Hispanic voters describe themselves as conservative and distrustful 

CANNON CITY | Royal Gorge Bridge, a must-see when visiting the area of Colorado’s 5th Congressional District. (Photo/EFE)

7 CANDIDATES REGISTERED FOR THE JUNE 25 PRIMARIES

Newsroom El Comercio de Colorado

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Get to know the characteristics of Colorado’s 5th Congressional District, which includes the city of Colorado Springs and its surroundings.

How many Hispanics live in this district? 

The total population of the district increased from 718,457 in 2010 to 832,377 in 2020, according to the U.S. Census (Census 2020, 2020), representing a 15.9% growth. Within this demographic change, the Hispanic population experienced significant growth. In 2010, Hispanics accounted for 14.3% of the total population. A decade later, the Hispanic population represents 16.9% of the district’s total population.

Military Bases and Protected Natural Areas 

Colorado Springs, the second most populous city in Colorado, represents the most important and diverse urban center of the entire district. This district is home to six U.S. Air Force bases, and the people from these installations contribute to the development of Fort Carson and Fountain. The area has protected zones for tourism like Canon City, as well as sensitive areas like Black Forest, which has experienced wildfires.

Hispanic voters concerns

According to the Colorado Latino Policy Agenda in 2022, Hispanic voters in Colorado’s 5th Congressional District show clear concerns about economic issues and the cost of living. According to this report, 40% of respondents in this region identified the economy as their main concern, closely followed by the need to reduce healthcare costs.

Additionally, a few months before the most recent congressional election, gun violence also emerged as a major concern for Hispanic voters in Colorado Springs. An impressive 83% of Latino adults in this district expressed fear that their children might be victims of mass shootings. Voters also aspire for elected leaders to reflect the racial and ethnic diversity of the community.

Conservative and Distrustful

According to the Colorado Latino Policy Agenda 2022, 2023 report, Hispanic voters in the 5th Congressional District show a conservative inclination, with 23% identifying as such, the highest percentage in the state. However, they also express significant concern about social justice issues.

Furthermore, the report notes that these voters have less trust in federal political institutions compared to state and local ones. This lack of trust in the federal government could influence how candidates connect with this demographic group.

Candidates in the District 5 Primaries 

This upcoming June 25, voters will be able to choose leaders of a new generation to represent them in Congress.

Republicans

Demócratas

Unaffiliated and Other Parties

Joseph Oliver Gaye (Unaffiliated) 

With experience at Northrop Grumman, an aerospace, defense, and security technology company, and Lockheed Martin, Gaye advocates for addressing national issues from a common-sense perspective. Focuses on democracy, national security, and the wealth gap, promoting diversity as a strength.

Christopher Douglas Mitchell (Constitution Party) 

Engineer. Describes himself as a constitutional conservative criticizing the influence of extreme elements in government. Seeks to restore the principles of individual liberty and self-determination according to the U.S. Constitution.

Katrina Nguyen (Unaffiliated) 

With no previous political experience, she focuses on practical solutions to problems like food insecurity and pollution. Promotes organic farming and addresses social issues like human trafficking and plastic pollution.

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