Commission on Judicial Performance finds that Judge Timothy J. Schutz MEETS PERFORMANCE STANDARDS, by a vote of 10-0 with one recusal.
19th Judicial District
The Nineteenth Judicial District Commission on Judicial Performance finds, by a vote of 8-0, with two absent Commissioners, that the Honorable Allison J. Esser MEETS PERFORMANCE STANDARDS.
The Nineteenth Judicial District Commission on Judicial Performance finds, by a vote of 8-0, with two absent Commissioners, that the Honorable Allison J. Esser MEETS PERFORMANCE STANDARDS.
The Nineteenth Judicial District Commission on Judicial Performance finds, by a vote of 8-0, with two absent Commissioners, that the Honorable Allison J. Esser MEETS PERFORMANCE STANDARDS.
The Nineteenth Judicial District Commission on Judicial Performance finds by a vote of 7-0, with one commissioner abstaining, and 2 absent commissioners, that the Honorable Anita J. Crowther MEETS PERFORMANCE STANDARDS.
The Nineteenth Judicial District Commission on Judicial Performance finds by a vote of 7-0, with one commissioner abstaining, and 2 absent commissioners, that the Honorable Anita J. Crowther MEETS PERFORMANCE STANDARDS.
The Nineteenth Judicial District Commission on Judicial Performance finds by a vote of 7-0, with one commissioner abstaining, and 2 absent commissioners, that the Honorable Anita J. Crowther MEETS PERFORMANCE STANDARDS.
The Nineteenth Judicial District Commission on Judicial Performance finds the Honorable Todd L. Taylor MEETS PERFORMANCE STANDARDS in all areas by a unanimous vote of 8-0, with two members absent.
The Nineteenth Judicial District Commission on Judicial Performance finds the Honorable Todd L. Taylor MEETS PERFORMANCE STANDARDS in all areas by a unanimous vote of 8-0, with two members absent.
The Nineteenth Judicial District Commission on Judicial Performance finds the Honorable Todd L. Taylor MEETS PERFORMANCE STANDARDS in all areas by a unanimous vote of 8-0, with two members absent.
Statewide Ballot Measures
Colorado SHOULD extend its Homestead exemption to veterans, injured in the line of duty, who have been federally qualified as TDIU (or classified as having a service-related disability that has rendered them unemployable).
A constitutional measure referred to the ballot by the state legislature, Amendment G would add this exemption to Colorado veterans, who cannot hold steady employment as a result of their service.
Currently in Colorado, seniors (65+), Gold Star spouses, and veterans with a 100% service-related disability, can exempt 50% of the first $200,000 of their home’s value from taxation.
An estimated 3,700 veterans in Colorado who are not otherwise able to claim the homestead exemption would be eligible for the exemption under this amendment in property tax year 2025.
The state reimburses the local governments for all revenue lost as a result of the exemption.
The measure requires a 55% YES vote to pass.
We recommend a YES vote on Amendment G.
Colorado SHOULD extend its Homestead exemption to veterans, injured in the line of duty, who have been federally qualified as TDIU (or classified as having a service-related disability that has rendered them unemployable).
A constitutional measure referred to the ballot by the state legislature, Amendment G would add this exemption to Colorado veterans, who cannot hold steady employment as a result of their service.
Currently in Colorado, seniors (65+), Gold Star spouses, and veterans with a 100% service-related disability, can exempt 50% of the first $200,000 of their home’s value from taxation.
An estimated 3,700 veterans in Colorado who are not otherwise able to claim the homestead exemption would be eligible for the exemption under this amendment in property tax year 2025.
The state reimburses the local governments for all revenue lost as a result of the exemption.
The measure requires a 55% YES vote to pass.
We recommend a YES vote on Amendment G.
Referred by the state legislature, Amendment H creates an Independent Judicial Discipline Adjudicative Board, separate from the Colorado Supreme Court. This independent commission would preside over judicial discipline hearings and impose sanctions. The amendment would make judicial discipline public once formal proceedings begin.
The constitutional measure requires a 55% ‘yes’ vote to pass.
Referred by the state legislature, Amendment H creates an Independent Judicial Discipline Adjudicative Board, separate from the Colorado Supreme Court. This independent commission would preside over judicial discipline hearings and impose sanctions. The amendment would make judicial discipline public once formal proceedings begin.
The constitutional measure requires a 55% ‘yes’ vote to pass.
Amendment I was referred to the ballot by the Colorado State Legislature and requires a 55% yes vote to pass.
Amendment I would make first degree murder an “unbailable” offense if the proof “is evident or the presumption is great.”
