Colorado Treasurer Dave Young has officially announced the suspension of his campaign in the 8th Congressional District. This decision, made public on Friday morning, comes as Young prioritizes his family’s health needs. In his statement, he emphasized the importance of family and highlighted his responsibilities as state treasurer.
Implications of Young’s Exit from the Race
Young’s departure marks a significant shift in the Democratic primary, which is already highly competitive. Following his announcement, the race is now concentrated among three main candidates vying for the Democratic nomination.
Current Candidates in the Democratic Primary
- Shannon Bird: A state representative from Westminster, Bird has been successful in fundraising and receiving endorsements.
- Manny Rutinel: Serving as a state representative from Commerce City, Rutinel is also a leading contender in this race.
- Evan Munsing: A newcomer running for office, Munsing is a Marine veteran looking to make his mark.
Young is not the only candidate to leave the race. Former U.S. Rep. Yadira Caraveo and Amie Baca-Oehlert, a notable education leader, have also withdrawn. Caraveo was aiming to reclaim her congressional seat, which she narrowly lost to Republican Gabe Evans in 2024.
The Competitive Landscape
As the Democratic primary approaches in June, the focus intensifies on the candidates still in the race. Evans, the incumbent Republican, has reportedly amassed nearly $2 million in campaign funds as of early October. This financial advantage sets a formidable challenge for the Democratic contenders.
Overview of the 8th Congressional District
The 8th Congressional District encompasses Denver’s northern suburbs, stretching along U.S. 85 into Greeley. The demographic diversity and competitive nature of the district make it a focal point for both parties, especially as the national political landscape evolves.
As the primary date nears, Democratic candidates will need to sharpen their strategies to effectively challenge Evans and secure their spot in the upcoming election.
