Democratic Socialist Melat Kiros Unseats Rep. Diana DeGette in Colorado Democratic Primary

Democratic socialist Melat Kiros secured a major upset in Colorado’s Democratic primary, defeating longtime U.S. Representative Diana DeGette in a closely watched race that signals the continued rise of progressive candidates within the Democratic Party. The victory marks another success for left-wing challengers seeking to reshape the party ahead of the 2026 midterm elections.

According to projections from multiple U.S. media outlets, Kiros defeated DeGette, who had represented the Denver-area congressional district for 15 terms. With approximately 78% of ballots counted, Kiros held a lead of nearly 7,000 votes, giving her a decisive advantage in the primary contest.

At 29 years old, Kiros has emerged as one of the Democratic Party’s newest progressive voices. Born in Ethiopia and brought to the United States as an infant, she previously worked as an attorney before being dismissed from her law firm after refusing to remove a social media post criticizing law firms over their positions on the Israel-Palestine conflict. She has repeatedly described Israel’s military campaign in Gaza as genocide, making the issue a central part of her political platform.

Her campaign also attracted attention due to her criticism of Democratic lawmakers who support Israel and her association with socialist political commentator Hasan Piker. Critics have questioned Piker’s rhetoric, while supporters argue that Kiros represents a new generation of candidates willing to challenge the Democratic establishment on foreign policy and other progressive priorities.

Kiros' victory continues a broader trend of democratic socialist candidates gaining momentum across the United States. Earlier this summer, several candidates affiliated with or endorsed by the Democratic Socialists of America won key primary races in New York City, including three candidates backed by Mayor Zohran Mamdani.

With Colorado’s congressional district considered overwhelmingly Democratic, Kiros is widely expected to be the favorite in the November general election. Her primary win underscores growing grassroots support for progressive policies and highlights the ongoing ideological shift within parts of the Democratic Party as younger candidates increasingly challenge long-serving incumbents.