Senator Chris Kolker is a Democratic member of the Colorado State Senate representing District 16 in Arapahoe and Jefferson Counties. Elected in 2020 to District 27 and re-elected in 2024, he was redistricted to District 16 in 2022, encompassing areas like most of Centennial, parts of Englewood, Littleton, and Greenwood Village. Notable achievements include serving as Chair of the Education Committee and membership on the Appropriations and Finance Committees; he focuses on public education, mental health services, budget transparency, and equal opportunity. A Certified Financial Planner, small business owner, and former high school social studies teacher, he founded the Rocky Mountain Chapter of 100 Men Who Care and has lived in Arapahoe County since 1999 with his wife Tara and two daughters. Raised in rural Iowa by a John Deere factory worker and school secretary, he emphasizes hard work and supporting families, entrepreneurs, and students.

Education and Political Experience

• Early Life and Professional Background: Grew up in rural Iowa working on the family farm; taught high school social studies; became a Certified Financial Planner and small business owner.
• Political Career: Sworn in January 2021 for Senate District 27; redistricted to District 16 in 2023; re-elected 2024; key roles in education policy, appropriations, and finance.