Trump-supported Republican wins Colorado House race against Democrat incumbent

Republican candidate Gabe Evans, endorsed by former President Donald Trump, emerged victorious in the primary race against Janak Joshi to represent Colorado’s 8th Congressional District in the House.

Evans, a current member of the Colorado House of Representatives, has a diverse background that includes serving in the U.S. Army and Colorado Army National Guard as a UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter pilot and company commander. Additionally, he has worked as an Arvada police officer for over a decade and now teaches a concealed carry class in the district during his free time from legislative duties.

Evans’ campaign is built on four core pillars, which are American prosperity, security, education, and the defense of American values. He received support from Trump and several prominent Republicans, including House Speaker Mike Johnson, in the primary election.

On the other hand, Joshi, a retired physician, was endorsed by the Colorado Republican Party. However, it was Evans who clinched the victory in the race, securing Trump’s full endorsement along the way.

Following his triumph in the primary, Evans is set to face incumbent Democratic Rep. Yadira Caraveo in the general election on Nov. 5. Caraveo, a former Colorado state representative, has been representing the district in the House since 2023.

Caraveo’s campaign criticized Evans for his alignment with Trump, accusing him of doing anything to win the election. They highlighted their differences on various issues, including immigration and border security.

Evans’ campaign has emphasized the need for border security, citing the border crisis that they believe started when President Biden took office. They argue that criminal activity in Colorado is driven not only by local criminals but also by international organizations taking advantage of the open border.

Caraveo, on the other hand, has a different stance on immigration issues, as evidenced by her votes against certain border security measures and efforts to impeach Homeland Security Sec. Alejandro Mayorkas. She has been part of calls to relax immigration rules and reduce funding for immigration enforcement agencies.

The upcoming general election is expected to be closely contested, with analysts labeling the race in Colorado’s 8th District as a “Democrat Toss Up.” Both candidates are likely to focus on key issues like immigration, border security, and other policies that impact the residents of the district.