In short, Amendment I adds first degree murder to the list of offenses for which a person can be held without bail in Colorado.
We recommend a YES vote on Amendment I.
Amendment I was referred to the ballot by the Colorado State Legislature and requires a 55% yes vote to pass.
Amendment I would make first degree murder an “unbailable” offense if the proof “is evident or the presumption is great.”
In short, Amendment I adds first degree murder to the list of offenses for which a person can be held without bail in Colorado.
We recommend a YES vote on Amendment I.
Endorsed By ProgressNow Colorado
As progressives, we proudly continue to stand with and support marriage equality for all.
Marriage is a basic right, and Colorado’s Constitution SHOULD reflect this right for all state residents. Amendment J repeals the ban on same-sex marriage in Colorado by striking language in Colorado’s Constitution stating that only the union of one man and one woman is a valid or recognized marriage in Colorado.
Repealing the ban is necessary, as the U.S. Supreme Court has hinted at overturning marriage equality in a prior opinion, and the legality of same-sex marriage would then revert to each state.
Amendment J was referred to the ballot by the Colorado State Legislature and requires a 55% YES vote to pass.
We must protect the legality of same-sex marriage in Colorado. We strongly recommend a YES vote on Amendment J.
As progressives, we proudly continue to stand with and support marriage equality for all.
Marriage is a basic right, and Colorado’s Constitution SHOULD reflect this right for all state residents. Amendment J repeals the ban on same-sex marriage in Colorado by striking language in Colorado’s Constitution stating that only the union of one man and one woman is a valid or recognized marriage in Colorado.
Repealing the ban is necessary, as the U.S. Supreme Court has hinted at overturning marriage equality in a prior opinion, and the legality of same-sex marriage would then revert to each state.
Amendment J was referred to the ballot by the Colorado State Legislature and requires a 55% YES vote to pass.
We must protect the legality of same-sex marriage in Colorado. We strongly recommend a YES vote on Amendment J.
Amendment K would require citizen initiatives to file their signatures one week earlier. Additionally, judges and justices seeking retention would be required to also file their “Declaration of Intent” one week earlier. Lastly, official text and ballot measure titles would have to be published one month sooner.
Should the measure pass, the Colorado Secretary of State and county clerks would have more time to finalize ballots ahead of printing.
Referred by the legislature, Amendment K requires 55% to pass.
We recommend a YES vote on Amendment K.
Amendment K would require citizen initiatives to file their signatures one week earlier. Additionally, judges and justices seeking retention would be required to also file their “Declaration of Intent” one week earlier. Lastly, official text and ballot measure titles would have to be published one month sooner.
Should the measure pass, the Colorado Secretary of State and county clerks would have more time to finalize ballots ahead of printing.
Referred by the legislature, Amendment K requires 55% to pass.
We recommend a YES vote on Amendment K.
Abortion is health care, and Amendment 79 protects the right to abortion care in Colorado’s constitution.
Amendment 79 ensures that state and local governments cannot block or limit access to abortion care. It removes existing insurance discrimination policies that prevent public employees and Coloradans enrolled in state and local government insurance programs, from having abortion care covered by their health insurance.
Currently, our state’s constitution does not keep the government out of personal, private health decisions, meaning the government can take away our right to abortion with the stroke of a pen.
A YES vote would change the Colorado constitution, recognizing the right to abortion and protecting it from future government interference of this right.
Regardless of the source of one's health insurance, the right to abortion should be protected for all Coloradans. Coloradans should have the freedom to decide for themselves whether to have an abortion, and that right shouldn’t depend on the source of their health insurance or who is in office.
We must end attempts by anti-abortion extremists to ban abortion in the state and even charge women who’ve had abortions with homicide. We can’t let that happen.
Vote YES on Amendment 79 to ensure that abortion remains safe, legal, and accessible for future generations in Colorado.
Abortion is health care, and Amendment 79 protects the right to abortion care in Colorado’s constitution.
Amendment 79 ensures that state and local governments cannot block or limit access to abortion care. It removes existing insurance discrimination policies that prevent public employees and Coloradans enrolled in state and local government insurance programs, from having abortion care covered by their health insurance.
Currently, our state’s constitution does not keep the government out of personal, private health decisions, meaning the government can take away our right to abortion with the stroke of a pen.
A YES vote would change the Colorado constitution, recognizing the right to abortion and protecting it from future government interference of this right.
