At 29, Melat Kiros makes history as first woman from Gen Z elected to Congress

A path from Denver to politics

In 2023, a New York City law firm dismissed her after she refused to withdraw an open letter addressing campus antisemitism and pro-Palestinian protests. Kiros condemned antisemitism while arguing that it should not be conflated with questions about Israel’s legitimacy.

After the firing, she began considering politics more seriously. She returned to Colorado and worked as communications director for John Padora’s 2024 congressional campaign, then thought about running after President Trump won a second term.

Campaign built on generational change

Kiros defeated DeGette in the July Democratic primary. Her campaign emphasized affordability and opposition to U.S. support for Israel, while presenting DeGette as too closely tied to corporate donors.

DeGette challenged Kiros’ lack of political experience, warning voters against sending an inexperienced candidate to Washington. Kiros’ win formed part of a spring and summer wave of leftwing insurgent victories that sharpened debate about the Democratic Party’s future.

While pursuing a doctoral degree in public policy after moving back to Colorado, Kiros worked as a barista. As her campaign gathered momentum, she cut back her shifts and stayed with a friend at below-market rent; she has paused her PhD studies.

A young member prepares

Kiros was born the year DeGette began her long congressional career. She said she sees her youth as an advantage, and told CBS News that Rep. Frost had helped her understand what entering Congress at a young age would be like.

Kiros also described practical guidance from progressive incumbent members, including advice about living close enough to reach the Capitol quickly. She said younger lawmakers are being helped to prepare rather than spend as much time learning the institution after arrival.

The Constitution sets the minimum age for House service at 25 and Senate service at 30, leaving most of Gen Z ineligible. Future Caucus research counted 117 Gen Z congressional candidates for the 2026 midterms, but only 24 appeared on November ballots; the group was less likely than other age groups to reach the general election.