Diana DeGette
Coverage of Diana DeGette in the Nexus archive.
- ‘I’ll settle for not crazy’: Denver business leaders brace for socialist shift after big win for DSA
Following Melat Kiros' victory in Denver's primary, business leaders expressed concern that gaining democratic socialist momentum in Colorado threatens economic stability. J.J. Ament, of the Denver Metro Chamber of Commerce, warned that progressive policies—such as increased regulations and minimum wage hikes—may conflict with economic realities, making it harder for businesses to operate.
- RNC warns socialists push Democrats ‘off cliff’ after DSA co-chair offers no tax rate
The Republican National Committee (RNC) national spokesperson Natalie Baldassarre warned that socialists were steering Democrats toward political disaster. The warning followed Megan Romer, co-chair of the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA), who did not specify a tax rate or wealth threshold when asked about taxing millionaires. She stated the group would determine its tax policy by examining spending priorities and revenue needs.
- Socialists rising in Colorado? Send in the Marines, GOP nominee says
Republican Colorado gubernatorial nominee Victor Marx is campaigning with a newly formed all-Marine ticket alongside George Markert to combat what he describes as a rising democratic socialist movement in the country. Marx attributes his candidacy victory partly to Democratic Socialist Melat Kiros's upset win in Colorado’s primary race, arguing that military discipline and 'steely spines' are needed for government. He contrasts his platform of public safety with approaches supported by the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA), which supports police abolition.
- 'Squad' socialist scores re-election nod as radical wave continues to sweep party
Rep. Rashida Tlaib won the Democratic primary in Michigan's 12th Congressional District, continuing a trend of progressive victories in Democratic primaries. The Democratic Socialists of America (DSA) supported Tlaib and other socialist candidates who have gained influence within the party, including Darializa Avila Chevalier in New York and Melat Kiros in Colorado.
- 'Squad' socialist scores re-election nod as radical wave continues to sweep party
Rashida Tlaib, a member of the 'Squad,' won the Democratic primary in Michigan's 12th Congressional District, securing her re-election bid. Her victory reflects a broader trend of progressive success in Democratic primaries, with socialist candidates like Darializa Avila Chevalier and Melat Kiros also defeating incumbents. The Democratic Socialists of America endorsed Tlaib and highlighted her advocacy for working-class issues.
- Independent candidate for CD-1 says he wants to fight extremism
Shimon Blau, an independent candidate for Colorado’s 1st Congressional District, positions himself as a moderate alternative to Melat Kiros, a democratic socialist, and Christy Peterson, a Republican. Blau advocates for universal healthcare, free childcare, and removing corporate money from politics, while criticizing Kiros for 'antisemitic rhetoric' and her ties to the Democratic Socialists of America. He emphasizes bipartisan leadership and rejects support from groups like AIPAC.
- Democratic socialist candidate brushes off concerns over DSA 'communists' as GOP 'noise'
Melat Kiros, a democratic socialist candidate, dismissed Republican concerns about communists in the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA), calling it 'noise.' Kiros, who defeated 15-term Rep. Diana DeGette in Colorado's 1st Congressional District primary, supports DSA policies like Medicare-for-all but rejects abolishing the Senate and defunding the police.
- Jewish community in Denver on high alert over rise of democratic socialist Melat Kiros
The Jewish community in Denver is concerned over Democratic Socialist Melat Kiros's election victory, citing her controversial remarks about Israel and antisemitic incidents. Rabbi Menachem Lehrfield reported antisemitic harassment following Kiros's win, and a 2025 attack in Boulder killed Karen Diamond during a pro-Israel event.
- Democratic Socialists become a rising force in Democratic politics
A third of Democrats and Democratic-leaning adults identify as democratic socialists, with many pushing for party reforms. Democratic socialists have secured primary wins in House races, including against incumbents Adriano Espaillat and Diana DeGette, and may influence the Wisconsin gubernatorial primary. They tend to be younger, earn less than $100,000 annually, and favor moving the party left on policy issues.
- Buttigieg asked about apparent far-left socialist takeover of party as he calls himself a 'Buttigieg Democrat'
Pete Buttigieg, a potential 2028 candidate, avoided directly criticizing Democratic Socialists of America (DSA) policies during an interview, instead calling himself a 'Buttigieg Democrat.' Reince Priebus, a former RNC chairman, accused Buttigieg of aligning with 'far-left' elements in the party, citing recent DSA-backed candidate victories in primary elections.
- Anti-Israel, Gen Z socialist who ousted 15-term Colorado incumbent calls for ‘more immigrants into office’
An anti-Israel Gen-Z socialist defeated a 15-term Colorado representative and advocated for increased immigrant representation in elected offices as part of a global order 'reckoning'.
- Socialist insurgents force moderate Democrats into high-risk showdown over must-hold races
Progressive candidates, including socialist contenders, have won Democratic primaries in New York and Colorado, shifting the party's ideological conflict to statewide races in Michigan, Wisconsin, and Minnesota. Upcoming Senate and gubernatorial primaries will test if these victories can translate to broader influence, while critics like Andrew Cuomo argue socialism is impractical.
