Cleave Alan Simpson Jr., born in 1960 or 1961, is a Republican state senator representing Colorado State Senate District 6, which includes counties such as Alamosa, Archuleta, Conejos, Costilla, Dolores, La Plata, Mineral, Montezuma, Montrose, Ouray, Rio Grande, Saguache, San Juan, and San Miguel. A fourth-generation farmer and rancher from the San Luis Valley in Alamosa, Colorado, he serves as general manager of the Rio Grande Water Conservation District. He was elected Senate Minority Leader in June 2025 and focuses on rural Colorado issues, including agriculture, water, and education. Simpson won his seat in 2020 with 60.12% of the vote and was re-elected in 2024 with 55.91%.

Education and Political Experience

• Education: Graduated from the Colorado School of Mines in 1984.
• Political Experience: Served on the Adams State University Board of Trustees , including as past chairman; represented former Senate District 35 prior to 2023 redistricting. Active in organizations like the Rio Grande Basin Roundtable, Colorado Water Congress, Colorado Farm Bureau, and Action 22. Previously involved in the Farm Service Agency County Committee, Alamosa County Planning Commission, Alamosa Mosquito Control District, and Alamosa School District Accountability Committee.