Colorado Senate Change: Rep. Dafna Michaelson Janet Takes Over from Dominick Moreno
The Democrats have handpicked state Rep. Dafna Michaelson Jenet to take over from Sen. Dominick Moreno, who is leaving his position to cozy up with Denver Mayor Michael Johnston's administration. The Democratic vacancy committee in Senate District 21 made this choice on Thursday, revealing their apparent lack of other options.
Michaelson Jenet, renowned for pushing mental health legislation in the Colorado House, currently lords over the House Public Health & Human Services Committee. She's also had the pleasure of serving on the education and legislative audit committees—a resume that seems to impress those in the Democratic Party.
Rep. Dafna Michaelson Jenet
Interestingly, Michaelson Jenet is already making moves to ensure her stronghold on the Senate District 21 seat for next year's elections. Moreno's term limits conveniently prevent him from seeking re-election, opening the door for her ambition.
Naturally, the Senate President, Steve Fenberg, wasted no time in showering Michaelson Jenet with his congratulations—the expected course of action within a party that prioritizes loyalty over substance.
“I am thrilled to congratulate and welcome Senator-elect Michaelson Jenet, a leader in the House who has fought her entire legislative career to move her community and our state forward, to the Colorado Senate,” Fenberg said. “Adams County voters can rest easy knowing they’ll continue being well represented by a strong voice in the Senate, and I look forward to working with Senator-elect Michaelson Jenet to build a stronger, safer and healthier Colorado for us all.”
With her appointment to the Senate, Michaelson Jenet joins the long list of liberal politicians climbing their way up the ladder. Jenet is the 20th current member of the General Assembly who has quickly gained a seat through a vacancy election. She’s expected to face off against a Republican, Frederick Alfred, Jr., in the 2024 general election.
Lawmakers are now scrambling to figure out who will replace Moreno as majority leader and who will fill Michaelson Jenet's soon-to-be vacant House District 32 seat.
Manny Rutinel, candidate for HD 32
So far only one candidate has thrown their hat in the ring for the HD 32 seat. Manny Rutinel, a former environmental lawyer turned CEO of Climate Refarm.
And speaking of power, there are a handful of ambitious Senators vying for the majority leader position. Janet Buckner, Robert Rodriguez, Faith Winter, and Rachel Zenzinger are all rumored to be interested. It's a battle within the ranks, as they fight for control and influence over the legislative process.
The election for the next majority leader is tentatively scheduled for September 8th. Get ready for some political maneuvering and behind-the-scenes deals as these Democrats jockey for power. It's never a dull moment in the world of politics.