Aaron Gutierrez, a Pueblo native and attorney, has officially launched his campaign for Colorado State Senate District 3. A former White House staffer and experienced public defender, Gutierrez is one of three Democrats vying to succeed Sen. Nick Hinrichsen in 2026.
Gutierrez, a partner at Garcia Gutierrez Law Group, brings a decade of legal experience and a personal story of resilience to his candidacy. Diagnosed with brain cancer as a freshman at Colorado College, he says the experience opened his eyes to the gaps in the healthcare system.
“It really taught me and opened my eyes regarding our healthcare system and access to healthcare,” Gutierrez said. “I did have good insurance at the time, but my parents still had to pay for a lot out of pocket. Thank God the community came together to help support me. I just know how much it costs.”
If elected, Gutierrez plans to focus on public safety, homelessness, and economic development. He emphasized the need for leadership in Pueblo County that listens to constituents and addresses the issues they face daily.
“A lot of my job is not just talking or giving speeches — it’s listening to community members and seeing the problems that they are facing,” he said. “I’ve seen firsthand problems that we are facing in the criminal justice system.”
He supports increased funding for law enforcement training to better handle tense situations and wants to address the root causes of crime through expanded access to mental health care and drug rehabilitation services.
On homelessness, Gutierrez believes in attracting investment to build more low-income housing and in creating sustainable economic growth by diversifying job opportunities in the region.
Describing himself as a “collaborator,” Gutierrez said he’s committed to working with legislators from across the state and across the aisle.
“I’m excited to work with state legislature senators and congressmen that are in the north, but I’m also going to be a voice for Pueblo,” he said. “I’m not afraid to stand my ground, but I think it’s really important to collaborate with other people. I’m about building coalitions. I think that’s how you get things done.”
Colorado Senate District 3 includes all of Pueblo County. As of July 22, Gutierrez is running in the Democratic primary alongside Charles Perko and Taylor Voss. Dana Charles is the only Republican candidate who has filed to run, according to the Colorado TRACER database.
Katie is a senior who has been on staff for three years. Her favorite type of stories to write is reviews and features. Katie’s favorite ice cream flavor is strawberry.
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