Gabe Evans

Before and after winning election last year to represent one of Colorado’s most diverse and immigrant-rich congressional districts, Republican U.S. Rep. Gabe Evans of Fort Lupton promised to help deliver a border crackdown and deportations of violent criminals, but he stopped well short of the harsh nativist rhetoric lately embraced by many in his party.

Incumbent Democratic Congresswoman Yadira Caraveo conceded Sunday to Republican State Rep. Gabe Evans, five days after the polls closed in one of the most closely-watched races in the country.

With 66% of the vote counted, Democratic Rep. Yadira Caraveo was narrowly leading Republican State Rep. Gabe Evans 50% to 48%.

Incumbent Democratic US Rep. Yadira Caraveo and Republican challenger State Rep. Gabe Evans spent the last days of their campaigns trying to win over the last undecided voters. The high-stakes, neck-and-neck race for Colorado’s 8th Congressional District could decide the balance of power in Washington.

The two candidates vying for Colorado’s 8th Congressional District seat sparred at a Sept. 30 forum over illegal immigration, the high cost of living in the district, and gun control. The virtual forum was sponsored by KUNC, Colorado Community Media, the Leagues of Women Voters of Colorado, Adams, Larimer and Greeley-Weld Counties, and El Semanario.