Anne Keke
DemocraticQ1 What advisory mechanisms will you implement to ensure that evidence and scientific findings play a crucial role in your policymaking process?
“I believe policymaking should be grounded in evidence, data, and real-world results, not ideology alone. As a State House representative, I will work with independent experts, local educators, healthcare professionals, scientists, and community leaders to make informed decisions that reflect both research and the needs of Aurora families. I support transparent, evidence-based policymaking with clear goals, measurable outcomes, and regular public review so taxpayers can see what is working and what is not. I also believe leaders must be willing to adjust policies when new evidence emerges. To me good policy comes from combining sound science with community input and practical experience. My focus will always be on solutions that improve lives, strengthen trust in government, and deliver results for Colorado families.”
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’s farmers and ranchers are essential to our economy, our food supply, and our way of life. As water scarcity and rising costs put increasing pressure on agriculture, we need practical, science-based solutions that help producers stay competitive while protecting our natural resources. I support investments in water conservation technology, precision agriculture, soil health programs, and drought resilience strategies that are backed by research and proven results. Colorado’s own Water Plan emphasizes the importance of supporting robust agriculture while improving long-term water sustainability. I also believe the state should strengthen partnerships with Colorado universities, agricultural experts, and local producers so policy decisions are informed by real data and on-the-ground experience, not one-size-fits-all mandates. Supporting innovation in irrigation efficiency, crop management, and fertilizer alternatives can help farmers reduce costs while conserving resources. Most importantly, we must treat farmers and ranchers as partners. Colorado succeeds when we protect both our agricultural economy and the natural resources future generations depend on.”
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 has a chance to lead the nation in responsible AI innovation — creating good-paying jobs and strengthening our clean energy economy while protecting the natural resources that define our state. I support a balanced approach to data center growth that requires strong standards for energy efficiency, water conservation, transparency, and community impact. The right balance is encouraging economic growth and technological innovation while ensuring communities are not left with higher utility costs, strained water supplies, or environmental burdens. In a water-scarce state like Colorado, growth must be sustainable and backed by evidence-based planning. Any public incentives should deliver clear benefits for Coloradans: quality jobs, investments in renewable energy and grid modernization, workforce partnerships, and protections for taxpayers and local communities. My approach would tie incentives and permitting to measurable standards and long-term accountability so companies that benefit from doing business in Colorado also contribute to Colorado’s future. Colorado can lead in innovation without compromising our values or our future.”
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 am not a health expert, but Colorado’s recent measles outbreak is a reminder that public health preparedness matters. We have also seen concerns around illnesses like hantavirus, which highlight how important it is for communities to have accurate information, strong local healthcare systems, and the ability to respond quickly to emerging health threats.
I support evidence-based policies that expand vaccination access, strengthen public health communication, and ensure families receive accurate information from trusted medical professionals. The MMR vaccine is highly effective at preventing measles, and health experts consistently point to declining vaccination rates as a major factor behind recent outbreaks. I support expanding access to preventive care through schools, community clinics, and local healthcare providers, especially in underserved communities like mine. We also need stronger investment in public health infrastructure, disease surveillance, and emergency response so communities can respond quickly to outbreaks and future health threats. Protecting public health requires transparency, clear communication, and policies grounded in science while respecting individual freedoms. At the end of the day, preventive health is about keeping children safe, protecting vulnerable neighbors, reducing long-term healthcare costs, and making sure every Colorado community is prepared for the future.”
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 is more important than ever in a world shaped by technology, public health challenges, and an overwhelming amount of information and misinformation. Students need more than facts to memorize. They need to know how to think critically, evaluate evidence, solve problems, and make informed decisions in their daily lives. Most students are naturally curious about science when it feels connected to the real world. Colorado has already made important progress with science standards that emphasize inquiry, hands-on learning, and real-world application, and we should continue building on that foundation.
I support strengthening STEM education through high-quality science instruction, career and technical education, lab opportunities, and partnerships with universities and industry. Students should have opportunities to explore pathways in healthcare, aerospace, clean energy, artificial intelligence, and other growing fields that are shaping Colorado’s economy. We should also do more to teach media literacy, data interpretation, and the scientific process itself so students can better evaluate claims, understand evidence, and participate thoughtfully in civic life. Good science education should help students become informed citizens, not just future scientists.
That commitment should continue beyond K-12 education. Colorado’s colleges and universities play a critical role in research, innovation, and workforce development. Strong partnerships between higher education, local schools, and industry can help students connect classroom learning to meaningful careers and real-world challenges. Most importantly, science education should inspire curiosity and confidence. When students see how science connects to issues like healthcare, water conservation, energy, and emerging technology, learning becomes more relevant, engaging, and empowering.”