Dave Rein
DemocraticQ1 What advisory mechanisms will you implement to ensure that evidence and scientific findings play a crucial role in your policymaking process?
“I plan on relying strongly on data and evidence-based practices although not to the exclusion of the personal experiences of our community.”
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?
“There are parts of the country and internationally that have adopted less-water intensive irrigation practices. For example, center-pivot irrigation systems have been adopted to pull irrigation lines that water directly onto the ground rather than spraying it in the air and subject to greater evaporation. We should be able to make sure that our farmers have the best information and practices available.”
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?
“Data centers should be required to act as a community partner as they will change the character of the surrounding area. This includes the use of resources and noise generated from backup generators.”
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?
“We need to continue to support efforts to help inform our community that measles can cause serious conditions such as brain swelling and hospitalization and even death in some cases while explaining that vaccines are about 97% effective at preventing measles. We should be upfront about the side effects but not allow misinformation to minimize the effectiveness of the vaccines.”
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?
“We should encourage schools to offer more pathways to allow students to explore STEM disciplines.”