Denver business community worries about socialist policies after DSA primary win
After democratic socialist Melat Kiros defeated long-time incumbent Diana DeGette in Denver's Democratic primary, local business leaders warn that upcoming policies could raise costs and taxes for companies.
Democratic socialist candidate Melat Kiros unseated 15-term incumbent Diana DeGette in Denver's June Democratic primary, boosting the DSA's foothold in the state. J.J. Ament, president and CEO of the Denver Metro Chamber of Commerce, warned that the party's rhetoric often overlooks basic economic constraints, noting that Colorado's shift to single-party Democratic control has already increased regulations, fees and taxes.
Business owners like Brad Deen of Import Mechanics and coffee-shop operator Jamie Sanchez recount escalating crime, homelessness and the impact of higher minimum-wage rules on staffing and profitability. Deen helped launch the South Broadway General Improvement District, which imposed a self-tax to pay for security and cleaning crews. Both entrepreneurs say they are wary of future corporate-tax hikes championed by Kiros, fearing the burden will fall on smaller employers. The chamber aims to highlight the practical costs of running a business while advocating for policies that reduce barriers for new companies.
Why it matters
The story shows how a shift toward democratic socialism could reshape taxes and regulations, directly affecting local businesses and the regional economy.
In this story
