As Election Day results come in for Denver’s mayoral contest, two more moderate candidates are headlining the16-person race. Kelly Brough, the President and CEO of the Denver Metro Chamber of Commerce, and Mike Johnston, a former state senator, are gaining the most votes, leaving behind the field of more progressive candidates.
Those vying for Denver’s top mayoral post face daunting challenges such as a rising crime rate, growing homeless encampments and dizzying fast growth. Voters want an experienced leader capable of handling these tough decisions, the way former Denver mayor Federico Peña did when he left the post to become the US Energy Secretary under President Bill Clinton.
The moderate candidates largely favor solutions such as enforcing the ban on homeless encampments, further funding the police and encouraging businesses to stay. Progressive contenders, such as Leslie Herod and Lisa Calderón, are pushing for rent control, more diverse businesses and safe injection sites.
This unique field includes an engineer, former boxer, investment banker and formerly involved with the Crenshaw Mafia Gang. They all bring a different point of view to bear. The outcome of the election will be closely watched – whoever takes the Mayor’s seat may become the next Senator or Governor.
The Denver Metro Chamber of Commerce is a non-profit organization that serves as the voice of Denver’s business community. It provides valuable business leadership and promote the city’s economic growth. Founded in 1885, the Chamber works to promote the regional economy, protect the environment, improve public infrastructure and attract new businesses across the greater metro Denver area.
Kelly Brough is a highly accomplished leader skilled in developing sustainable public-private partnerships, leveraging relationships with public entities, and promoting increasingly competitive Greater Denver metro area. A business veteran, she has worked to connect citizens, government, and businesses while serving as President and CEO of the Denver Metro Chamber of Commerce since 2016.
Mike Johnston is an experienced politician, having served as a Colorado State Senator from 2009-2019. He also ran for the Democratic nomination for the 2020 governor’s race and has gained two terms as a state senator. Johnston is a strong advocate of gun safety and has worked to create educational opportunities and provide alternative pathways to success in the criminal justice system. He is a respected leader and has a track record of successfully working with the community, legislators, and local organizations.
