Jessica Killin Wins Democratic Primary in Colorado’s 5th Congressional District

Jessica Killin emerged victorious in the Democratic primary for Colorado’s 5th Congressional District. Her win sets a contest against incumbent Republican Rep. Jeff Crank in November for the Colorado Springs seat. This information comes from the Associated Press.

Killin, a former Army captain and ex-chief of staff to second gentleman Doug Emhoff, defeated Joe Reagan, an Army veteran and nonprofit leader. Crank, running unopposed in the Republican primary, aims for a second term representing the district, which focuses on Colorado Springs and El Paso County, noted for its military communities.

Jessica Killin, stepping into the race as a newcomer, garnered national support and substantial fundraising. On the other side, Reagan, a 2024 candidate for the seat, relied on his local ties, military service, and work with veterans.

The general election will measure whether Democrats can advance in a historically Republican district encompassing Fort Carson, the Air Force Academy, and the expanding suburbs of Colorado Springs.

National Democrats are watching this race closely due to signs of competitiveness in the Colorado Springs district, traditionally a Republican base. According to The Colorado Sun, Trump’s margin in El Paso County, mostly aligning with the 5th District, declined from 22 points in 2016 to 10 points in 2024. Republican margins in House races have similarly decreased over the decade.

The Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee (DCCC) has included Killin in its Red to Blue program. This move signals national Democrats’ view of the Republican-held seat as a chance for gains, despite its GOP-leaning nature.

Jeff Crank, the district’s incumbent, has a strong resume. He served seven years as a Capitol Hill staffer, returning to Colorado for roles such as Vice President of the Colorado Springs Chamber of Commerce, Chief Operating Officer at Americans for Prosperity, and real estate investment company president, as listed on his campaign site.

In broadcasting, Crank hosted The Jeff Crank Show in Colorado and the American Potential Podcast. During a June 11, 2024, event, Crank addressed supporters at the Brandt Barn in Black Forest, Colorado.

Before the primary, Killin aligned with a centrist Democratic initiative, prioritizing capitalism, public safety, fiscal responsibility, secure borders, and national pride. Moreover, she emphasized that the Democratic Socialists of America should not define the party’s image during a news conference, as reported by Colorado Politics.