Bad optics
Rep. Diana DeGette is facing what 9NEWS anchor Kyle Clark called the most serious primary challenge of her nearly 30-year career. Now, her decision to decline an interview on Next with Kyle Clark is drawing criticism from voters in Colorado.
Clark announced the news this week, stating: “Rep. Diana DeGette (D-CO) is facing the most serious primary challenge of her nearly 30-year career. DeGette is declining to appear on 9NEWS and take questions.”
The announcement stood out because DeGette’s opponents have agreed to participate. Wanda James is scheduled to appear on Next, while challenger Melat Kiros will also sit down with Clark.
The reaction online amongst Denverites was swift, with a discussion on r/Denver attracting plenty of attention, and most of it echoing the same disgruntled talking points.
“Time for Her to Go”
Many commenters viewed DeGette’s decision as a refusal to engage with voters during a competitive primary.
“Time for her to go,” one commenter wrote in one of the thread’s most popular responses.
Another voter said the move had changed their view of the longtime congresswoman.
“I’ve been in Denver for over 20 years and voted for her every single time. The last time was the last time,” they wrote.
Others argued that candidates seeking reelection should be willing to answer tough questions, especially from a journalist known for holding politicians accountable.
“Voters need to punish debate dodgers if they want front runners to engage,” one user commented.
A large portion of the discussion centered on Clark himself. Many Denver residents praised the 9NEWS anchor’s reputation for challenging public officials regardless of party affiliation.
“Kyle out here doing the most for democracy, love that guy,” one commenter wrote.
The controversy also reignited criticism of DeGette’s lengthy tenure in Congress. Having represented Colorado’s 1st Congressional District since 1997, she is one of the state’s longest-serving elected officials.
“At some point you have to say 30 years is enough for one person,” one voter wrote.
Others tied the interview decision to broader frustrations with incumbents who they believe have become too comfortable in office.
Whether the backlash translates into votes remains to be seen. Incumbents often avoid unscripted appearances when they believe the political risk outweighs the potential reward. Still, by declining an interview with one of Colorado’s most recognizable journalists while her challengers agreed to participate, DeGette has created a new line of attack for critics.
And judging by the reaction online, much of Colorado has already noticed.
