Burcham, a first-time candidate, is ahead of Thomas by 7 points, 53.41% to 46.59%, out of some 12,000 votes counted so far, according to the state’s initial tally.

The winner of the GOP contest will face Rep. Robert Marshall, the incumbent Democrat, in November to represent the district.

House District 43 district encompasses County Line Road on the north in the Highlands Ranch area and includes Quebec/Bluffs Regional Park Trail on the east; Wildcat Reserve/McArthur Ranch Blvd on the south; and, Santa Fe Drive (US 85) on the west.

Republicans dominate the district. As of the latest county, there are 19,145 Republicans, 13,566 Democrats and 31,267 unaffiliated voters in the district.

Both Republican candidates are campaigning on similar themes.

Burcham said he would use existing funds to provide law enforcement agencies with more resources. He said he plans to repeal House Bill 19-1124 and House Bill 1100, measures that prohibit local government agencies and police from working with the federal government on illegal immigration.

“We need a fresh conservative voice representing Highlands Ranch at the Capitol,” Burcham said. “The status quo of career politicians controlled by special interest groups has led to inflation, open borders, rising crime, higher taxes and political gridlock.”

Thomas said she will prioritizes public safety and has campaigned on affordability, parental control, education and property taxes.

“I’ve reduced property taxes six times, made schools safer by funding security measures, school resource officers and physical and mental health supports,” Thomas said. “I have direct legislative experience addressing water quality, judicial services and coroner standards.”