- Socialist insurgents force moderate Democrats into high-risk showdown over must-hold races
Socialist and progressive candidates have won recent Democratic primaries in New York and Colorado, shifting the party's ideological conflict to statewide races in Michigan, Wisconsin, and Minnesota. Upcoming primaries will test if these victories can translate into broader influence, while critics like Andrew Cuomo argue socialism is unrealistic.
- Dem Rep Henry Cuellar rejects DSA agenda, says socialists are trying to 'use' Democratic Party
Rep. Henry Cuellar warned that the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA) are using the Democratic Party as a vehicle to promote a radical agenda, including restructuring the Supreme Court and abolishing ICE. He criticized DSA candidates for masking extreme positions with issues like affordability and housing, and claimed he defeated DSA-backed opponents in primaries by emphasizing border security and oil and gas support.
- Meet the far-left insurgents waging war on the Democratic establishment in 2026 midterms
Far-left candidates backed by groups like Democratic Socialists of America and Justice Democrats have won primary elections in New York City and Colorado, shifting focus to upcoming Midwestern primaries in Missouri, Michigan, and Wisconsin. Progressive victories aim to pressure the Democratic Party ahead of the 2026 midterms, with candidates advocating policies such as Medicare for all and the Green New Deal.
- Meet the far-left insurgents waging war on the Democratic establishment in 2026 midterms
Far-left candidates backed by groups like Democratic Socialists of America and Justice Democrats are challenging Democratic establishment figures in 2026 midterms, with recent primary victories in New York City and Colorado shifting focus to Missouri, Michigan, and Wisconsin. These candidates advocate for policies such as Medicare for all and the Green New Deal, aiming to build momentum ahead of November general elections.
- James Carville unloads on far-left Democrats after primary upsets, says ‘you're part of the problem’
James Carville criticized far-left Democrats for primary election upsets, calling them 'part of the problem' and accusing them of undermining the party by targeting moderate incumbents. He highlighted examples in New York and Colorado where Democratic Socialists unseated longtime Democrats and warned against the influence of 'false prophets' in upcoming midterms.
- How Maine's Democratic meltdown could shape the Senate midterms
Democrats face challenges in Maine's Senate race against Republican Susan Collins as their candidate Graham Platner was removed due to controversies including a rape allegation and a Nazi-themed tattoo. The Democratic Socialists of America's platform and recent primary wins by progressive candidates in New York and Colorado are highlighted as factors influencing the political landscape.
- Melat Kiros say she’s ready for her ‘coalition-building mission’
Melat Kiros, a democratic socialist, won the Democratic primary for Colorado’s First Congressional District and aims to focus on coalition-building and bipartisan legislation in her potential first term. She prioritizes campaign finance reform and plans to advocate for Medicare for All after Democrats gain full government control, while addressing backlash over her stance on antisemitism and Israel-Palestine relations.
- ‘Organized people beats organized money’: What’s next for Denver’s democratic socialists?
Melat Kiros defeated Rep. Diana DeGette in a primary, marking a significant win for Denver's democratic socialists. Kiros, supported by the Denver Democratic Socialists of America, will face Republican Christy Peterson in the Congressional District 1 race. Her campaign emphasized grassroots mobilization and criticism of the Israel-Gaza war.
- Democratic socialists give new life to Medicare for All
Democratic socialists and progressive candidates have gained traction in recent primaries by advocating for Medicare for All, defeating incumbents and establishment favorites in Colorado, New York, and Illinois. The movement reflects growing public frustration with healthcare costs and a shift toward bold policy solutions, though challenges remain in translating this enthusiasm into legislative action.
- Expert who fled Cuba warns of ‘vicious cycle’ that will lead to ‘communists in double digits’ in Congress
A national security expert who fled Cuba warns that a 'vicious cycle' in American politics could lead to 'communists in double digits' in Congress. He attributes the rise of socialist candidates to factors like White guilt and affordability crises, citing recent socialist victories in New York, Seattle, and Colorado.
- Socialist Colorado candidate blames Israel for 'putting Jewish people in great danger'
Socialist Colorado congressional candidate Melat Kiros blamed Israel's actions in the Middle East for inspiring attacks on Jewish people, including a firebombing at a pro-Israel rally in Boulder in 2025. Kiros, who recently won her primary, agreed to discuss concerns with Colorado Attorney General Phil Weiser, who criticized her hesitance to label the Boulder attack as antisemitic.
- How did Denver vote? Let’s go to the maps!
Melat Kiros defeated Rep. Diana DeGette in Denver's 1st Congressional District primary with 53.2% of the vote, winning precincts across city center, west, and north Denver. Voter turnout in Denver's 2026 primary reached 40% of active voters, higher than 2024 and 2022 but similar to 2018. Phil Weiser won Denver's gubernatorial primary with 66% of the vote, while state Sen. Barbara Kirkmeyer led Republican primary support in Denver with 51%.
