Senator Jessie Danielson Announces Bid for Colorado Secretary of State

Jefferson County, Colorado, USA - On July 15, 2025, Democratic State Senator Jessie Danielson officially kicked off her campaign for Colorado Secretary of State, aiming for a seat in the upcoming November 2026 election. Her chief goal? To tackle issues surrounding threats to voting rights head-on. Danielson’s vision includes fostering a supportive environment for election workers and ensuring that the voting process remains free and fair for all Coloradans.

As the current Secretary of State, Democrat Jena Griswold, prepares to step aside due to term limits and pursue a run for Attorney General, the race for her replacement is heating up. Danielson, who represents Jefferson County’s District 22, shares her roots as a fourth-generation Coloradan and has a rich history in public service. First elected to the Colorado Senate in 2018, she has been actively engaged in legislation regarding election modernization since 2013, serving as the Chair of the Business, Labor & Technology Committee and as Vice Chair of the Agriculture & Natural Resources Committee.

A Focus on Collaboration

Danielson underscores the importance of collaboration in her campaign. She emphasizes the need to work alongside local leaders and election officials to build trust within communities. Her campaign also highlights endorsements from influential figures, including Arapahoe County Commissioner Rhonda Fields and Colorado House Majority Leader Monica Duran, reinforcing her commitment to community engagement and partnership.

In the chaotic landscape of elections in Colorado, Danielson’s experience as a state lawmaker since 2015 and her past role as the state director for America Voters add weight to her bid. Furthermore, her work with various nonprofits focusing on abortion rights, housing, and women’s representation positions her as a multifaceted candidate.

Addressing Misinformation

As the election draws closer, Coloradans may face the rising threat of misinformation, a topic that has become even more critical. The Colorado Secretary of State’s office warns that the sophistication of disinformation tactics has escalated, complicating the identification of false information. Amidst swirling misinformation campaigns, Danielson’s emphasis on accurate communication regarding voting rights and the electoral process is vital.

The Secretary of State’s office advises voters to pause before sharing information online and to rely on trusted local sources for election-related details. Misleading narratives can undermine the integrity of elections and fracture community trust. Danielson’s commitment to countering these threats will be critical as she steps into the race.

The Road Ahead

As the political landscape shifts, Danielson faces competition not only from within her party, with Jefferson County Clerk Amanda Gonzalez also vying for the Democratic nomination, but also from Republican contenders Cory Parella and Ross Taraborelli, as well as Unaffiliated candidate Melissa Richards. With the potential for a heated primary season, Danielson has her work cut out for her.

In the ever-evolving arena of politics, Jessie Danielson’s campaign for Secretary of State represents a blend of experience, community engagement, and a critical focus on safeguarding voting rights. As she gears up for what promises to be an energetic election cycle, voters can expect a spirited debate on the way forward for Colorado’s electoral system.