Colorado Democrat Melat Kiros dismisses GOP claims of communist influence in DSA

In a conversation on one outlet’s “Firing Line,” Colorado’s Democratic congressional nominee Melat Kiros brushed aside Republican concerns that the Democratic Socialists of America harbors communists, labeling the criticism as partisan distraction. When asked directly if she was a communist, Kiros affirmed she was not, and pointed out that the DSA’s economic populist message is resonating with voters, prompting GOP backlash. She explained that the DSA’s platform is decided democratically by its members, so individual supporters may not endorse every plank, such as abolishing the Senate or defunding the police.

Kiros, who defeated 15-term incumbent Diana DeGette, also defended her broader socialist philosophy while supporting policies like Medicare for all, universal childcare, and a 32-hour workweek. The interview referenced recent DSA successes in other races and cited one outlet's poll showing 56% of registered voters view the organization unfavorably, though 59% of Democrats hold a favorable view. No comment was received from the RNC, Kiros, or the DSA.