Progressive state Representative Manny Rutinel has emerged victorious in the Democratic primary for Colorado’s 8th congressional district.
He secured the nomination after a massive financial boost from a crypto-affiliated political action committee.
The campaign was bolstered by $1 million in support from the "You Can Push Back" Super PAC, which is an organization founded by Ripple's Chris Larsen.
Rutinel comfortably defeated his opponent, the more moderate former state Rep. Shannon Bird, with a 60.9% share of the votes.
Rutinel, who hails from Commerce City, is now set to face off against the Republican Representative Gabe Evans in November.
Rutinel leaned into his progressive roots and leveraged key demographic advantages. Prominent Latino groups heavily supported Rutinel (the demographic makes up 40% of the population).
One of the most competitive seats
Rutinel is going after one of the most competitive congressional seats in the entire country.
Republicans are optimistic about facing Rutinel instead of Bird, given that the progressive candidate will be easier to defeat in a swing district.
GOP strategists have already begun circulating images of Rutinel rallying with extreme far-left democratic socialist figures like New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani.
Incumbent Gabe Evans has already stockpiled a formidable $3.4 million to defend his seat. However, Democrats’ top House super PAC has already reserved millions of dollars in advertising ahead of November.
Rutinel has already begun softening some of his most left-leaning policy positions, backing away from his previous support for Medicare for All and his opposition to fracking. However, it remains to be seen whether or not this will be enough for the voters who are concerned about the rise of demographic socialism within the party.
U.Today Editorial Team
Dan Burgin