- Dem CO gov nominee calls out DSA candidate for antisemitism comment
Colorado Attorney General Phil Weiser (D) criticized Melat Kiros (D), a democratic socialist and congressional candidate, for refusing to condemn the 2025 firebomb attack on Jewish activists in Boulder as antisemitic. Weiser, who defeated Sen. Michael Bennett (D) in the Democratic gubernatorial primary, said he would confront Kiros over her stance. Kiros unexpectedly scored an upset victory against incumbent Rep. Diana DeGette.
- Israeli press alarmed as criticism of Israel becomes winning recipe in US politics
Israeli media and pro-Israel groups are alarmed by left-wing Democratic candidates' primary victories in the US, which include Melat Kiros defeating Diana DeGette and Democratic Socialists gaining traction. These candidates criticize Israel's actions in Gaza, Lebanon, Syria, and Iran, signaling a potential shift in US political support for Israel.
- Israeli press alarmed as criticism of Israel becomes winning recipe in US politics
Israeli press reports alarm over primary election wins by US left-wing candidates critical of Israel, with Democratic Socialists defeating pro-Israel incumbents. The Jerusalem Post warns the Democratic Party is shifting away from Israel amid growing support for Palestinian rights and criticism of Israeli policies.
- Israel emerges as new Democratic litmus test
Israel and Gaza policies are becoming a key issue for Democratic primary voters, surpassing the focus on Trump impeachments. Candidates who criticize U.S. military support to Israel, such as those backed by the American Priorities PAC, are gaining traction, while incumbents emphasizing Trump accountability face challenges.
- Pro-Palestine immigrant ousts 30-year veteran in Colorado Democratic primary
Melat Kiros, a 29-year-old Ethiopian immigrant and political newcomer, defeated Diana DeGette in Colorado's 1st congressional district Democratic primary. Kiros, a lawyer and PhD student, unseated DeGette, who has held the congressional seat since before Kiros was born.
- Democratic socialists are winning elections. Will the movement expand?
Democratic socialists are achieving notable election victories in urban areas like New York City and Colorado, with figures such as Mayor Zohran Mamdani and Melat Kiros gaining prominence. The movement emphasizes policies like Medicare for All and housing for all, though experts note challenges in expanding beyond deep blue urban regions to rural and suburban voters ahead of the 2028 presidential election.
- MSU political expert: Kiros' win could reshape Democratic politics in Colorado, nation
Melat Kiros, a democratic socialist, won Colorado's Democratic primary against Rep. Diana DeGette, despite criticism over her lack of political experience. Experts suggest her victory reflects growing left-wing momentum and could influence national Democratic politics, though her stance on Israel has raised concerns.
- What democratic socialist wins mean for Democratic Party's future
Democratic socialists achieved a primary victory in Colorado with Melat Kiros defeating Congresswoman Diana DeGette, ending her 30-year tenure in the state's first congressional district. CBS News' Anthony Salvanto analyzed the outcome.
- The Memo: Left’s winning streak extends in Colorado despite Trump, centrist attacks
The leftist movement in Colorado's Democratic politics led to the defeat of Rep. Diana DeGette and Sen. Michael Bennet's gubernatorial bid, prompting Democrats to reconsider their party direction despite challenges from Trump and centrist opponents.
- Takeaways from Colorado democratic socialist Melat Kiros' House primary win
Melat Kiros, a democratic socialist, won the Colorado House primary against Rep. Diana DeGette. CBS News' Anthony Salvanto provided election analysis.
- Three lessons from this year’s primaries: From the Politics Desk
The article discusses three lessons from this year’s primaries and mentions Rep. Diana DeGette in Denver in 2022.
- Something Is Happening in the Democratic Base
Progressive candidates in Colorado defeated moderate Democrats in primary elections, reflecting broader dissatisfaction within the Democratic base. Voters increasingly favor candidates perceived as anti-establishment, challenging both party leaders and political norms.
- DeGette concedes, says there’s ‘little room’ for politicians like her
U.S. Rep. Diana DeGette conceded her 29-year run as Denver’s congresswoman after losing the Democratic primary to 29-year-old Melat Kiros. DeGette expressed that there is 'little room' for politicians like herself in the current political climate, while congratulating Kiros and thanking her supporters and family.
- Pro-Palestine immigrant ousts 30-year veteran in Colorado Democratic primary
Melat Kiros, a 29-year-old Ethiopian immigrant and political newcomer, defeated Diana DeGette in Colorado's 1st congressional district Democratic primary. DeGette, a three-decade incumbent, had received over $1.6 million from the pro-Israel lobbying group Aipac Tracker.
- DeGette reflects on legacy after loss to progressive challenger
Diana DeGette conceded her Democratic primary loss to Melat Kiros, a progressive challenger, reflecting on her career achievements in environmental protections, medical research, and reproductive rights. Kiros, a democratic socialist, will face Republican Christy Peterson in November after defeating DeGette, a 30-year incumbent.
- The Democratic Incumbents Most at Risk of Losing to Progressive Primary Challengers in 2026
Melat Kiros defeated Diana DeGette, an incumbent running for a 16th term, in Colorado's primary. Kiros is a democratic socialist.