Manny Rutinel is the projected winner of the Democratic primary for Colorado’s 8th District, setting up a November showdown against Rep. Gabe Evans (R-Colo.) in the crucial swing district.

Rutinel, a state representative, defeated Shannon Bird, a recent former member of the state General Assembly, in another win for the progressive movement over the Democratic establishment.

During the campaign, Bird touted her effectiveness as a legislator while Rutinel criticized her 2025 vote against a bill disallowing local police to cooperate with federal immigration authorities.

“Shannon Bird sold out Latino families,” a Rutinel attack ad said.

Moderate groups affiliated with the New Democrat Coalition and the Blue Dog Coalition endorsed Bird, while the Congressional Hispanic Caucus backed Rutinel, who touted his Latino heritage as a good fit for a district that’s 40% Latino.

Rutinel also got a boost from the artificial intelligence industry faction that favors new safety regulations.

Still, Rutinel and Bird aren’t incredibly different. Both served in the state legislature, shared similar life stories about being raised by single moms, and agree on most issues.

The big question will be whether Rutinel can beat Evans in November. The race is a toss-up that will help determine whether Democrats retake the House of Representatives next year.

Evans is an Army veteran with a relatively low profile in the House, where he’s serving his first term. He’ll likely attack Rutinel for his past animal welfare advocacy; the district is home to major meat and dairy producers, including the domestic headquarters of the international meatpacking conglomerate JBS.

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