Special election set for Denver City Council seat
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Denver voters will get an unusual opportunity to elect a new City Council member this fall after the body set an election date to fill the at-large seat formerly represented by Sarah Parady.
Why it matters: Replacing the progressive leader is the latest test for the Democratic Socialists of America's local chapter, which backed Parady and hopes to retain the seat.
- Leftist candidates have scored major wins in congressional and statehouse races in Colorado this cycle.
Driving the news: Parady's resignation went into effect Wednesday, prompting City Council to call a Nov. 3 special election to fill her seat.
- The election coincides with the November general election.
- The winner will represent one of two at-large seats on the 13-member council and will serve the remainder of the term, which runs through July 19, 2027.
What they're saying: Denver DSA has previously said it's keen on keeping the at-large seat. The organization did not respond to a request for comment Wednesday.
Between the lines: Eight other candidates filed paperwork for at-large seat B, but not all have committed to running in the special election, City Clerk and Recorder Paul López tells us.
- At least three candidates told the Denver Post last month that they plan to run.
The special election requires a plurality of votes to win the seat, López adds.
- Candidates for the same seat will need to obtain more than 50% of the vote during April's municipal election to avoid a runoff.
What's next: A Sept. 2 drawing will determine the candidate ballot order.