The son of Eritrean immigrants, 33-year-old Joe Neguse hopes to replace current Colorado congressman Jared Polis, taking his seat in Colorado's 2nd Congressional District. By throwing his hat in the ring, Neguse could make history as Colorado’s first black congressman.

"If I’m elected, I will be a passionate advocate for protecting our rights as Coloradans and Americans," Neguse stated. "But, I believe there are unique challenges that our generation is going to have to solve that will require bold, progressive leadership. We’re spending a lot of time traveling the district, and the response has been terrific."

According to Westword, Neguse is a native of Littleton and Highlands Ranch. He attended the University of Colorado in Boulder where he graduated summa cum laude in 2005.

After graduation, Neguse dedicated his career to service. He has spent a large portion of his post-collegiate career performing in two significant roles – one being a regent for the University of Colorado and the other as executive director of Colorado's Department of Regulatory Agencies.

On top of that, Neguse also founded New Era Colorado, a nonprofit organization focused on increasing youth voter engagement.

With his optimism high as he campaigns, Neguse fits the bill of a progressive liberal with a heart for the people, supporting a $15 minimum wage and making combating climate change a pillar of his platform. Following Congressman Polis' announcement to run for governor, Neguse had a long discussion with his family about his political aspirations before he decided to run to represent the 2nd Congressional District.

“It was ultimately an easy decision," he said. "If there was ever a time for people from different walks of life to stand up, this would be it."

As if his outline for change is not enough to garner the backing he’d need, Neguse already has the support of his state’s Democratic Party. Additionally, he has raised more than $75,000 in the second quarter – a significant financial purse for a new politician. Being one of five candidates on the Democratic ticket, Neguse understands that the fight won’t be easy, but is assured that it’s for the right reasons.

“We’ve got to fight across the board, as Democrats, to take back Congress,” he said.

We look forward to seeing just how much positive impact his campaign will have on the state of Colorado and state of our nation. Best of luck, Joe Neguse!

American dream

Get relevant content delivered to you once a week