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.
