Democratic socialist Melat Kiros has won the race for Colorado’s 1st Congressional District, according to an Associated Press race call, becoming the first Gen Z woman elected to Congress. The 29-year-old Ethiopian immigrant and lawyer will represent a district that includes most of Denver.
Kiros’ victory came months after she defeated 15-term incumbent Diana DeGette in the Democratic primary. That contest drew attention amid voter frustration with party leaders in Washington and calls for political change.
She was among several House candidates who won with endorsements from the Democratic Socialists of America or its local chapters. Candidates in that group advocated policies including Medicare for All and universal childcare, alongside more contentious proposals such as abolishing Immigration and Customs Enforcement and ending U.S. military aid to Israel.
Kiros’ criticism of Israel and its war in Gaza drew controversy during the campaign. Independent candidate Shimon Blau accused her of using antisemitic rhetoric; Kiros rejected that characterization, saying her criticism was directed at the state of Israel, not Jewish people.
In a February interview with NPR, Kiros said young voters were drawn to her policy positions and called for leaders willing to pursue bold policies. Gen Z representation in Congress remains limited: Florida Democrat Maxwell Frost, elected to the House in 2022, was the only sitting member under 30 at the time of the report.
Sources: NPR News.