Summary
- Former Democratic Congresswoman Yadira Caraveo withdrew Friday.
- Exited race for Colorado’s 8th Congressional District seat.
- Cited strong resistance due to mental health stigma.
- Lost seat to Republican Gabe Evans in the 2024 election.
In a primary fight for Colorado's most politically competitive district, Caraveo was one of numerous Democratic candidates. She had intended to rematch with Republican Gabe Evans, who defeated her by roughly 2,600 votes in November of last year.
Caraveo thanked her supporters in a written letter, adding that she did not make the choice lightly.
“Unfortunately, I faced very strong resistance to my candidacy this cycle due almost entirely to the stigmatization of mental health in America,”
she wrote.
“I hope that one day we will see more acceptance and understanding of illnesses like depression, and that leaders at all levels will be able to support those in need in actions and not just words.”
Caraveo has openly discussed her mental health issues while serving in Congress, including two ER visits prior to seeking in-person assistance at Walter Reed Hospital in Washington, D.C. At the time, Caraveo kept the information to himself.
Ahead of the midterm elections, the 8th Congressional District which includes Greeley in Weld County and the northern Denver suburbs is regarded as a toss-up.
Some of her former employees accused her of mistreating them, and when Caraveo was having mental health issues, they asked for a safety plan.
Progressives in the area also criticized Caraveo for her voting record, which included endorsing a resolution denouncing then-Vice President Kamala Harris after she was nominated by the party for president.
The former congresswoman's campaign was not going well. She did not receive any endorsements from her former Colorado Democratic colleagues or support from the House Democratic campaign arm, which has been neutral in the primary; she did not demonstrate strong fundraising numbers; and fellow Democrats kept entering the race even as she attempted to regain her seat.
Bird, who served with Caraveo in the state House, thanked Caraveo for her past service to Colorado.
“Yadira has always fought to make life better for the next generation. I’m confident that she’ll bring that same commitment to her next chapter,”
she said in a statement.
In statements of their own, Munsing called Caraveo a champion for Colorado, while Young emphasized that he wishes Caraveo nothing but the best in her next chapter.
“I thank former Congresswoman Yadira Caraveo for her years of service to our state and our communities, both as a pediatrician and as an elected official. Her commitment to public health and to the people of Colorado has left a meaningful impact in people’s lives.”
The primary takes place at the end of June 2026.
What reasons did party officials give in response to her exit?
Democratic leaders expressed sympathy for Caraveo, recognizing the toll that public service and the stigma around mental health can take on candidates and officials.
They highlighted the importance of mental health awareness in politics and pledged to support her decision while encouraging a broader conversation about mental health challenges faced by public servants.
Some officials noted Caraveo's courage in being open about her struggles, calling it a step towards changing perceptions and reducing stigma.
Party leaders also reassured voters and activists that Democratic candidates remain committed to winning and representing the district effectively, despite her withdrawal.