Regardless of the source of one's health insurance, the right to abortion should be protected for all Coloradans. Coloradans should have the freedom to decide for themselves whether to have an abortion, and that right shouldn’t depend on the source of their health insurance or who is in office.
We must end attempts by anti-abortion extremists to ban abortion in the state and even charge women who’ve had abortions with homicide. We can’t let that happen.
Vote YES on Amendment 79 to ensure that abortion remains safe, legal, and accessible for future generations in Colorado.
Amendment 80 is a misleading constitutional measure that would require 55% of the vote to pass. Designed to weaken and divert funds from public education, this amendment seeks to pave the way for taxpayer funded, private school voucher programs.
Programs such as this seek to divert critical resources from already underfunded public schools and funnel them to private schools that discriminate against students and families and do not have to meet state education standards or serve all students.
While pretending to be about school choice, which already exists in Colorado (since 1994), Amendment 80's private education proponents seek to justify book banning and abandon curriculums that include sex education, race, and ethnicity. This amendment also would allow parents to sue schools for following non-discrimination laws and interfere with school activities.
Amendment 80 is dangerous - opening the door for extremists to try to dictate school curriculum for 95% of Colorado’s kids.
We recommend that you vote NO on Amendment 80 and protect Colorado's public schools.
Amendment 80 is a misleading constitutional measure that would require 55% of the vote to pass. Designed to weaken and divert funds from public education, this amendment seeks to pave the way for taxpayer funded, private school voucher programs.
Programs such as this seek to divert critical resources from already underfunded public schools and funnel them to private schools that discriminate against students and families and do not have to meet state education standards or serve all students.
While pretending to be about school choice, which already exists in Colorado (since 1994), Amendment 80's private education proponents seek to justify book banning and abandon curriculums that include sex education, race, and ethnicity. This amendment also would allow parents to sue schools for following non-discrimination laws and interfere with school activities.
Amendment 80 is dangerous - opening the door for extremists to try to dictate school curriculum for 95% of Colorado’s kids.
We recommend that you vote NO on Amendment 80 and protect Colorado's public schools.
In 2019, voters approved Proposition DD, which legalized sports betting in Colorado and authorized the state to collect up to $29 million per year in tax revenue from sports betting. Proposition JJ proposes allowing the state to keep any sports betting tax revenue above $29 million per year. This already collected revenue would go towards the Colorado Water Plan instead of being refunded to casinos and sportsbook operators.
As a statutory measure, Proposition JJ just needs above 50% of the vote to pass.
In 2019, voters approved Proposition DD, which legalized sports betting in Colorado and authorized the state to collect up to $29 million per year in tax revenue from sports betting. Proposition JJ proposes allowing the state to keep any sports betting tax revenue above $29 million per year. This already collected revenue would go towards the Colorado Water Plan instead of being refunded to casinos and sportsbook operators.
As a statutory measure, Proposition JJ just needs above 50% of the vote to pass.
Voting YES on Proposition KK supports our most at-risk Coloradans — veterans, youth, and victims of domestic violence and other violent crimes. Proposition KK creates a new state tax on the sale of firearms, firearm parts, and ammunition. This revenue would provide around $39 million each year to fund mental health support for survivors of trauma as well as youth and school safety programs.
These programs would provide critical resources to build resilience for survivors of trauma, support the prevention of crime and gun violence, and help end the cycle of violence.
We recommend a YES vote on Amendment KK.
Voting YES on Proposition KK supports our most at-risk Coloradans — veterans, youth, and victims of domestic violence and other violent crimes. Proposition KK creates a new state tax on the sale of firearms, firearm parts, and ammunition. This revenue would provide around $39 million each year to fund mental health support for survivors of trauma as well as youth and school safety programs.
These programs would provide critical resources to build resilience for survivors of trauma, support the prevention of crime and gun violence, and help end the cycle of violence.
We recommend a YES vote on Amendment KK.
Proposition 127 would prohibit killing, wounding, pursuing, entrapping, or discharging a deadly weapon at bobcats, lynx, and mountain lions in Colorado. This measure bans all hunting, pursuing, or entrapping of bobcats, lynx, and mountain lions.
Proposition 127 would prohibit killing, wounding, pursuing, entrapping, or discharging a deadly weapon at bobcats, lynx, and mountain lions in Colorado. This measure bans all hunting, pursuing, or entrapping of bobcats, lynx, and mountain lions.
Proposition 128 is a “scare tactic” initiative aimed to increase state spending on prisons, jeopardize prison safety, and disincentivize educational and mental health programs for inmates.
