The Arapahoe County Democrats will be holding a vacancy election Wednesday evening to replace Sen. Iman Jodeh, D-Aurora, who moved from the House to the Senate following former Sen. Janet Buckner’s departure. 

Three candidates are running to represent the district, which encompasses southern Aurora.  

Aly DeWillis-Marcano, a former staffer for U.S. Rep. Jason Crow and President of Arapahoe Young Democrats, says she is running because she grew up in the area and wants to see it continue to thrive. 

“From our vibrant immigrant and refugee communities to the thriving food and art culture, this is a place of resilience, creativity, and diversity,” she said. “Our district is facing threats to our community and our rights from the White House and from Aurora City Hall, but together, we can fight to keep Colorado and Aurora safe for everyone — especially working-class families who’ve called it home for generations.”

The wife of former Aurora City Council member Juan Marcano, DeWillis-Marcano says her top priorities if elected are healthcare, affordable housing, education, and improving accessibility for those with disabilities. 

DeWillis-Marcano is endorsed by former Rep. David Ortiz, D-Littleton, Arapahoe County Treasurer Mike Westerberg and Rep. Mandy Lindsay, D-Aurora. 

Aurora School Board president Anne Keke announced her candidacy earlier this month, saying she has the background and experience to advocate for a diverse coalition of constituents. 

Keke, a native of Cote d’Ivoire, came to the U.S. in 2001 and has extensive experience in the criminal justice field. 

“I believe every Coloradan deserves an equitable chance to thrive,” Keke said in a Facebook post announcing her candidacy. “As a single mother, immigrant, educator, and advocate, I understand the challenges our families face. I am committed to bringing solutions that address our housing crisis, promote quality education, drive economic prosperity, and ensure the safety and well-being of all our communities. It is time for bold leadership in District 41.”

Jamie Jackson is the COO of The Naloxone Project and previously served as COO of the Colorado Children’s Campaign. 

Jackson has served on several boards and committees, including the Arapahoe County Justice Coordinating Committee, Colorado Black Women for Political Action, and the Racial Equity Subcommittee.

“I’ve had the privilege of serving my neighbors and advocating for legislation that makes a real difference in people’s lives,” Jackson said. “This candidacy is about building on that foundation. Together, we can formalize and expand the work we’ve already started to create meaningful change in the lives of those who call HD41 home.”

The vacancy election meeting begins at 6:30 p.m. on January 23, with the election portion slated to begin at 7:40.