Colorado’s 7th congressional district has a new representative — Democrat Brittany Pettersen

Throughout her time within the legislature, Pettersen centered on laws round public well being, from combating habit and the opioid disaster to rising entry to household planning. She mentioned, if elected, she could be thinking about becoming a member of the Vitality and Commerce Committee or Methods and Means, whereas acknowledging that it’s laborious for freshman lawmakers to safe spots on these highly effective our bodies. 

She outraised her opponent within the race, Republican Erik Aadland, who served within the navy and labored for an vitality firm earlier than pursuing workplace. She additionally bought help from the Democratic management PAC and Home marketing campaign arm.

The seventh congressional district was seen as a possible choose up alternative for Republicans when Perlmutter introduced his retirement in January. Redistricting gave it a Democratic lean of solely seven factors, winnable in a Republican wave 12 months. Nonetheless, the crimson tide in different components of the nation seemed extra like a ripple in Colorado. 

Except for considerations about the price of dwelling and crime, many citizens within the district additionally instructed CPR Information they’re apprehensive about the way forward for abortion entry and defending democracy within the wake of the January 6 riot and debunked claims of widespread voter fraud in 2020.