This measure would require an individual convicted of certain crimes to serve 85% of their sentence before the possibility of parole, up from 75% of their sentence. While the measure claims to be “tough on crime,” it does nothing to actually decrease crime. Rather, Proposition 128, is designed to increase prison populations in Colorado, increase spending, and increase the likelihood of repeat offenses by removing incentives for inmates to participate in education, mental health, and other rehabilitation resources.
We recommend a NO vote on Proposition 128.
Proposition 128 is a “scare tactic” initiative aimed to increase state spending on prisons, jeopardize prison safety, and disincentivize educational and mental health programs for inmates.
This measure would require an individual convicted of certain crimes to serve 85% of their sentence before the possibility of parole, up from 75% of their sentence. While the measure claims to be “tough on crime,” it does nothing to actually decrease crime. Rather, Proposition 128, is designed to increase prison populations in Colorado, increase spending, and increase the likelihood of repeat offenses by removing incentives for inmates to participate in education, mental health, and other rehabilitation resources.
We recommend a NO vote on Proposition 128.
Proposition 129 would create a mid-level position called a Veterinary Professional Associate, or VPA. This position, which would require a masters degree, would be allowed to diagnose animals, perform surgeries, and order and perform tests under the supervision of a licensed veterinarian.
A state would create a credentialing board that would require passage of a national exam and may adopt additional credential and testing requirements.
Proposition 129 would create a mid-level position called a Veterinary Professional Associate, or VPA. This position, which would require a masters degree, would be allowed to diagnose animals, perform surgeries, and order and perform tests under the supervision of a licensed veterinarian.
A state would create a credentialing board that would require passage of a national exam and may adopt additional credential and testing requirements.
Proposition 130 would reallocate $350 million of state funds to expand policing in Colorado. Currently, most local police are funded through local and municipal budgets, not from state coffers. The initiative falsely claims to fund first responders, but restricts the funds to local law enforcement only – fire fighters, EMTs, or mental health professionals would not receive a dime.
This measure diverts even more funding to local law enforcement at the expense of other essential services that are proven to increase and support public safety, such as education resources, mental health services, co-responder programs, and community development. The proposed government funding mandated by this measure does not include any oversight and cannot be used for diversion programs.
We recommend a NO vote on Proposition 130.
Proposition 130 would reallocate $350 million of state funds to expand policing in Colorado. Currently, most local police are funded through local and municipal budgets, not from state coffers. The initiative falsely claims to fund first responders, but restricts the funds to local law enforcement only – fire fighters, EMTs, or mental health professionals would not receive a dime.
This measure diverts even more funding to local law enforcement at the expense of other essential services that are proven to increase and support public safety, such as education resources, mental health services, co-responder programs, and community development. The proposed government funding mandated by this measure does not include any oversight and cannot be used for diversion programs.
We recommend a NO vote on Proposition 130.
The supporters of Proposition 131 (former DaVita CEO Kent Thiry and other multi-millionaires) want to make it easier for wealthy candidates like themselves to win in Colorado.
Proposition 131 proposes an “all-candidate” primary for U.S. Senate and House, statewide positions like governor, and the state legislature. It would ask primary voters to choose from all candidates for each of these races, regardless of political affiliation. The top four vote recipients would advance to the general election.
The new voting model would make elections in Colorado more expensive to administer, do away with Colorado’s post-election audit, and is designed to confuse voters and decrease participation.
Proposition 131 would not apply to the Presidential primary.
We recommend a NO vote on Proposition 131.
The supporters of Proposition 131 (former DaVita CEO Kent Thiry and other multi-millionaires) want to make it easier for wealthy candidates like themselves to win in Colorado.
Proposition 131 proposes an “all-candidate” primary for U.S. Senate and House, statewide positions like governor, and the state legislature. It would ask primary voters to choose from all candidates for each of these races, regardless of political affiliation. The top four vote recipients would advance to the general election.
The new voting model would make elections in Colorado more expensive to administer, do away with Colorado’s post-election audit, and is designed to confuse voters and decrease participation.
Proposition 131 would not apply to the Presidential primary.
We recommend a NO vote on Proposition 131.
The following Judicial Retention selections are taken directly from the Colorado Office of Judicial Performance Evaluation, the independent state-funded body that evaluates judges. Statewide and judicial districted commissions spend hours evaluating the overall performance of judges in each of the following criteria: integrity, legal knowledge, communication skills, judicial temperament, administrative performance, and service to the legal profession and the public. The commissions then vote on if a judge either meets performance standards or does not meet performance standards.
If you would like to access a more detailed judicial evaluation, click on the "Website" near a judge's name.