Jessie Danielson
DemocraticQ1 What advisory mechanisms will you implement to ensure that evidence and scientific findings play a crucial role in your policymaking process?
“Throughout my time in the legislature, I have prioritized listening to experts, researchers, impacted communities, and frontline professionals when developing policy. The best policymaking happens when decisions are grounded in evidence and informed by people with direct expertise and lived experience. I will carry that same commitment to the Secretary of State’s office.”
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?
“I grew up on a farm outside of Ault, Colorado, so I know firsthand how important Colorado’s agricultural community is to both our economy and our way of life. I’m very proud to have earned the endorsements of Voces Unidas and UFCW because of the work we have done to protect farmworkers, including the Farmworker Bill of Rights, which established critical workplace protections for the people who help power Colorado agriculture.
I also recognize that Colorado farmers are confronting enormous challenges tied to drought, water scarcity, supply chain disruptions, and rising costs. I have always supported measures as a legislator to support and promote responsible stewardship of our land and water resources. Whether it is improving water conservation, supporting climate resilience, strengthening local food systems, or ensuring working families in rural communities can thrive, I have supported it and will continue to do so as Secretary of State.”
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?
“We have already been having important conversations at the legislature about the impacts data centers will have on our communities. Experts have raised concerns about the strain large facilities can place on the electric grid and water resources, particularly in drought-prone states like Colorado. I believe any major data center development should include strong accountability measures around water consumption, energy use, and impacts on surrounding communities. There have been proposals this session focused on exactly these kinds of guardrails, including renewable energy requirements, water efficiency standards, and protections for ratepayers.”
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?
“As a Senator, I have supported policies that expand access to affordable healthcare, strengthen preventative care, and ensure families can make informed decisions based on accurate medical information.
I also believe elected leaders have a responsibility to serve as trusted voices for the public by communicating clearly, transparently, and honestly during moments of uncertainty. Whether addressing public health challenges or protecting confidence in our elections, people deserve leaders who rely on facts, evidence, and expertise.
That commitment to transparency and public trust is central to how I approach public service. As Secretary of State, I would bring that same approach to communicating with voters and ensuring Coloradans have confidence in our election systems and democratic processes.”
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 critically important in today’s world. Whether we are talking about public health, climate resilience, water conservation, or election security. As a legislator, I have always believed that public education is one of the most important investments we can make, which is why I am proud to have earned the endorsements of both AFT Colorado and the Colorado Education Association. I have a 100% voting record with CEA because I have consistently supported investments in public schools, educators, and student success throughout my time in the legislature.
What distinguishes my candidacy in this race is that I have a decades long record to point to on all of the issues raised in this survey. Throughout my career, I have worked directly on policies involving education, healthcare, workers rights, environmental sustainability, and more. I believe that experience matters, and we need someone in statewide office who has a proven progressive record on these issues. You know what I will do as Secretary of State because I have held true to our democratic values for 12 years as a Senator and Representative.”