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Jamie Jackson Selected to Replace Iman Jodeh in Colorado House

Arapahoe County Democrats voted Jamie Jackson as the new representative for House District 41 in Aurora, Colorado. She replaces Iman Jodeh, who was appointed to the state Senate earlier this month.

Jackson’s victory came quickly during a Democratic vacancy committee election on January 22, 2025. With 10 votes, she secured the position in the first round. Anne Keke, President of the Aurora Public School Board, received 7 votes, while housing advocate Aly DeWills-Marcano received 2 votes. All 19 members of the committee participated in the election, and Jackson’s simple majority win officially filled the vacancy left by Jodeh’s Senate appointment.

Jamie Jackson’s Path to the Colorado House

Jackson’s selection marks a significant shift for House District 41. Having earned the trust of local leaders and lawmakers alike, Jackson steps into a role with substantial expectations. Her platform is focused on equity, justice, and access to healthcare—issues that resonated deeply with those who voted for her.

Jackson’s career speaks to her commitment to public service. As the Chief Operating Officer of The Naloxone Project, she’s led efforts to combat the opioid crisis in Colorado. By working with hospitals to distribute life-saving overdose reversal medication, Jackson has established herself as a staunch advocate for public health. She previously served at the Colorado Children’s Campaign and held positions as a probation officer in Denver, which provides her with a unique perspective on both social and criminal justice issues.

“Equity, opportunity, justice, and service—those values have always guided me,” Jackson said ahead of the vote. “You’ll see these values reflected in my work as your representative.”

Jamie Jackson Colorado House

A Strong Advocate for Labor Rights

Jackson’s political platform is also deeply rooted in worker’s rights. She voiced her firm support for labor unions on Wednesday, stating that she intends to fight for legislation that makes unionization easier.

In particular, she aims to eliminate barriers for workers to form unions and secure fair wages. This stance is especially timely as a contentious bill aimed at changing union formation laws is currently working its way through the Colorado Legislature.

“I’ll make it easier for workers to unionize,” Jackson emphasized, “and I will fight for fair wages and dignity in the workplace.”

Her emphasis on labor rights aligns her with progressives who view worker protections as vital for the well-being of Colorado’s working class.

Jackson’s Diverse Background in Public Service

Jackson’s diverse career in public service offers a glimpse into her multidimensional approach to politics. She has worked with a range of organizations focused on issues like criminal justice reform, public health, and re-entry services for formerly incarcerated individuals.

Her work with The GEO Group, which operates private prisons, was a point of contention during her campaign. Jackson, however, clarified her role, stating that she worked to help reintegrate formerly incarcerated people and reduce recidivism.

“I worked to help people reintegrate successfully,” Jackson said. “I wasn’t working to punish people. I was helping them re-enter society and live successful lives.”

This nuanced experience adds another layer to Jackson’s approach to policy. As a single mother, she has firsthand experience with the challenges of balancing work and family, giving her a strong empathy for the issues affecting working-class families in her district.

Support from Lawmakers and Local Leaders

Ahead of the election, Jackson garnered significant support from local lawmakers, including outgoing Representative Iman Jodeh. She received backing from 11 sitting lawmakers, which included a key endorsement from Jodeh herself. This backing helped solidify her position as the preferred candidate among committee members.

In her campaign, Jackson made it clear that she was ready to address critical issues facing Colorado residents, including healthcare affordability and criminal justice reform.

“I will prioritize health care and criminal justice reform as long-term goals,” Jackson said. “I will not back down from fighting for these causes.”

This message has resonated with local Democrats, further establishing Jackson as a representative who is prepared to take bold action in the state legislature.

A Rising Political Star in Aurora

Jackson’s appointment comes at a crucial time for Aurora, as the city faces a range of challenges, from affordable housing to healthcare access. Her diverse experience in both public health and criminal justice reform makes her uniquely suited to address these issues head-on.

With a strong base of support, including endorsements from influential lawmakers and community leaders, Jackson is poised to make an immediate impact in the Colorado House. Her path to the legislature reflects her dedication to public service and the core values of equity, justice, and opportunity that have defined her career.

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