Anil Pesaramelli
DemocraticQ1 What advisory mechanisms will you implement to ensure that evidence and scientific findings play a crucial role in your policymaking process?
“I will make evidence-based policymaking a core part of my work by creating advisory circles of scientists, educators, public health experts, engineers, economists, workers, and community members. I will rely on nonpartisan research, expert briefings, and transparent review of evidence before major decisions. I will also support clear goals, data tracking, and regular policy reviews so we can adjust when the facts show something is not working.”
Q2 Colorado farmers are facing multiple threats, amidst water scarcity and rising prices for fertilizer and other imported materials. As agriculture is our #1 export sector, in what ways do you imagine using your role to support evidence-based advancements to protect and support our farmers and natural resources in the years ahead?
“Colorado farmers are facing water scarcity, rising costs, and climate pressures, and I would support practical, evidence-based solutions that protect both farms and natural resources. That includes water-smart agriculture, drought-resilient crops, soil health, precision irrigation, stronger local supply chains, and partnerships with CSU, conservation districts, and farmers. Farmers must be at the table so policy reflects both science and real-world experience.”
Q3 America has a growing AI industry, supporting cutting-edge innovation but raising issues of resource use, privacy, and economics. What is the right balance of costs and benefits for new data center construction in Colorado, and how would your policies accomplish that balance?
“Colorado should welcome AI innovation and good jobs, but not at the expense of our water, energy grid, neighborhoods, or ratepayers. I would support data centers only with strong standards for water efficiency, clean energy, grid reliability, land-use compatibility, and public transparency. Large users should pay their fair share for grid upgrades, and tax incentives should be tied to local hiring, efficiency, renewable energy, water conservation, and community benefit. We should also put job protections and utility rate protections in place. “
Q4 Colorado has experienced a lingering measles outbreak since March of 2025. What evidence-based policies do you support to improve community and preventive health for your constituents, for infectious diseases and other threats?
“I support evidence-based public health policies focused on prevention, trust, and rapid response. That means expanding vaccine access and education, strengthening local public health departments, improving outbreak tracking and communication, and protecting schools, seniors, and vulnerable residents. I would also invest in broader preventive health, including mental health, maternal health, chronic disease prevention, nutrition, air quality, and affordable primary care.”
Q5 What are your opinions on the current state of science literacy, and how could K-12 education standards be adapted to form a better public understanding of and relationship building in science?
“Science literacy should help students understand evidence, ask good questions, recognize misinformation, and make informed decisions. I would support K-12 standards that focus on hands-on learning, critical thinking, data interpretation, source evaluation, and real-world problem solving. We should also connect students with local scientists, farmers, engineers, healthcare workers, and universities so science feels relevant to their lives and prepares them for future careers.”