DSA-Backed Challenger Defeats Longtime Incumbent in Denver Primary

Representative Diana DeGette, a Democrat from Colorado and a 30-year veteran in the House, lost a pivotal primary race. She was defeated by Melat Kiros, a 29-year-old socialist backed by the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA). This event represents a significant victory for socialist movements in the United States.

Kiros secured her win in a district known for its strong Democratic leanings in Denver. The Associated Press confirmed the result, highlighting the growing strength of socialist candidates nationwide. The DSA, leveraging a series of recent successes in New York City elections, marked this as another step in their expanding influence.

A DSA social media post referenced the growing momentum, stating, “Today, the East Coast, next week the Mountain West.” During a press conference outside the U.S. Capitol earlier this year, Rep. DeGette had emphasized her progressive credentials. She aimed to use her senior position in the House to advocate for Medicare-for-All and stressed her experience in Trump’s second impeachment trial.

Endorsements and Diverging Views

Kiros, who hails from Ethiopia, received endorsements from influential figures such as Senator Bernie Sanders and Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez. The Justice Democrats and controversial figure Hasan Piker also supported her campaign. In contrast, DeGette was backed by Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal, former chair of the Congressional Progressive Caucus.

While both candidates had similar policy goals, their views diverged sharply on specific issues like Israel and corporate PAC contributions. Kiros criticized DeGette for accepting funds from corporate PACs. Kiros herself, a law student and attorney, gained notoriety when a 2023 open letter she authored led to her dismissal from a New York law firm. The letter defended pro-Palestinian statements that many viewed as antisemitic.

Controversy and Debate

Kiros’ contentious statements have sparked debate. For instance, she described attacks against Israel as outcomes of systemic issues, leading to accusations of excusing terrorism. In a June 2025 resolution, only two lawmakers, Reps. Rashida Tlaib and Thomas Massie, abstained from voting to condemn these acts.

Kiros has also made inflammatory comments about American foreign policy. She characterized the September 11 attacks as a consequence of the United States destabilizing the Middle East. Such statements have led to sharp criticism from her political opponents.

DeGette’s Response and Election Dynamics

DeGette responded to Kiros’ positions by expressing outrage on social media. She called Kiros’ views on terrorism and violence “shocking and disgusting.” Colorado’s 1st Congressional District is notably liberal, having favored former Vice President Kamala Harris by a wide margin in the past.

The primary was further complicated by another contender, University of Colorado Regent Wanda James. Though her campaign did not pose a major threat to DeGette or Kiros, it drew some support that might have influenced the final outcome.