The current representative for Colorado’s 3rd Congressional District has outlined a focus on local needs and a commitment to representing the diverse interests of the district, which includes Grand Junction and other Western Slope communities. The representative, who grew up in Grand Junction and returned more than a decade ago with their wife Barbora to raise their family, emphasized that rural communities are best equipped to understand their own challenges.
During their first term in Congress, the representative stated that their work has been guided by the principle that "government works best when it listens to the people closest to the problem." This approach stems from a career spent working with rural electric cooperatives before entering public service.
The 3rd Congressional District is described as vast and varied, encompassing agricultural areas like the San Luis Valley, energy-producing regions on the Western Slope, Pueblo’s steel mill, mountain towns, tribal nations, and significant public lands. Despite political differences, the representative noted that these communities share common concerns, including economic stability for families, reliable water for ranchers and farmers, a strong workforce for employers, access to rural health care, and affordable energy.
Water has been a particular priority for the representative, calling it the “lifeblood” of Western communities. They noted that decisions regarding infrastructure, conservation, storage, forecasting, and the Colorado River will have long-term impacts on western Colorado. The representative stated they have worked across party lines on water legislation, believing it should not be a partisan issue.
Similarly, public lands management has been a central focus. The representative expressed a strong belief in multiple use and in keeping decision-making connected to the communities most affected by federal land management policies. They affirmed that conservation and responsible economic use are not conflicting ideas.
Beyond specific policy areas, the representative has also worked to improve the functionality of government. Their first bill signed into law aimed to strengthen long-term funding for wetlands conservation and outdoor access. They have collaborated with members from both major parties on issues including water, conservation, health care, permitting, and congressional reform. The representative stated they have at times disagreed with their own party or the administration when they believed it was in the interest of Colorado’s 3rd District or the constitutional system.
Looking ahead, the representative expressed a commitment to making western Colorado more affordable by increasing housing supply, producing American energy, reducing unnecessary regulatory delays, and fostering good-paying jobs. They also highlighted the need for a secure border and an immigration system that addresses workforce demands in sectors like agriculture and hospitality.
Other key areas of focus include protecting rural health care, ensuring federal health programs serve those who depend on them, strengthening water infrastructure, defending Colorado’s water interests, responsibly managing forests and public lands, and enhancing community resilience to wildfire and drought. The representative also voiced a desire for Congress to function more effectively, focusing on delivering results rather than political theater, and reclaiming its constitutional responsibilities.
Ultimately, the representative's stated goal is to faithfully represent the district, protect the western Colorado way of life, and leave local communities stronger for the next generation. This work, they stated, began in their first term and remains their ongoing commitment.
