Jessica Killin won the Democratic primary in Colorado’s 5th Congressional District on July 1, 2026, setting up a general election match-up against incumbent Rep. Jeff Crank, a Republican. Killin, a former Army captain and chief of staff to Doug Emhoff, defeated Joe Reagan, another Army veteran and nonprofit leader, according to the Associated Press. Crank, who ran unopposed in the Republican primary, is seeking a second term in a district that includes Colorado Springs and parts of El Paso County, known for its military communities.
Killin entered the race as a first-time candidate with national support and strong fundraising, while Reagan focused on his local roots and experience helping veterans. The general election will assess whether Democrats can gain ground in this historically Republican district, which has shown signs of becoming more competitive. Recent reports indicate that Donald Trump's margin in El Paso County decreased from 22 points in 2016 to 10 points in 2024, and Republican margins in House races have also narrowed.
The Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee (DCCC) included Killin in its Red to Blue program, indicating that national Democrats view the Republican-held seat as a potential pickup opportunity. Crank, the current incumbent, has a background in broadcasting and has held various positions, including Vice President for the Colorado Springs Chamber of Commerce and Chief Operating Officer at Americans for Prosperity. Killin has aligned herself with centrist Democratic values and expressed opposition to candidates associated with the Democratic Socialists of America, stating they should not represent the party.