Could Colorado Tip the Scales?
Every ten years, the government conducts a census in an effort to account for the populations of citizens living in individual states. That information is used to make sure that the representation in the government reflects the number of its constituents. After the 2020 census information was released, steps were taken to account for the movement of people, the increase in population, and growth of cities to create new districts that mirror population with representation at both the national and state level. Redistricting is not a new concept, and happens every ten years, however, it could possibly change the face of the nation’s legislative branch in this election.
At the national level, Colorado currently has 7 districts, 4 of which are represented by democrats, and 3 by republicans. The census has appropriated an 8th district for our state. If the new district elects a Republican, it would give Colorado equal representation from both parties in the House of Representatives in Washington DC. There are a large number of unaffiliated voters in this new district.
District 8, covers portions of Adams, Larimer and Weld Counties. There are 4 Republicans and only 1 Democrat running in this election cycle. Many at the federal level are watching this very closely as many believe it could determine the balance of power in Congress in November. The front runner District 8 candidates, Yadira Caraveo and Barbara Kirkmeyer, both have experience in the Colorado legislature.
Yadira Caraveo (D), has served for 4 years as a member of the Colorado House of Representatives. As a first generation American she worked hard to earn a degree in pediatrics and saw first hand the need for Medicaid and healthcare reform. She was hailed by President Obama as a member of a coalition of doctors who fought against climate change. As a Congresswoman, she wants to continue her “commitment to the families she sees every day in Colorado, building on her work to lower health care costs, address the high cost of housing, combat climate change, protect a woman’s right to choose, and stop Republicans from taking away Americans’ right to vote.” |
Barbara Kirkmeyer has served Colorado as both a state Senator and Weld County Commissioner. Her conservative stance on gun control, and several public school reform committees have solidified her as a no nonsense politician with a background in small business ownership and a concern for rural issues in our state. As a County Commissioner, she can boast that she was responsible for “leaving Weld County as Colorado’s only large, debt-free county” in the state. |
Senate Races:
14 seats held by Democrats and 20 seats held by Republicans will be decided. Elections will be decided in all red and blue states. The color in each state represents the incumbent and party that holds the power currently. |
Colorado Candidates for US Senate:
Michael Bennet (D) Incumbent
Has our incumbent Senator done a good job? The Gazette out of Colorado Springs sponsored a Point/Counterpoint debate to discuss Bennet's voting record and accomplishments for our state. Check out their debate here.
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Joe O’Dea (R)
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House Races in District 4 (eastern plains):
Ken Buck (R) Incumbent
Ike McCorkle (D)
Congressman Buck is likely to win this race with a large backing from our District for many years. In addition, Republicans only need to gain a net of six districts to win a majority in the House. |