Progressive Veterans Organization Backs Two House Candidates in Colorado

The Progressive Veterans Organization announced its support for two House candidates on Thursday as they prepare to take on incumbents Lauren Boebert (R-Colo.) and Jeff Crank (R-Colo.).

This group focuses on electing Democratic veterans to office and has endorsed Eileen Laubach, who is running against Boebert in Colorado’s fourth legislative district, and Jessica Killin, contesting the fifth district. Both districts have a notable population of military veterans.

“Jessica and Irene are dedicated to their public service, and their campaigns reflect a sincere, selfless dedication to problem-solving,” noted former Congressman Max Rose (D-N.Y.), who serves as a senior adviser for the organization.

He added, “They represent a new approach to leadership and embody a winning strategy for the future.”

In preparation for the upcoming off-year elections in November and the midterms next year, the group is building a strong support base. Just this past Wednesday, they also endorsed Marine Corps veteran Ryan Crosswell, who is among three Democrats aiming to challenge Rep. Ryan Mackenzie (R-PA) in Pennsylvania’s 7th Congressional District. Earlier this year, the organization committed $500,000 to former Rep. Abigail Spanberger’s campaign for governor in Virginia.

Both Laubach and Killin will be competing in districts that tend to favor Republicans. The nonpartisan Cook Political Report places Crank’s district at R+9 and Boebert’s at R+5.

Laubach is one of four Democrats vying to unseat Boebert. A retired rear admiral in the Navy and a former National Security Council staff member, her campaign recently announced it raised $1.9 million in just the first quarter.

Killin, who began her campaign for Crank’s seat earlier this month, is also participating in a crowded Democratic primary, facing off against four other challengers.

“The demographics of the district are shifting,” Killin remarked in an interview. “People are getting fed up with both parties. They genuinely want representatives who will prioritize the needs of the community.”

Previously, Killin served as Chief of Staff for former Senator Doug Emhoff, and she also worked with Rep. Marie Gluesenkamp Perez (D-Wash), as well as former Representatives Carolyn Maloney (D-N.Y.) and Donna Shalala (D-Fla.).